Bellevue Hospital Unveils Wellness Lounge to Enhance Patient-Family Communication

Jamaica’s sole public psychiatric medical institution, the Bellevue Hospital in Kingston, officially opened its new family room, the ‘Wellness Lounge’, on Monday (March 3).

The lounge will serve as a forum to effectively enhance communication between patients and their loved ones, locally and overseas, thereby bridging the gap created by distance and the stigma surrounding mental illness in Jamaica.

It will also foster a supportive environment for recovery and reintegration into the community through client consultations and facilitate recreational activities for social engagement and enjoyment.

Work on the Wellness Lounge commenced in May 2024, through a partnership with Friends of Bellevue and the generous support of key sponsors.

Jamaican footballer, Leon Bailey, kick-started the project with a contribution of $500,000 through his Foundation.

Prominent dancehall artiste, Rodney “Bounty Killer” Pryce, also donated two air-conditioning units to ensure a comfortable environment within the lounge.

A $3-million donation was also received from United Kingdom-based Barrister, Suzette Thompson, which was used to purchase a premium USB video-conferencing system for seamless communication, as well as furniture to create a home-like setting.

The vision for the Wellness Lounge was inspired by the hospital’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Suzette Buchanan, who underscored the critical role of family support in the client recovery process, while pointing out that “we could not have done this without kind and generous sponsorship”.

The Lounge’s state-of-the-art telecommunications capabilities were highlighted by Senior Medical Officer, Dr. Roger Roberts.

“We know that there are some family members who aren’t able to make it due to work obligations and, sometimes, financial constraints. But with this room, we will be able to connect virtually,” he pointed out.

Bellevue Hospital serves more than 400 of Jamaica’s most vulnerable individuals, many of whom are social cases with no other place to call home.

Ms. Buchanan noted that, “in many cases, the last memory families have of their loved ones is of a manic state; therefore, the community may have reservations about welcoming them back”.

“Recognising this challenge, the Wellness Lounge aims to foster open communication and acceptance within the home and community,” she added.

While expressing gratitude for the support already received, the CEO is encouraging corporate Jamaica and other well-thinking citizens to support the hospital’s efforts in delivering quality mental healthcare.

“By partnering with us, you can help support initiatives that will have a tangible impact on our society,” Ms. Buchanan maintained.