When can mental health facilities use restraints and seclusion in Illinois?

Article written by Illinois Attorney Kevin O’Flaherty

In this article, we answer the question: when can illinois mental health facilities use restraints and seclusion in order to prevent recipients from harming themselves or others? We also answer the following:

• What is the definition of “restraining” in the context of Illinois mental health treatment?
• What are the rules for mental health facilities’ use of restraints in Illinois?
• What is the definition of “seclusion” in the context of Illinois mental health treatment?
• When can an Illinois mental health facility seclude a patient?

For more on the rights of mental health patients, check out our article: Rights of Mental Health Treatment Recipients in Illinois.

What is the definition of “restraining” in the context of Illinois mental health treatment?

“Restraining” refers to restricting a recipient’s ability to move a certain part of the body. This can mean straps, jackets, mitts, being pinned down by another person, etc. Brief physical force in emergency situations to prevent a person from harming another person doesn’t usually count as a restraint.

What is the definition of seclusion in the context of Illinois mental health…