If you have severe psychotic symptoms, you may need to be admitted to a hospital to have care supervised by a psychiatrist (a doctor who specializes in identifying and treating mental health conditions). For a small number of people, a stay in hospital may last several months. However, modern medicines and better community-based services mean that far fewer people have to spend as much time in hospital. If you don't wish to have treatment but your doctor thinks you need it, it's possible that she/he will insist you stay in hospital under the mental health legislation. However, this will usually only be used if there is a risk to your health or safety, or that of others, if you don't receive hospital treatment.
Attribution: BUPA