Adult mental health centre – A case study report from Slovenia

Issue There are two main public mental health problems in Slovenia: suicide and harmful alcohol consumption. The average suicide rate (25 per 100.000 people) is above the European average. There are substantial differences in the accessibility of mental health services and socio-economic and demographic differences within individual geographical areas. To address those challenges the establishment of comprehensive and accessible mental health centres within local environments were planned. Description of the Problem First ten adult mental health centres (AMHC) were established last year, one covering population of approximately 80.000 people. The implementation process is well established, while the evaluation process has just begun and assessment of characteristics of the population covered by one of the first AMHC serves as the basis. Results There were 74 people in medical treatment in one of the rural AMHC in Slovenia in 2019, mostly women (68.9%) and older people (x ̅=61.9). The income of people included is very low (x ̅=523 EUR). The number of hospitalisations were higher before inclusion (x ̅=1.2 before; x ̅=0.2 after). Beside regular treatment patients receive non-pharmacological therapies such as health education (90.5%) and occupational therapy (47.3%). Within first patients’ assessment mostly the physical health needs, psychological distress, daytime activities and safety to self were not met, which changes after the second assessment (p < 0.05, t > 2.000). Lessons Multiple needs of the patients seem to be well addressed through comprehensive, multidisciplinary team work and intersectoral collaboration at local level (e.g. with social work centres, family physicians, non-governmental services). Key messages Patients’ needs are well addressed through patient-centred approach at local level. Comprehensive, multidisciplinary team work and intersectoral collaboration at local level can address multiple needs of the patients.