One of our negligence claims against a public mental health facility involved an avoidable – and unsuccessful – suicide attempt leading to a brain injury.

Our client – a young woman – had been made the subject of an involuntary order and hospitalised in the “PICU” (or Psychiatric Intensive Care Unit) of a large mental health facility. Psychiatric Intensive Care Units are specialist wards within mental health units that provide inpatient mental health care, assessment and comprehensive treatment to individuals who are experiencing the most acutely disturbed phase of a serious mental disorder.

Despite our client’s treating team having determined that close 15-minute observations were appropriate for her safety at the facility, she was allowed to take an unsupervised walk where she made a suicide attempt by means of hanging. Her suicide attempt was unsuccessful but she was left with catastrophic injuries including traumatic brain injury. Negligence proceedings were commenced against the hospital for breaching its duty of care to our client and failing to keep her safe whilst under their care.

Before the suicide attempt, our client had been living independently in the community and had a responsible job of significant longevity. The injury sustained by the suicide attempt resulted in her being no longer able to work and requiring gratuitous care with her daily living activities.

We successfully settled our client’s claim for an amount that compensated her for her pain and suffering, medical expenses, loss of income and assistance.

Looking for a Lawyer Specialising in Mental Health Law? Contact Catherine Henry Lawyers

If you or a close family member have experienced potential negligent mental health treatment, our dedicated team of expert health and medical lawyers is here to help.

For a confidential discussion, do not hesitate to contact our caring, compassionate team on 1800 874 949, or fill in the form below, and we will be in touch.