The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957)(about) |
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Tuesday 10 May 1938
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MENTAL HOSPITAL
REFORMS
The removal of. the stigma oi mental disorder, by bringing mental hospitals closer to the general hospitals,- was advo- cated by Dr. R. Ellery when addressing members of the city branch of the Mental Hospitals Auxiliary last night.
The mental hospital of the future must not be on asylum, but a clinic for the specialised treatment of mental Ill- ness, just as bodily disorders were given special treatment, Dr. Ellery said. "The next step must be to establish at least one ward in each public hospital for the treatment of psychiatric cases," he con- tinued. "Tnerc are at present four out- patient psychiatric clinics attached to public hospitals-the Royal Melbourne, the Alfred, St. Vincent's, and the Children's. But it is impossible to treat these patients as ambulatory casesi Willie their disease is still in its incipient stage, they should be admitted into a ward for treatment, when there will be a lair chance of their complete recovery."
Dr. Ellery said that he would also like to see intermediate mental hospitals established on a voluntary basis. At present there was nothing between expen- sive private nursing homes and Govern-
ment institutions.
Reports of the success of the hair- dressing clinic at Mont Park were read. In view of the success of the work, and the improvement shown by patients who have lound a new Interest In it, the auxiliary will suggest to the Chief Secretary (Mr. Balley) that the Government take over end extend the work.