INPATIENT HOSPITALIZATION
Inpatient hospitalization involves stabilizing the crisis that led to the hospitalization. A thorough physical and mental evaluation is completed to determine the cause of the psychiatric problem. All care is provided in a supportive environment with 24-hour nursing care to help ensure the well-being of each patient.

Based on the results of the evaluation, we develop a comprehensive treatment plan. Treatment focuses on counseling in the areas of the patient’s life causing undue stress, teaching new ways to adapt to both the illness and the stress, and education about mental illness. We also determine an appropriate level of medication for the patient, and teach him or her how to use medication appropriately.

All of these therapies are designed to help patients resume their high-quality lives as quickly as possible. Our clinical team helps plan and coordinate care following hospitalization.

HOW WE CAN HELP
At Senior Behavioral Sciences, we offer individualized care in a warm, supportive atmosphere. The first thing our professional team will do is a very thorough evaluation to help determine what is causing the behavioral and mental changes. We then work with the patient and family to develop a course of treatment. Treatment includes individual meetings with psychiatrists, group therapy with seniors struggling with similar problems, and educational programs. Our nurses, psychiatrists, social workers, and activity therapists can help with all aspects of a person’s life.

OUR SPECIAL SERVICES
To ensure excellence, we offer:

Confidential initial consultation to help determine the appropriate level of care.
Follow-up care to ensure that the improvements made will be long-lasting.
Management of a patient’s secondary medical needs.

SYMPTOMS OF EMOTIONAL ILLNESS
Signs and symptoms that a loved one might be experiencing emotional illness include:

Insomnia or too much sleep
Crying spells
Poor appetite or overeating
Disregard for personal appearance
Sad or blank look on face
Thoughts of suicide
Forgetfulness or confusion
Social isolation

These symptoms are not normal at any age and should be considered an illness in the elderly.

THE FAMILY’S ROLE
When one person in the family suffers from a mental or emotional illness, everyone else in the family is also affected. Admission to a psychiatric treatment center is understandably traumatic and can be especially so for an elderly person. Stresses and strains in relationships are intensified.

We understand this and encourage family members to express their feelings and learn new ways to cope with the frustrations. We encourage them to participate in their loved one’s treatment process. Our family support groups help to re-establish healthy communication channels that will lead to stronger family ties and happier lives.

EMOTIONAL ILLNESS
We all hope our family members will enjoy "the golden years." But, as individuals age, they experience the loss of loved ones, as well as the stresses that go with losing physical and mental abilities. A changing lifestyle and increased physical challenges can lead to sadness and withdrawal. However, persistent personality changes or unusual behavior may indicate your loved one is suffering from a mental illness, such as depression.

Most depression and other emotional illnesses in older people are treatable, especially if dealt with early. In addition to improving a senior’s outlook on life, therapy also helps individuals to better care for themselves and to follow their own primary care provider’s directions, particularly about taking medicines.

ADMISSION
Admissions are accepted 24 hours a day. Referrals may be made by physicians, psychologists, social workers, mental health professionals, social service agencies, family members, or friends. The decision regarding admission is made by a psychiatrist.

HOW TO CONTACT US
For more information or to schedule a consultation, call Senior Behavioral Sciences at (608) 348-3656 or email us at sbs@southwesthealth.org. We are located at 1185 North Elm Street in Platteville, WI and our staff is available 24 hours a day. All inquiries are completely confidential.