# What are the rules for emergency mental health admission or treatment in Kenya?

URL: https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/what-are-the-rules-for-emergency-mental-health-admission-or-treatment-in-kenya
For: Clinicians | Mental health practice | Reviewed by Independent clinical reviewer, Registered mental health clinician, Kenya | Last reviewed 8 November 2026

**Answer:** Section 15A of the Mental Health Act allows emergency admission or treatment only where there is immediate danger to the person or others, urgent care is needed to stabilise them, and following normal procedures would cause harmful delay. The next of kin must be informed within 24 hours. Emergency care must not last longer than needed to stabilise the person and in any case no more than 72 hours. Continuing care beyond that requires written consent from the supporter, representative or, for a minor, the guardian.

Sources: Kenya Law: https://new.kenyalaw.org/akn/ke/act/1989/10/eng@2023-12-11 - Kenya Law: https://new.kenyalaw.org/akn/ke/act/2017/21/eng@2022-12-31

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