Anyone, at anytime, can experience a mental health crisis
At some point in their life, one in three Canadians will experience the darkness, loneliness, and despair of a mental illness. Adult mental health care is a priority at North York General – indeed, we have seen the demand for mental health care in our Emergency Department (ED) increase by 20 per cent since 2020.
We know that the highest need for anyone experiencing a mental health crisis is to feel physically and emotionally safe. During the course of a lifetime, anyone, at anytime, can experience a mental health crisis. At North York General, we’re ensuring patients receive compassionate support in the most appropriate care setting.
Through your generous support, you will help revitalize our Adult Mental Health Unit. We know that patients who have a supportive, positive environment throughout their treatment, from the moment they walk through our door to the day they return home, are more likely to continue their recovery. You are helping to make that a reality.
Together we will:
Create three additional beds in our Adult Mental Health Unit – that’s increasing from 24 to 26 in acute care, and moving from 5 to 6 beds in our Psychiatric Intensive Care Unit.
In addition, we’re ensuring essential cosmetic and functional upgrades are provided to the space, which was last upgraded in 2007.
These functional and cosmetic upgrades include:
- Refreshed welcome areas, that feature soft colours, subdued lighting, and comfortable furniture;
- Updated wayfinding and signage, ensuring patients, their loved ones and other guests, can find their way around seamlessly;
- Enhanced Dining and Activity Room, with updated cabinets, flooring and appliances;
- Updated inpatient rooms to ensure the utmost safety whilst designed with modern details;
- Much-needed upgrades to the HVAC, widows and lighting systems;
- New fire alarms and smoke detectors;
- Modern call system.
More patients are relying on NYGH for mental health care
North York General is reducing barriers and providing access to care that meets the diverse and growing needs of our patients and community population.
But quality care relies on quality spaces.
Nearly one-third of patients in the Adult Mental Health Unit are admitted via the Charlotte & Lewis Steinberg Emergency. As patients are moved from the ED to the Adult Mental Health Unit, it is imperative that they experience a feeling of safety, security, comfort, and privacy.
Imagine inpatient rooms that are fitted with modern details designed to keep patients safe. Windows are coated with a clear film that makes them virtually unbreakable. Window coverings are housed between double-paned windows. Any handles in the room are flush against the wall, and the sprinklers in the ceiling are of a special design. These details are thoughtful and compliant with current mental health safety standards to protect patients against self-harm.
Imagine halls, offices, and common areas with upgraded HVAC and lighting systems, new fire alarms and smoke detectors offer increased safety and security for everyone. In addition, a modern call system allows staff to rapidly respond to any urgent needs.
Imagine a warm, refreshed welcome area that features soft colours, subdued lighting, and comfortable furniture. Updated wayfinding and signage and self-serve meals in the refreshed Dining and Activity Room, equipped with new cabinets, flooring, and appliances.
Imagine this safe and secure place to heal. Our patients’ success hinges not only on the quality of care they receive, but also the environment in which they begin their healing journey.
Funded by donors who support mental health care ♥
With your commitment and dedication, we are realizing our dream to serve more community members, and support them every step of the way in their care journey.
Our goal is to raise $1.4 million for our new Adult Mental Health Unit. Your support will provide essential safety and cosmetic upgrades to the psychiatric intensive care and acute care spaces in the Adult Mental Health area, along with three new inpatient beds.