Did you know our psychologists are embedded in departments and units across the hospital, with the aim of supporting the mental health of patients, families and staff?

This week is Psychology Week, and we are celebrating the important role psychology plays here at the RCH. There is no health without mental health, and care at the RCH extends beyond physical treatment.

Eighteen-year-old Rose was born with biliary atresia, a rare and dangerous liver condition. As a result, she called hospital home for majority of the first year and a half of her life.

Fortunately, Rose underwent a liver transplant and has been able to stay fairly well ever since. However, she still faces a range of persistent medical issues.

“I continue to see various departments at the hospital and need hospital admission from time to time. This year I had to be admitted several times. This was a big upheaval because I’m doing VCE”, Rose said.

“My psychologist at the RCH has been helpful in many ways. She’s easy to talk to, and very flexible. She’s made herself available at short notice on several occasions when unexpected things have happened.”

Rose has regular cognitive behaviour therapy sessions where she has learned grounding and breathing techniques.

“We’ve also done Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprogramming (EMDR). This therapy was useful to help me deal with post-traumatic stress disorder that developed as a result of traumatic medical procedures during my hospital admissions.”

Being in hospital can be a scary and stressful time, but our psychologists are here to provide a safe space for patients and families to talk about their experience.

Please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 if mental health concerns are affecting you.