Every year in May, Colleton Medical Center takes time to bring attention to the importance of Mental Health by lighting the hospital green for Mental Health Awareness Month. Our award-winning behavioral health team also leads discussions about mental health and self-care within the hospital and throughout the community. These efforts contributed to Colleton Medical Center being recognized as a 2021 Drive to Zero Suicide award recipient for advancing a culture that addresses suicide prevention as a key element of care.
According to the South Carolina Department of Mental Health, 23,975 South Carolinians walked into an emergency room with suicidal ideations in 2020. That’s one South Carolinian every 22 minutes and 23,975 reasons why mental health awareness is important.
When mental health issues affect you or a loved-one family, access to quality, competent, and compassionate care is key for recovery. The vast majority are able to improve with outpatient treatment. However, Colleton Medical Center offers inpatient treatment for adults struggling with Behavioral Health concerns beyond those treated in outpatient care. Our team of trained professionals includes Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses, Behavioral Health Technicians, Social Workers, Activity Therapists, and Psychiatrists. Our team provides a safe environment with a variety of therapeutic activities, including Group Therapy, Daily Relaxation, and Mindfulness Exercises, Activity Therapy, Nutrition Education, Spiritual Wellness Group, and Medication Education.
“If you're concerned about someone, trust your instincts and consider it an emergency,” said Colleton Medical Center’s Psychiatry Medical Director, Dr. Charles Shissias. “When you take action, the worst-case scenario is that people go to the ER and they're okay and referred for outpatient care. But the best-case scenario is you save a life.”
If you or someone you know is feeling depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed, we urge you to contact one of the below crisis resources for help:
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- National Hopeline Network: 1-800-SUICIDE (800-784-2433)
- Crisis Text Line: Text “DESERVE” TO 741-741