Welcome.

We created this tour because some patients told us that at the beginning of their journey they were anxious about coming in contact with the mental health system.

At St. Paul’s Hospital, we do our best to reassure patients and their families through information, honest communication and compassion.

Many of our patients enter through the Emergency Department and pass through a similar series of steps.

Take This Tour

to learn what to expect and explore for more information.

ArrivingOur goal from the first time we meet, is to get you back to the activities and the people you love.

When you arrive at St. Paul’s Hospital, you and your family will likely go to our Emergency Department.

We define the word “family” in a very broad sense and mean it to refer to friends, partners or family members who care about you.

We see YOU before we see your illness, which means we take time to get to know you and what you care about.

AssessmentOur emergency team is calm, compassionate and experienced. We’re here to help you and your family with whatever situation you’re facing.

While you’re in the Emergency Department, you will be seen by an Emergency Physician and a Psychiatrist to do an assessment on your condition.

If you are well enough, the St. Paul’s team will connect you with mental health services in the community.

Mental health services in the community could mean a clinic, a more appropriate facility or services in your home.

If they feel you would benefit from in-hospital care, they will admit you to St. Paul’s.

StabilizationOur stabilization professionals work as a team to provide you the treatment and environment that will start you on the path to recovery.

If you are admitted to St. Paul’s Hospital, you will be taken to our Psychiatric Assessment and Stabilization Unit (PASU) where patients tend to stay for a few days.

In this secure unit, you will be cared for by a team of mental health experts and start a care plan that they develop just for you.

This is a time to rest, regain stability and start to feel better.

As part of this process, you may be certified under the provincial mental health act, which means you are required to stay with us in a designated facility during your stabilization.

Patient CareIn the St. Paul’s in-patient units, you will continue on your treatment plan and begin your path back to your work, your hobbies, and your loved ones.

Once your care team feels you’re ready, you will be transferred to an in-patient unit where you will continue your recovery.

Here you will still meet with your care team but you may also benefit from group therapy, activities and eventually, outings to aid in your recovery.

You will also work with your care team on your transition plan to continue to receive care and support following your time with us.

As part of your transition out of hospital, your care team may help you plan escorted and unescorted passes.

DischargeWe know that you would rather not be in the hospital. We will help you transition back to your life as soon as possible.

When it’s time to leave St. Paul’s Hospital, you will transition to another facility or to care in your community.

This could take the form of supported care in your home, referral to an outpatient clinic at St. Paul’s or elsewhere.

It might also mean transitioning to another mental health facility that can meet your health needs.

Everything about your discharge will be fully explained to you and your family.

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