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PRHC mental health patients will soon be able to do something they have never been able to do – spend time outside in a purpose-built healing space where abundant natural light and fresh air will aid their treatment and recovery.
On Wednesday at the hospital, the $1.5 million donor-funded Psychiatric Intensive Care Unit Courtyard was unveiled before hospital staff, board members and foundation donors.
Featuring colourful native vegetation, seating areas in different configurations, open areas for group activities and a shaded area those who are sensitive to sunlight due to their treatment, the space, according to PRHC Foundation president Lesley Heighway, sets a new gold standard in hospital mental health care.
PRHC mental health and addictions director Jennifer Cox says the courtyard is a prime example of how far mental health awareness and treatment has come.
Heighway says foundation donors’ generosity has now seen all seven courtyards at PRHC repurposed.
According to Cox, patients will be able to access the courtyard within the next few days.
(Written by: Paul Rellinger)
