Behavioral Health Unit

The Transitions unit is a 10-bed acute inpatient mental health unit located at Fitzgibbon Hospital in Marshall, Missouri. This secure unit is dedicated to serving an adult population age18 and above. Admission criteria include behaviors creating a danger to self or others, acute psychosis, or the need for medication initiation or adjustment that cannot be safely completed in an outpatient setting. Patients should be able to attend and comprehend group activities and presentations.

A medical clearance evaluation is required as part of the admission screening process; existing medical conditions must be stabilized prior to admission. Psychiatric related diagnoses/medications are managed by the psychiatrist while medical conditions and related medications are managed by a member of the hospitalist group.

A team of medical and clinical professionals work together to help the patient and family begin the recovery process. An individualized treatment plan incorporating patient input is developed. This plan may include individual, group, family therapies, and relaxation and expressive therapies, as appropriate.

Program Interventions

Stabilization of psychiatric crisis
Medication initiation and management
Education regarding diagnoses
Group and individual sessions promoting positive coping skills

After Care Planning

Treatment does not end with discharge from the hospital. In order to maintain the benefit of treatment gains made during hospitalization, it is important that patients continue with aftercare plans designed to meet their specific needs.

Medication Management will be continued through scheduled appointments with the psychiatrist. Individual and/or family counseling may be appropriate.

Warning Signs of Acute Suicidal Risk

Talking about suicide or thoughts of suicide
Seeking lethal means to kill oneself
Purposelessness-no reason for living
Anxiety or agitation
Insomnia
Substance Abuse-excessive or increased
Hopelessness
Social withdrawal from friends/family/society
Anger-uncontrolled rage/seeking, revenge/partner violence
Recklessness-risky acts/unthinking
Mood changes-often dramatic

Other factors:

Past suicide attempt increases the risk for a subsequent attempt or suicide; multiple prior attempts dramatically increase risk.
Triggering events leading to humiliation, shame, or despair elevate risk. These may include loss of relationship, financial or health status-real or anticipated.
Firearms accessible to a person in acute risk magnifies that risk.

If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, seek assistance immediately.

Local Mental Health Crisis Hotline - 1-800-395-2132

National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1-800-273-TALK(8255)

Transitions Unit - 1-660-831-3220