Who is involved in the bridging process?

In order to make bridging possible, a number of individuals must work together to create an environment that facilitates therapeutic relationships and open communication. These individuals must share the desire to foster an alternative method to discharge planning and assist clients with a mental illness to re-enter the community.

What is the role of the hospital staff (bridging staff)?

• The staff member who has established the best therapeutic relationship with the client works collaboratively with the client and health care team in developing the transitional discharge plan. The bridging staff continues the therapeutic relationship with the client after discharge until the client has established a therapeutic working relationship with a community care provider.

What is the role of the community care provider?

• The community care provider provides primary mental health care for clients following discharge from hospital. The community care provider develops a therapeutic working relationship with the client and continues this relationship beyond the client's and bridging staff's relationship.

What is the role of the peer support volunteer?

• The peer support volunteer from a local mental health consumer/survivor agency is trained to provide informal/social support to the client leaving hospital.

What is the role of the client?

• The client is a partner with the hospital staff, community care provider, and peer support volunteer who actively contributes to his/her discharge planning, re-integration into the community, and utilizes supportive relationships to meet identified goals.