IMH Revolutionises Mental Health Care With Ward Overhaul

Singapore’s Institute of Mental Health (IMH) is transforming mental health care with a significant makeover of its wards.

The aim is to serve patients better and address their psychosocial needs.

The revamped wards are designed to help patients return to society.

The move is a key part of a shift towards community-based care.

IMH is committed to providing a comprehensive approach to mental health services backed by solid evidence.

They merge medical treatment with tailored programmes, aiming to offer a supportive and inclusive space for those seeking mental health aid.

With years of experience in mental health care, IMH has seen firsthand the positive impact of a more personalised approach to treatment.

They believe that by focusing on the individual needs of patients, they can help them regain a sense of normalcy more effectively.

Drawing from their extensive experience, IMH advises other institutions aiming for similar transformations to prioritise patient empowerment.

They suggest focusing on creating an environment that fosters independence and social reintegration, along with adequate medical treatment.

According to a 2019 report by the World Health Organisation, only 1 in 10 people needing mental health services in low-income countries can access them.

Singapore’s IMH is trying to change that statistic, one word at a time.

Key Takeaways

• IMH has overhauled 11 acute wards in its biggest refurbishment project since 1993.
• The remodelling of the wards aims to help patients regain control of their lives and emotions.
• The refurbished wards include Stepping Stones Rehabilitation Centre and Serenity Centre.
• IMH aims to transition from institutional-based care to community-based care.

Enhanced Patient Experience Through Ward Renovations

Significantly, the ward renovations at IMH have greatly improved the patient experience, providing enhanced facilities and opportunities for recovery and rehabilitation.

The focus on patient well-being and creating a therapeutic environment is evident in the remodelled wards.

The Stepping Stones Rehabilitation Centre, a 100-bed facility, offers an eight-week programme by nurses and allied health professionals.

Patients work on personal goals such as independent living and job preparation, with opportunities for work trials within the hospital.

The Serenity Centre, an addiction medicine ward, addresses the psychological, emotional, and behavioural aspects of addiction through a comprehensive programme that includes aftercare planning in the community.

These renovations align with IMH’s commitment to transitioning from institutional-based care to community-based care, allowing patients to engage in activities like meal preparation and gardening.

The enhanced facilities and focus on patient well-being ensure a positive and supportive environment for recovery and rehabilitation.

Integrating Psychosocial Needs in Refurbished Wards

The refurbished wards at IMH have successfully integrated psychosocial needs, providing a holistic approach to mental health care.

This approach is crucial in improving patient well-being and promoting holistic healing.

The integration of psychosocial needs in the refurbished wards is evident in the following ways:

1. Holistic Treatment Programs:

• The wards offer comprehensive treatment programmes that address not only the medical symptoms but also the psychological, emotional, and social aspects of mental health conditions.
• These programmes include therapy sessions, counselling, and group activities that promote self-expression, emotional support, and social interaction.

2. Patient-Centered Care:

• The refurbished wards prioritise the individual needs and preferences of each patient, ensuring that their psychosocial needs are addressed through personalised care plans.
• This patient-centred approach fosters a sense of belonging and empowerment, allowing patients to participate actively in their healing journey.

Stepping Stones Rehabilitation Centre: A Path to Community Reintegration

Stepping Stones Rehabilitation Centre offers an innovative approach to community reintegration for mental health patients.

This 100-bed facility, created by the merging of two wards, provides an eight-week programme by nurses and allied health professionals.

The programme aims to build resilience and develop essential skills for independent living and job preparation.

Through personalised goal setting, patients are empowered to regain control of their lives and emotions.

Additionally, Stepping Stones residents have opportunities for work trials within the hospital, further enhancing their skills and confidence.

This unique approach recognises the importance of addressing both the medical and psychosocial needs of patients and ensuring a holistic recovery process.

Serenity Centre: Addressing Addiction With Comprehensive Care

Serenity Centre offers a comprehensive approach to addressing addiction, combining medical and psychological interventions to support patients in their journey towards recovery.

The centre aims to provide a holistic approach to addiction treatment, recognising that addiction is a complex issue that requires a multi-faceted approach.

Here are two key aspects of the Serenity Centre’s addiction treatment methods:

– Medical interventions: Serenity Centre provides detoxification beds for patients who require medical support in safely withdrawing from substances. This includes 24/7 medical monitoring and support to manage withdrawal symptoms and ensure the safety and well-being of patients.

– Psychological interventions: The Centre also offers rehabilitation beds where patients undergo a programme that addresses the psychological, emotional, and behavioural aspects of addiction. This includes individual and group therapy sessions, cognitive-behavioural therapy, and psychoeducation to help patients develop coping mechanisms and prevent relapse.

Transitioning From Institutional to Community-Based Mental Health Care

As IMH strives to enhance mental health care, the institution is actively working towards transitioning from institutional-based care to a more community-based approach.

This shift recognises the importance of community integration and patient empowerment in the recovery process.

The refurbished wards at IMH now provide opportunities for patients to engage in activities that promote independence and connection with the community.

Patients are encouraged to participate in tasks such as meal preparation and gardening, fostering a sense of purpose and self-reliance.

IMH is also exploring the possibility of allowing some patients to attend day programmes and further facilitating their integration into the community.

By focusing on managing acute symptoms as well as cognitive and psychosocial problems, IMH is paving the way for a more holistic and inclusive approach to mental health care that empowers patients to reclaim their lives and thrive within their communities.

Conclusion

In a surprising twist of fate, the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) in Singapore has revolutionised mental health care through its extensive ward overhaul.

By addressing patients’ psychosocial needs and empowering them to regain control of their lives, IMH has created a truly transformative experience.

With revamped wards facilitating patient engagement in various activities and promoting community-based care, IMH is leading the way in providing comprehensive and holistic mental health services.

This groundbreaking approach marks a turning point in the field, challenging traditional norms and paving the way for a brighter future in mental health care.