Hanko Health Center uses Neurosonic in its mental health unit
In the summer of 2017, the Hanko Health Center acquired a Neurosonic Professional chair under a leasing agreement, mainly for the use of the mental health and substance abuse unit and the reception of children and young people.
The mental health and substance abuse unit has 1 psychologist position and 1 + ½ + ½ psychiatric nurse position. The unit also includes an activity center where 1 psychiatric nurse and 1 craft instructor work. The reception for children and young people has 1 family therapist, 1 psychologist, 1 social curator and ½ psychiatric nurse. The units operate on the principle of a low threshold, i.e. no referral is needed.
The largest clientele of the mental health unit are patients with depression and anxiety. Problems related to various life crises also bring people to the unit's clientele. Patients are referred to the unit from specialized care due to various mental illnesses or problems. A voluntary psychological first aid group operates in Hanko, which offers help to those who have experienced psychological trauma. The group's customers are also offered the opportunity for Neurosonic relaxation.
GENERAL REGARDS TO THE USE OF NEUROSONIC IN THE HANKO HEALTH CENTER
A 25-minute relaxation program is usually offered, but e.g. pain patients have tried other programs according to their individual needs. Patients attend Neurosonic treatment 1-3 times a week or individually as otherwise agreed. The chat service on Neurosonic's website has helped the staff very quickly and expertly. Physiotherapists at the health center have also been offered the opportunity to use the chair in client work.
STATISTICAL INFORMATION FOR 2018
In 2018, a total of 933 appointments were made for the Neurosonic chair, the peak month was November, when there were 149 appointments. Most of the appointments were for a 25-minute relaxation program.
Most of the patients referred to Neurosonic by the nurses of the mental health unit were depression/anxiety patients and a large number had a trauma background. A few patients with a diagnosis of sleep disorders came with a referral from the health center doctor. Several patients could also be described as pain patients. City employees had the opportunity to book appointments for Neurosonic treatments (well-being at work), and some did. Many of those who visited a psychologist had a background of pain or trauma, as well as difficulties related to sleep or relaxation
CUSTOMER EXPERIENCES AND OBSERVED TO BE INFLUENTIAL IN THE CARE RELATIONSHIP
The majority of Neurosonic customers are looking for help/relief in an overstimulation state; Neurosonic helps calm the autonomic nervous system, relax learning.
Being in the chair provides an experience of conscious presence: body awareness, music, etc., which is of great value, especially for restoring the trauma patient's sense of control in the present moment. Coming to Neurosonic treatment and being there almost invariably gives clients the experience of taking care of themselves (arranging time for it, permission to stop/calm down) and experiencing its importance surprises many, even makes them cry.
For patients with depression, booking an appointment gives structure to the week, and the patient's self-help improves self-image and thereby lifts the mood. In busy times, a Neurosonic appointment can help act as a supporter before the next appointment. Patients themselves have asked for advice on using the programs through Neurosonic's chat service.