MONITORING PSYCHIATRIC INSTITUTIONS accepted.” 11 It was mentioned that in practice it is possible to reduce or even remove the use of involuntary treatment by learning de-escalation techniques that allow the person to regain lucidity without medication. When a treatment is administered, the calming effect can lead to difficulty communicating and result in treatment being pursued without consent. To avoid this vicious circle, all possible measures must be put in place to understand the will and preferences of the person and avoid any forced treatment. It is therefore essential to have enough medical staff with the appropriate training to anticipate risks and avoid crisis situations. It was also pointed out that access to activities, which are lacking in so many institutions, is a factor that can minimise restlessness and prevent crisis situations. “Violent medical practices, such as forced electroshocks and forced drugging do not constitute help or care, nor do they have a legitimate purpose. They are discriminatory and harmful practices that can cause severe injury, pain and suffering as well as deep fear and trauma for the victims. There is an urgent need to recognise the severe harm done and the suffering inflicted on the victims.” Hege Orefellen, World Network of Users and Survivors of Psychiatry 11 “Dignity must prevail” – An appeal to do away with non-consensual psychiatric treatment, World Mental Health Day, 10 October 2015, http://www.ohchr.org/en/ NewsEvents/Pages/DisplayNews.aspx?NewsID=16583&LangID=E 21