Inpatient Psychiatric Facilities
Know Your Rights!
Inpatient Psychiatric Facilities:
A Rights Guide for Individuals Under 18
A publication of the Protection & Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness (PAIMI) Program.
The purpose of this brochure is to inform, not advise. If you have questions about this information, please contact your attorney. You can also contact an advocate with the PAIMI Program.
You have rights!
If you are under the age of 18 and receiving inpatient psychiatric treatment in South Dakota, you have certain rights guaranteed by state law. Continue reading to learn more about what these rights are!
If you feel that any of your legal rights have been denied, or if you have questions about your rights, please contact Disability Rights SD at 1-800-658-4782.
Some of these rights may be limited or denied for treatment or safety reasons. If you do not know why your rights are being limited or denied, you may ask for an explanation from staff, or reach out to DRSD with questions.
Dignity & Respect:
- You have the right to be treated with dignity and respect.
- You have the right to live in a safe and clean environment.
- You have the right to be free from abuse and restraints.
- You have the right to refuse to be photographed.
- You have the right to privacy.
- You have the right to talk to others in private.
Treatment:
- You have the right to ask questions about your treatment and participate in your own treatment plan.
- You have the right to view your own personal records.
- You have the right to receive medical treatment if you are sick.
- You have the right to refuse experimental procedures and certain medications.
Personal Rights:
- You have the right to make and receive phone calls.
- You have the right to practice, or not practice, your religion.
- You have the right to send and receive mail.
- You have the right to have people visit you.
- You have the right to access and spend your own money.
- You have the right to wear your own clothes and keep your own things.
Contact:
Disability Rights South Dakota
1-800-658-4782 or 605-224-8294
www.drsdlaw.org