Haven for psychological well-being

Oasis – Center for Personal Growth and Crisis Intervention, which offers professional counselling services for HA staff, recorded an average monthly increase of 15% between June and September last year in individual counselling services provided. Seeing the need for early psychological intervention, Oasis joins hands with Critical Incident Psychological Services (CIPS) Centres and Critical Incident Support Teams (CISTs) of clusters to organise relaxation workshops and set up Respite Centres or Respite Stations at Head Office and over 30 hospitals. By taking part in various mind-easing activities, staff can take a break, access information on psychological services, or just enjoy snacks, have a drink and relax.

The idea of respite centre originates from a crisis intervention service model in the US, which provides respite for rescue workers. According to feedback collected from participants, they reckon that the activities were effective in calming one’s mind and understanding one’s mental condition. Some participants hope to have a permanent respite centre / station in future.

Relaxation

Sitting on a comfortable floor chair, your stress hormone level can be lowered by practising imagery or breathing exercises following audio instructions, viewing tranquil natural landscapes with virtual reality headsets, or enjoying a cup of herbal tea.

    

Mindfulness

You can practise mindfulness exercises, including mindful breathing and mindful eating, to regulate emotions, relieve stress and improve psychological wellness.

Focusing

Practising calligraphy of inspiring quotes, playing with miniature Japanese Zen garden or colouring detailed patterns are effective ways to calm the mind.

  

Information station

10 sets of information cards and ‘Caring for Ourselves’ Series of self-help tips are available for colleagues. Topics cover tips on tackling common difficulties like parenting, insomnia and anger control. There is also information about mental health and relevant services provided by voluntary and professional organisations in response to recent social issues.

A diversity of activities are offered by different respite centres / stations, which have different opening hours too. Browse the Oasis website for details.