Groves Memorial Community Hospital’s emergency department now offers patients mental health services 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
“Mental illnesses can take many forms, just as physical illnesses do,” explained Stephanie Pearsall, VP patient services/chief nursing executive at Groves.
“Mental illness affects people of all ages, education, income levels, and cultures.”
The Groves emergency department is a safe place where staff and physicians are available to speak to any individual struggling with mental health concerns and patients can walk in any day or time, officials say.
“We have access to 24-7 mental health workers who are able to speak to patients, if needed, and provide support,” Pearsall said.
Over the past year, Groves partnered with local mental health agencies to improve access and service in the emergency department.
Now a crisis worker is available to be on site through the night.
Other options are to speak to a family doctor or contact:
– Here 24/7 at www.here247.ca or 1-844-437-3247;
– Kids Help Phone at kidshelpphone.ca or 1-800-668-6868;
– Distress Line at 519-821-3760;
– Youth Support Line at 519-821-5469; and/or
– Canadian Mental Health Association at www.cmhaww.ca.
