A Focus on Absconding in Mental Health: A Review of the Literature

This paper reviews the literature concerning absconding in mental health. Absconding from mental health in patient units remains a concern and challenge to the therapeutic work conducted in the ward and can result in adverse events such as injury, suicide and even harm to others especially relatives. Careful assessment of absconding risk must occur upon admission and appropriate care interventions implemented. The literature offers insights into ways to promote a therapeutic environment and understand reasons why mental health consumers leave in patient units without pre arranged leave. If clinicians view absconding form the consumer’s perspective and consider risk management interventions can be implemented in partnership with the consumer. The clinical aim should be to plan care within a therapeutic alliance with the mental health consumer.