People on acute mental health wards need access to talking therapies

This study interviewed staff, patients and carers about access to therapy on acute mental health wards. They found that staff were overworked and lacked the capacity to practice therapy. Staff also thought it may be too difficult for patients to engage with therapy: patients are in hospital for a short time only, they are distressed and might be on strong medications. However, patients often just wanted someone to talk to. The researchers developed recommendations to improve access to therapy. They suggested that psychologists need to be visible on the ward, and that clinicians need training and encouragement to practice therapy. People need mental health support in the community after they are discharged
Source: Current Awareness Service for Health (CASH) - Category: Consumer Health News Source Type: news