Mental disorder no longer split into separate classifications

The definition of mental disorder is changed by the MHA 2007, as of 3/11/08, so that it is no longer split into the four classifications of mental illness, psychopathic disorder, mental impairment and severe mental impairment.

s1 now states that:

"mental disorder" means any disorder or disability of the mind.

There are, however, two exceptions. See these pages for details:

• Abnormally aggressive or seriously irresponsible conduct is only a consideration for learning disability (not personality disorder) - Learning disability is not mental disorder unless associated with this conduct.

• Some exclusions to definition of mental disorder have been removed - dependence on alcohol or drugs is still excluded.