Inspirational Stories QCH Foundation ottawa

Increased Demand in Our Community for Urgent Mental Health Services

Just three months after opening the doors to Queensway Carleton Hospital’s (QCH) new inpatient unit located in The Barbara Crook and Dan Greenberg Mental Health Centre, the team has already been seeing a significant increase in the need for urgent mental health care.

Thanks to the generosity of QCH Foundation donors, the newly renovated inpatient unit was officially opened in December 2022. It’s a welcome change for the staff and patients alike as the space is bright and airy, flooded with lots of natural light which inspires hope and healing.

“We are noticing our patients are a lot more settled in the new unit,” confirms Sherri. “In the old unit everyone was doubled up in rooms. We are finding that with the private rooms and three times the space in common areas, it’s so much more therapeutic – and just makes you feel better.”

Along with private rooms, the new inpatient unit provides patients with access to 1:1 therapy sessions which focus on things like coping skills and cognitive behavioural therapy. Additionally, having a recreation therapist and full-time occupational therapist in the unit offers patients the opportunity to take part in group programs including bingo games, beanbag toss, Pictionary, art classes, and meditation and yoga workshops.

For Sherri, being part of the opening of the new Barbara Crook and Dan Greenberg Mental Health Centre is something she will never forget. She is truly grateful to all the donors who gave generously to the Hopes Rising Campaign, raising $6 million for this important community project

“I remember when the first group of patients were moving from the old unit into the new one – they were just in awe when they walked in,” she remarks. “Just to see the look on their faces – it was really rewarding to be able to see that absolute look of excitement. It was a highlight of my career.”

Renovations are now underway to the outpatient unit in the Barbara Crook and Dan Greenberg Mental Health Centre.”
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The original mental health floor at QCH is currently under construction for outpatient services, with the entire renovation and expansion of The Barbara Crook and Dan Greenberg Mental Health Centre set to be completed later this year.

If you would like to support the purchase of specialized furniture and equipment for the Mental Health Centre, please make a donation online at qchfoundation.ca/mhequipment or contact the Foundation office at 613-721-4731 or by email to qchfound@qch.on.ca.