Sectioning

Sectioning is the unofficial term to describe involuntary detention, hospitalization or other medical treatment for people affected by a mental disorder. The English and Welsh Mental Health Act 1983 has a number of sections that provide the necessary powers for sectioning.

To protect the interests and rights of people subject to sectioning, the act sets up the Mental Health Act Commission.

The Scottish equivalent is under the Mental Health (Scotland) Act 1984.

Involuntary commitment is the term for the similar practice under United States law.