Supporting patients with "special needs"

From individuals who were once withdrawn into their own world, lacking the ability to communicate, or frequently experiencing anxiety and panic attacks, many mental health patients have gradually stabilized their health and reintegrated into the community. Behind this transformation are the silent efforts of medical staff in accompanying patients, helping them overcome their insecurities, regain confidence, and find joy in life.

Doctors at the Psychiatric Hospital talk to and encourage patients.

One morning at Ward II, Thanh Hoa Psychiatric Hospital, Mr. H.V.D. was seen moving gently, his face calm, and chatting with others. Few would have imagined that about a month ago, he had been constantly talking excessively, wandering aimlessly, losing control of his behavior, and requiring hospitalization. Even upon admission, he had resisted and attacked medical staff.

According to head nurse Le Tri Ngoc, Mr. D. had been treated at the hospital four times. This time, he was admitted in a highly agitated state, attacking medical staff. In the early days, the patient was uncooperative with treatment. But after being given the correct medication, combined with close monitoring and regular encouragement, his condition has stabilized significantly.

Head nurse Le Tri Ngoc said: “For patients with chronic mental illnesses, treatment is a long process. In addition to medication, patients need to be monitored and encouraged to gradually stabilize their emotions and behavior.”

Here, each patient has a unique situation. Some have recently discovered mental disorders after family trauma or life pressures. Others have suffered from the illness for decades. In many cases, relapses often result in a loss of behavioral control, posing a danger to themselves or those around them. The common thread is that they all require long-term treatment and unwavering support from the medical team and their loved ones.

Besides inpatients with chronic illnesses, the Outpatient Department also frequently receives many cases of anxiety disorders, depression, chronic insomnia, emotional disorders, and behavioral disorders. Many patients only seek medical attention when their condition has severely impacted their work, studies, and family life. Dr. Nguyen Thi Kim Chi, Head of the Outpatient Department, said: “To make an accurate diagnosis, doctors must spend a lot of time talking, listening, and building trust with patients. Some patients, when they first come for examination, share almost nothing or only describe very superficial symptoms. Meanwhile, the real cause may stem from psychological trauma, life pressures, family conflicts, or long-term suppressions. Therefore, doctors must be very patient, taking the time to talk and gently prompt the patient to open up. In many cases, it takes multiple meetings to fully obtain their medical history.”

According to Dr. Chi, treating mental illness is not just about prescribing medication, but also involves counseling and guiding patients and their families to maintain a healthy lifestyle, adhere to treatment, and limit factors that increase the risk of relapse.

Dr. Dao Quang Long, Deputy Director of the Psychiatric Hospital, said: “In recent years, people's awareness of mental health has changed significantly. The number of people coming for examination and treatment is increasing. On some days, the hospital examines and treats more than 400 patients. This shows that people are paying more attention to their own mental health and that of their loved ones.”

Since 2025 alone, Thanh Hoa Psychiatric Hospital has provided outpatient examination and treatment to over 78,000 patients and inpatient treatment to over 7,000 patients. Behind these numbers are countless stories of recovery and hope for many families with loved ones suffering from mental illness.

According to Dr. Long, for patients to recover well and minimize relapse, in addition to medication, they also need the care of their families, the community, and a positive living environment. Based on this perspective, the hospital always focuses on building a friendly treatment environment, putting the patient at the center. The culture of "respect - no discrimination" is considered a guiding principle throughout the process of examination, treatment, and patient care and is implemented throughout the hospital. Medical staff regularly receive training in therapeutic communication skills, active listening skills, and appropriate behavior towards different patient groups.

Simultaneously, the hospital is stepping up training and professional development for its medical staff. It is standardizing work procedures and clearly assigning responsibilities among doctors, nurses, and orderlies. It is also developing procedures for receiving, assessing risk, monitoring, and intervening with agitated patients or those at risk of self-harm.

To meet the increasing demand for medical examination and treatment, the hospital has implemented many advanced techniques in the field of clinical psychology such as individual therapy, group therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and in-depth psychological testing. At the same time, it continues to invest in equipment, apply electronic medical records, and develop a prescription and drug interaction warning system to improve treatment effectiveness and ensure patient safety. In addition, the hospital collaborates with organizations and philanthropists to organize many meaningful activities for patients, contributing to bringing joy, sharing, and encouragement to those less fortunate.

Despite ongoing challenges regarding human resources, facilities, and the increasing pressure of patients, innovative efforts in mental health care are bringing about positive changes. Hospitals are not only places of treatment but also support systems for many patients on their journey to regaining stability, balance, and reintegration into life.

Text and photos: Thùy Linh

Source: https://baothanhhoa.vn/dong-hanh-cung-nguoi-benh-dac-biet-289863.htm