One in five Canadians will experience a mental illness at some point in their lives. In Regina, the inpatient mental health unit (Unit 1D) at the Regina General Hospital sees approximately 1,400 patients a year, with an average stay of 15-17 days.

The patients on Unit 1D include adults experiencing severe mental health and/or addiction issues which cannot be managed in a community setting. This can include, but is not limited to, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety and addictions.

In 2018 more than 7,500 clients took part in mental health programming at the Regina General Hospital on an outpatient basis. Outpatient programming includes the mental health day program.

Inpatients and community clients, including those in the outpatient programs, often visit the courtyard for some fresh air, to relax and to enjoy a beautiful setting. Patients and clients also have an opportunity to learn about gardening and healthy eating options, under the direction of staff at the hospital. During the summer months, barbeques are held in the courtyard, providing patients with an opportunity to interact with hospital staff and each other in a relaxed atmosphere.

Staff at the Hospital have commented on the many positive impacts on patients, including increases in confidence and engagement, development of social skills and a sense of ownership of an inviting space that encourages relaxation and stress release.

The project received a major boost in September 2018, when Lowe’s Regina chose to support mental health services at Regina General Hospital through Hospitals of Regina Foundation. Staff at the two Lowe’s stores in Regina collected donations from customers at their tills.The proceeds will support improvements to the existing courtyard.

Thanks to Lowe’s and their customers, a new composting bin and planters will be built and used to help patients learn to grow their own vegetables. As well, future improvements will be made in order to make the space even more welcoming.

“Watching patients grow as a result of this experience has been truly amazing,” said Angie Tangjerd, director, inpatient mental health services at the Regina General Hospital. “I think that we sometimes take the simple things in life for granted, but when you can offer this to those who don’t have the same opportunities, it’s fantastic.”

“The Foundation is so grateful for the support of our community partners like Lowe’s Regina,” said Lisa Green, vice-president, development, Hospitals of Regina Foundation. “The courtyard project is an example of people working together on solutions that make lives better for people in our community with mental health challenges.”