Backus Hospital is preparing to open a new Behavioral Health Crisis Unit in its emergency department. A member of the hospital’s care team said his 10-room unit was designed to meet the growing needs of the community.

“The need for mental health has absolutely skyrocketed since COVID,” said Bacchus Hospital nurse Melissa Oloff. “I think it’s definitely become a bigger need.

Emergency services chief Dr. Kyle McClain said mental health care is currently the number one need in emergency care in the region.

“It’s really hard for the community to keep up, and this population is getting bigger and bigger, and sometimes we’re spilling out into the hallways and into the rest of the emergency department. It’s not just a few beds, but behavioral problems.” “There are two or three areas with patients of all ages, which we had many years ago,” Dr. McClane said. “At least 10 patients are fully individualized, private Having a quiet environment and experience in the US would be very helpful.”

Each room in the unit has a door and a wall to give patients a private experience. Patients can dim the lights. The unit also comes with many safety features for your care team, such as cameras, door access, emergency button and water stop.

“There will be a lot less human traffic through this area, less irritation, and a more soothing environment for patients. I can share what’s going on,” said Olof, who will work as a nurse at the unit.

There is also a separate area for youth seeking crisis care. If the unit receives approval from the Connecticut Public Health Department, it is expected to open next month.