Knowledge in the Hope of Protecting M.E. Sufferers from Unnecessary Sectioning

Here is a concise summary of the document:

  • Background:
    • The document aims to prevent unnecessary sectioning of individuals with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (M.E.), emphasizing that M.E. is a neurological, biomedical illness, not a mental health condition.
  • Preventive Measures:
    • Maintain good relations with your GP and ensure they understand M.E. as a biomedical illness.
    • Educate key figures (GPs, family, police, psychiatrists) about your medical condition and support network.
    • Have a solicitor prepared who understands the unjust nature of unnecessary sectioning.
  • Sectioning Process:
    • Typically initiated by a GP, family member, police officer, or psychiatrist concerned about a person’s mental health.
    • Authorised by two doctors and an Approved Mental Health Professional, often including the patient’s GP.
    • Can be highly subjective and misunderstood in relation to M.E.
  • Risks to M.E. Sufferers:
    • M.E. is wrongly perceived by some as a mental illness despite its classification by the World Health Organisation as neurological.
    • Sectioned patients may be pressured to undergo treatments like Graded Exercise Therapy (GET) or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which can worsen their symptoms.
  • Legal Rights:
    • Patients can refuse treatments such as GET and CBT, as they are not legally enforceable under NICE guidelines.
    • The NHS constitution guarantees the right to appropriate, personalized care and treatment.
  • In Case of Sectioning:
    • Prepare a mobile phone and charger beforehand for emergency communication.
    • Appeal the sectioning through a Tribunal, with free legal representation available.
    • Nearest relatives can apply for discharge, or a patient may appoint someone via court if needed.
  • Additional Considerations:
    • Dysphagia and food sensitivities are physical symptoms of M.E., not signs of anorexia or mental illness.
    • Children with M.E. may face misdiagnoses, including Fabricated or Induced Illness (FII), leading to unjust child protection threats.
  • Legal Resources:
    • Free legal aid and advocacy support are available through organizations like Citizen’s Advice Bureau and LawWorks.
    • Lawyers with expertise in M.E. cases are listed for reference.
  • Documented Cases:
    • Harmful outcomes from unnecessary sectioning include forced treatments, isolation, and deterioration in health.
    • Positive outcomes are rare but can involve basic needs like regular meals.
File Type: pdf
File Size: 333 KB
Categories: Carers Guidance & Resources