ED Mental
Health Campaign
Changing Our Approach to Mental Health
Richmond Hospital’s Emergency Department (ED) is open to the public 24 hours a day, seven days a week, prepared to respond to both critical physical conditions, such as heart attacks or appendicitis, and mental health concerns.
For patients with physical symptoms, the ED is designed to triage their needs quickly and efficiently. However, the current ED environment can be overwhelming for patients experiencing mental health issues. The noise, bright lights, and constant activity may heighten anxiety and discomfort for patients who may already feel vulnerable or disoriented.
Creating the Right Environment
A thoughtfully redesigned mental health space in the existing ED will provide a calming environment where patients can receive proper care and assessment while awaiting the next step in their treatment.
This new, welcoming space will help reduce stress and anxiety, offering patients a greater sense of safety, dignity, and care. In turn, this environment will support our physicians and staff in delivering the specialized care patients experiencing mental health symptoms need to begin their recovery.
On the right: blue shaded area is the renovated mental health zone space plan
The newly designed space will feature:
Softer lighting, soundproofing, and high windows will allow natural light to flow in, creating a more calming atmosphere
A dedicated Mental Health Zone, separate from the rest of the ED, will reduce noise, crowding, and overstimulation, fostering a peaceful space for patients in crisis
Improved monitoring and clear sightlines will enable staff to respond promptly to patient needs, ensuring everyone receives the highest standard of care
From Words to Action
To create this crucial space for mental health care, we need to raise $1.38 million. Your support will help us provide patient-centred care in a newly renovated Mental Health Zone, set to open in August 2025.
By contributing, you ensure that members of our community experiencing mental health challenges can find compassionate, high-quality care in a welcoming environment designed to support their healing and well-being.
Consistent with our Fiscal Responsibility policy, a 5% contribution from all designated donations will support the Gift of Health Fund and the work of Richmond Hospital Foundation to improve care for patients and families.