TRENDS IN MENTAL HOSPITALS.

Abstract

Statistics from other countries indicate a trend to decreasing resident mental hospital population in spite of an increasing admission rate. This trend began prior to the widespread use of psychotropic drugs. Their value, however, can not be discounted as they have, in addition to their therapeutic value, broken the barrier between practising physician and mental patient, have facilitated psychotherapy and have augmented and supported the many facets which now go to form the ‘therapeutic community.’ At The Ontario Hospital, St. Thomas, the resident population has remained relatively constant since 1956, in spite of an increasing admission rate. Resident schizophrenic population is decreasing with an accumulation of elderly schizophrenics. More non-psychotics are being admitted. The use of psychotropic drugs continues to increase and comprises 75% of total drug cost. The total hospital program providing the patients with more of the amenities of living; the involvement of the community in aftercare, and our rehabilitation program are outlined. A study at The Ontario Hospital, St. Thomas comparing two groups of first admission schizophrenics (1948–49 and 1957–58) revealed, 1) The median length of stay of first admission schizophrenics decreased from six to four months. 2) The decreased length of stay did not result in an increase in readmissions. 3) The number of chronic patients (first admission schizophrenics continuously in hospital for four years), decreased 13.9% in the interval under consideration.