of learning and relationship skills, acquisition of specifc competences and improvement of self‑image. It is also desirable to ofer the patients educa‑ tion and suitable work. Special attention should be paid to ensuring continuity of treatment, which consists of both pharmacotherapy and a wide range of rehabilitative and therapeutic activities. Such treatment is not designed to be turned on or of at a moment’s notice; moving mentally ill persons from one environment to another with a new set of rules and ending the treatment brusquely could easily prejudice their well‑being.11 Forensic treatment The forensic treatment of criminally irresponsible detainees should involve a wide range of therapeutic, rehabilitative and recreational activities – including appropriate medication and medical care. The treatment should be aimed at both controlling the symptoms of the illness and reducing the risk of re‑ofending. It should also be emphasised that the provision of therapeutic activities to persons undergoing forensic psychiatric assessment will not interfere with the assessment process; on the contrary, it can facilitate the gathering of valuable information for that purpose.12 Psychopharmacotherapy The use of medication in the treatment of mental disorders is common in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry. Most psychotropic medications have been developed for the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders or psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia. However, some medications developed for other purposes have been found to be helpful in psychiatric treatment. Examples are the use of anti‑seizure medication to treat bipolar disorders or the use of antipsychotics to treat impulse‑control problems. Psychopharmacotherapy may be used alone or in conjunction with psycho‑ therapy to treat mental disorders.13 11. CPT/Inf (2006)26. 12. CPT/Inf (2009)24. 13. Sadock B. J., Sadock V. and Sussman N: Kaplan and Sadock’s Pocket Handbook of Psychiatric Drug Treatment, 4th edn, Philadelphia (2005). Prison health care and medical ethics Page 34