Mental health care concerns answered

Mental health concerns hit a new peak in Lloydminster as wait times increase and a lack of care becomes more apparent.

Tyler Lorenz, founder and executive director of Residents in Recovery, expressed frustrations with how mental health cases are handled at Lloydminster Hospital, citing gaps in post-care support.

“We’ve sent individuals to the hospital for suicidal thoughts, but they return within hours without treatment plans,” Lorenz said.

Johan Engelke, interim director for mental health and addictions for Saskatchewan Health Authority Battlefords district, explained the process for mental health cases in emergency rooms.

Engelke outlined three thresholds for assessing patients: mild symptoms, voluntary inpatient care, and certification under the Mental Health Act.

“If certified, patients are sent to the Battlefords, as Lloydminster lacks a designated mental health facility,” Engelke explained.

Patients who are not certified can leave on their own accord after the assessment.

Engelke clarified why patients might leave the emergency room without inpatient care, emphasizing the importance of meeting specific thresholds.

“ER doctors ensure patients stay until psychiatrists can assess them if they’re deemed a danger to themselves or others,” Engelke said.

The closest mental health facility is in the Battlefords, which has 22 beds, but capacity issues can arise.

“Rarely do we see extended periods of full occupancy, but short-term capacity challenges happen,” Engelke said.

When Battlefords is full, patients are transferred to mental health beds in other cities like Saskatoon or Regina.

Lloydminster has a contract psychiatrist available 24/7, but daytime availability can be challenging due to other professional commitments.

Care in the community

If patients leave the hospital after the assessment, Lloydminster offers several outpatient services to ensure ongoing care. Engelke explained that community mental health teams are available, including community nurses, social workers, and case managers who provide follow-up care for patients needing continued support.

“They’ll make sure patients get their medications and attend any necessary appointments,” Engelke said.

For those needing additional counselling, Lloydminster has an adult community services program with psychologists and mental health counsellors.

“If someone has suicidal thoughts but no intent to act, they may be referred for regular counselling,” Engelke added.

There is also a dedicated child and youth team that offers similar services for younger patients. The community services building, located next to the hospital, allows patients to transition directly from the ER to these programs.

While optimistic about systemic improvements, Engelke acknowledged the need for further investment in mental health services.

“There’s a lot left to do, but I feel more optimistic now than in the past,” Engelke said.

Lorenz hopes for better collaboration between hospitals and organizations like Residents in Recovery to support vulnerable individuals effectively.

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