Mental health support bolstered for stroke patients

The physical challenges of life after a stroke are well documented but Townsville University Hospital is now providing additional mental health support for patients.

Townsville University Hospital’s stroke ward has introduced mental health screening for all patients at the five-day and five-week mark of their recovery.

Advanced psychologist Matt Taylor, who will be providing the service, said the mental recovery from a stroke could be just as gruelling as the physical recovery.

“Life before and after a stroke is very different and that can place a huge amount of stress on people’s mental health,” he said.

“We will now be screening every patient after five days to check if they have the signs of low mood, depression or anxiety and if they do, I’ll be there to support them.”

Occupational therapist Ian Meade said in addition to the hospital support, patients could also receive psychology outpatient follow-up.

“You can’t underestimate how big a change it is for people returning home and not being able to do things the same way they were used to,” he said.

“Now we’ve got the ability to reach in when they are at home and make sure that any additional support, we can provide to help them adjust is provided.

“At both checks we also work closely with family members because we understand the pivotal role they play in supporting their loved one during the recovery.”

Mr Taylor said in Australia about 50 per cent of people who have a stroke show some signs of mood disorder when followed up via phone 90 days post discharge.

Townsville’s acute stroke unit supports about 250 North Queenslanders every year.