What is causing the increase in mental health detentions in Dumfries and Galloway?

Poverty, financial hardship, domestic abuse, and isolation are driving a surge in complex mental health cases and referrals for detention.

How much have short-term detention certificate referrals increased?

Referrals for short-term detention certificates (STDCs) have increased by 98% in the first two quarters of 2024/2025.

What challenges does the Dumfries and Galloway mental health team face?

The team faces difficulties in accessing GPs and doctors for STDC assessments, leading to increased emergency detentions.

Home / Health / Mental Health Crisis Fuels Surge in Detentions

Mental Health Crisis Fuels Surge in Detentions

9 Dec, 2025

•

Summary

Poverty and financial hardship significantly impact mental well-being.
Referrals for short-term detention certificates increased by 98%.
Complex cases involving abuse and isolation contribute to rising referrals.

Mental Health Crisis Fuels Surge in Detentions

The social care sector is grappling with escalating mental health challenges, particularly concerning the impact of poverty on individual well-being. This has led to a significant rise in referrals for services, reflecting a broader crisis within mental health support systems.

Statistics presented to councillors reveal a stark 98% increase in short-term detention certificates (STDC) compared to the previous year, with 79 such referrals documented. These certificates are a crucial pathway to detention under the Mental Health Act, highlighting the severity of cases being managed.

Factors such as financial hardship, domestic abuse, and profound isolation are identified as key contributors to the growing number of complex cases. While efforts are ongoing to mitigate these pressures, challenges remain in ensuring timely access to medical professionals necessary for these detentions.