This chapter is about how you can resolve your concerns, questions, complaints and claims about the mental health care and treatment you have received, and about other services you might receive that may or may not be related to your mental health conditionThe term mental health condition is a broad term that refers to symptoms that may be caused by life events, genetic factors or birth defects. This condition can be temporary, episodic or lifelong. A mental health condition can include mood, anxiety, personality, psychotic and compulsive disorders. It includes, but is not limited to, those conditions and symptoms recognised as constituting mental illness under the Mental Health Act 2007 (NSW). More.
There is information about whether you should make a formal complaint or take legal action to resolve your issue, and then advice for make an effective formal complaint.
You can then read about which organisations deal with specific complaints and the complaints options that are available.
There is also information about advocacy . That is, about who you can get to help you, support you and speak for you if you complain or ask questions about a service or treatment you have received.
There is also information about where to get legal help , including information about the range of organisations that may be able to provide free or low cost legal advice and representation.
There is a section about mediation and what is called ‘alternative dispute resolution ’. It outlines ways to resolve disputes outside the courts and the legal system.
Updated January 4, 2021
