Zen dens help patients relax

Gosford mental health unit staff in the new Zen Den

New calming spaces have been opened in mental health units at Gosford and Wyong public hospitals to support relaxation and recovery for patients.

The Zen Dens have been developed in high dependency areas with features such as softer lighting, calming sense music, art materials and sensory items to support self-regulation.

They also include a large image of a local site of significance captured by a local artist.

Central Coast Local Health District’s Facebook page says the spaces were designed in collaboration with consumer feedback from both patients and staff, with many finding the spaces is beneficial for de-stressing.

Terry Collins