Sectioning : Compulsory admission under the Mental Health Act

This table provides an overview of the different sections of the Mental Health Act that pertain to compulsory admissions. Each section serves a distinct purpose, has its own duration, and requires different protocols and prerequisites.

Section	Purpose	Duration	Requirements	Examination Protocol
Section 2	For assessment	Up to 28 days	1. Application from an AMHP or, rarely, nearest relative. 2. Recommendations from two doctors; one being section 12-approved and one familiar with the patient.	Two doctors should ideally examine the person together with the AMHP present. Separate examinations allowed.
Section 3	For treatment	Up to 6 months	1. Application from an AMHP or, rarely, nearest relative. 2. Recommendations from two doctors; one being section 12-approved and one familiar with the patient.	Two doctors should ideally examine the person together with the AMHP present. Separate examinations allowed.
Section 4	Urgent cases to avoid delays of Section 2 admission.	Up to 72 hours	1. Application from an AMHP or, rarely, nearest relative. 2. Recommendation from one doctor, preferably familiar with the patient.	Not specified but the urgency is highlighted.
Section 136	Used by police to take someone to a place of safety for evaluation.	Until examination is concluded (Variable)	Police involvement. The person...

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