Staff inside the Logan Crisis Support Space
More than 500 people experiencing mental health distress have found comfort in the Logan Crisis Support Space (CSS) since it opened at Logan Hospital in July last year.
Co-designed by clinicians and people with lived experience, the CSS offers a peaceful alternative to the Emergency Department for individuals in crisis.
This innovative approach to mental health care moves away from clinical environments, fostering a warm, home-like space where traditional terms like ‘consumer’ are replaced with ‘guests’.
Clinical Nurse Coordinator Tamika, who helped develop the space described working in the CSS as incredibly rewarding.
“In the past, I met people in crisis in an Emergency Department but now I have the privilege of supporting them in a setting designed for healing,” Tamika said.
“It’s gratifying to know this space not only provides practical support, but also fosters a safe, compassionate environment where people can begin to heal.”
One of nine crisis support spaces in Queensland, the Logan CSS is a partnership between Metro South Health and Neami National and funded under the Better Care Together plan to improve mental health, alcohol and other drug services across the state.
Staffed by peer workers and mental health clinicians, visitors can relax, talk to someone who will truly listen, and leave with tools, skills, and community connections.
The service is open and available to anyone aged over 16, seven-days a week with people able to self-present or be referred from the Emergency Department or other co-responders.
Addiction and Mental Health Services Executive Director Kieran Kinsella highlighted the vital role the Logan CSS played in providing care away from Emergency Departments (EDs).
“We know EDs are often not the best place for people in mental health crisis,” he said. “Spaces like this offer specialised care from those who have lived experience, in an environment designed for comfort, calm, and recovery.”
Filled with natural light, the space features breakout and relaxation areas, beanbags, lounges, a kitchen, a TV, and arts and crafts. There’s also a bathroom with shower facilities, a quiet room with recliners for one-on-ones, and an outdoor deck with seating, plants, and a herb garden.
“This space is somewhere people feel valued, not judged, and where they can connect with the community services they need,” Mr Kinsella said.