From PTSD To Crisis To BHU
Anyone struggling with mental health challenges like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) knows the severity of the condition. PTSD is the residual mental scars and side effects of someone experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. The condition is not dangerous for everyone. However, there are cases where PTSD turns into a crisis that requires immediate medical attention. At this stage, a behavioral health unit (BHU), a crucial healthcare team, can help. With several resources available, PTSD can be managed, and, in some cases, patients can be rescued from severe complications.
Get familiar with BHUs
A behavioral health unit is a specialized team within a healthcare setting that focuses on treating moderate to severe mental health challenges. The BHU is essentially a psychiatric unit but possesses the team and resources capable of dealing with an entire spectrum of mental health distress. However, this team shines when providing intensive mental health care, stabilizing individuals experiencing mental health emergencies. The BHU comprises psychologists, psychiatrists, nurses, social workers, and case managers. The team can react or respond to patients in distress, providing medication, therapy, and support to stabilize and then treat the patient.
When is it a mental health emergency?
PTSD and other mental health conditions impact everyone differently. However, there are times when the condition moves from manageable to a crisis, needing immediate support. Some people experience intrusive thoughts and suicidal ideation or psychotic symptoms, like hallucinations. Severe emotional or debilitating distress, anxiety, or depression that impacts daily function may need BHU intervention. Self-harming behaviors, harming others, reduced daily function, and inexcusable behaviors can be mental health emergencies. With the support of family members or nearby stakeholders, consider seeking help immediately.
Under the BHU hood
The medical team, such as doctors, nurses, or case managers, will assess the patient. This might involve a psychiatrist or psychologist evaluating symptoms and potential risk factors. The team will try to source any information on past mental health challenges, medications, or treatments. At the same time, the team secures the patient, removing any objects that may lead to self-harm. When necessary, the BHU facilitates constant supervision while developing an individualized treatment plan. Treatment starts as soon as possible, combining medication, psychotherapy, and other coping mechanisms to reduce the immediate effects of PTSD. Once the patient is stable, the following steps involve a long-term plan to educate the patient and provide tools to manage the condition.
Benefits beyond the emergency room
The patient stays with the BHU, facilitating a smooth transition into society. The timeline varies but will depend on team recommendations and the patient’s overall health. This advantage ensures the patient receives the appropriate care. Other benefits include relapse prevention planning, aftercare, and tools for the patient to have a better quality of life. A BHU has the resources to ensure the patient receives the exact care based on the mental health concern.
Take charge of your mental health journey
PTSD is a potentially severe mental health condition that can turn into a crisis. If left untreated, a patient or loved one can be severely impacted. Consider receiving immediate help from a BHU. With a team of experts, therapists, doctors, and other support staff, the patient will receive excellent care. A BHU takes each case seriously, creating a custom plan to stabilize and treat the distressed patient. Look for the signs and symptoms and seek the support needed to treat PTSD or any other mental health condition.
