Mental Health

New Mental Health Hospital for Children to Begin Construction Next Year

A new mental health hospital dedicated to children and adolescents is set to begin construction next year. The 150-bed facility will be integrated with a 45-bed acute care hospital, located near White Oak Crossing at the intersection of Timber Drive East and White Oak Road in Garner.

The Importance of Mental Health

Mental health is a critical component of overall well-being, encompassing emotional, psychological, and social aspects. It influences how individuals think, feel, and act, making it essential at every stage of life. Common disorders such as anxiety and depression are increasingly prevalent among children and adolescents, underscoring the need for early intervention, which can significantly improve treatment outcomes.

Despite the growing awareness, stigma around mental health still poses a barrier to seeking help, and access to care varies significantly by location. Support systems play a crucial role in recovery, and therapies often include a combination of counseling, medication, and lifestyle modifications. Mental health awareness campaigns are instrumental in promoting understanding and support, particularly for the younger population.

Details of the New Facility

The upcoming mental health hospital will be part of a 53-acre campus dedicated to integrating physical and psychiatric care. Known as the WakeMed Mental Health & Well-Being Hospital, the facility aims to address the current shortage in treatment availability. With an average stay of 5 to 7 days, the hospital is expected to serve over 1,500 individuals monthly who require mental health care, a need that currently sees only half receiving in-patient psychiatric services.

The new hospital's construction is anticipated to alleviate some of these shortages by expanding capacity and resources for mental health treatment. The facility is designed to enhance the continuity of care, providing comprehensive services that cater specifically to the unique needs of children and adolescents.

Timeline and Expectations

The groundbreaking ceremony for the hospital is scheduled for November 6, signaling the official commencement of construction activities. The project is expected to progress over the next few years, with the hospital aiming to welcome its first patients by early 2029. This timeline reflects the commitment to developing a state-of-the-art facility that prioritizes the mental health needs of the community's younger population.

Once operational, the hospital will not only increase the availability of mental health services but also foster an environment that encourages more open discussions and acceptance of mental health issues. By focusing on children and adolescents, the hospital hopes to make a lasting impact on the community's health and well-being.

Addressing Mental Health Needs

The decision to construct a new mental health hospital arises from the growing recognition of mental health needs, particularly among younger demographics. The rise in mental health issues among children and adolescents necessitates dedicated facilities that can provide specialized care and support.

By establishing this hospital, WakeMed aims to create a safe and nurturing environment where young individuals can receive the care they need. This initiative also seeks to destigmatize mental health treatment and encourage more people to seek help without fear of judgment or discrimination.

As construction begins next year, the community looks forward to the positive changes this facility will bring, offering hope and healing to many who have long awaited increased access to mental health care.