What does Florida Statute 394.459, F.S. guarantee for individuals with mental illness?

Florida Statute 394.459, F.S. emphasizes the importance of individual dignity and the necessity for appropriate treatment for persons with mental illness. This statute outlines the rights of these individuals, notably ensuring that they are treated with respect and dignity while receiving necessary mental health services. It recognizes the need for humane treatment and the acknowledgment that individuals with mental illnesses should have their autonomy respected within the treatment context.

The statute speaks to the understanding that treatment should not only address the clinical needs of individuals but also uphold their personal dignity. This reflects a broader commitment to ethical standards in healthcare and mental health services, advocating for a system that respects individuals as whole persons rather than merely as patients. As such, this choice encapsulates the fundamental rights guaranteed under this specific statute.