Brief Intervention Unit

Chances are great that at some point in our lifetimes, each and every one of us, either personally or through a family member or friend, will be impacted by mental illness or addiction.

The statistics are simply staggering. In just two short years, it is predicted that mental illness will become the single leading cause of disability around the world. Still, despite its prevalence, mental health does not always attract the same level of support as other areas of health care. And this is why the Thrift Shop decided to help refurbish the Brief Intervention Unit (BIU) at Vancouver General Hospital (VGH).

The donation has helped ensure treatment is provided in a respectful environment that promotes and encourages healing.

The donation allowed the renovation of the main patient/family lounge – easily the most widely used room on the unit with as many as 16 people in there at a time. Funding was used to paint the room, replace the furniture and add a new, wall-mounted television. It is worth noting that the television is important, not just for entertainment purposes, but also to help patients stay connected to the outside world through news and other educational programs.