**Union Raises Alarm Over Overcrowding and Staffing Issues at Athalassa Psychiatric Hospital**
The Athalassa psychiatric hospital in Cyprus is currently grappling with significant overcrowding and severe staff shortages, raising concerns about the safety of both patients and employees. The trade union Pasydy issued a warning on Friday, stating that the situation has reached critical levels, with wards operating at 150% of their intended capacity.
Pasydy highlighted that the hospital has seen a reduction in operational wards from five to three, exacerbating the overcrowding issue. The remaining wards, which are designed to accommodate 60 patients, are currently housing approximately 90 individuals. Specifically, the two acute care wards are managing around 40 patients, despite a combined capacity of just 22. Additionally, the Themeea building, which is meant to serve 20 patients, is currently accommodating over 30.
The union emphasized that the overcrowding persists even with two additional wards functioning outside the main hospital facility. They argue that the existing facilities are inadequate to meet the demands of mental health services, complicating efforts to maintain safe conditions and provide appropriate psychiatric care.
Pasydy has appealed to the state health services organization Okypy and the Ministry of Health, urging them to take immediate action to address the dire conditions at the hospital. The union stated that it has repeatedly called for improvements but has yet to receive a response from the relevant authorities.
The situation at Athalassa is compounded by a lack of progress on the hospital's redevelopment. President Nikos Christodoulides had previously pledged to enhance mental health services during the inauguration of the first phase of the hospital's redevelopment, which is expected to be completed by late 2024. However, Pasydy expressed concern that, eighteen months after the opening of Phase A, there is still no timetable for the commencement of Phase B. They argue that the current conditions in the nursing wards highlight the urgent need for immediate interventions and substantial support for mental health services.
The hospital, which has been operational since 1964, has faced scrutiny for years due to ongoing allegations of chronic neglect. Earlier this year, the political party Akel described the conditions at the facility as “shameful and dangerous.” Additionally, other unions, including Pasyno and Pasyki, have raised alarms regarding the structural integrity of parts of the hospital's older buildings, suggesting that they may be “structurally unsound,” thereby endangering both patients and staff.
In light of these pressing issues, Pasydy has warned that if there is no immediate and meaningful response from the health ministry, the union may consider further actions to advocate for the necessary changes.
The situation at Athalassa psychiatric hospital underscores the critical need for enhanced mental health services and adequate staffing to ensure the safety and well-being of patients and healthcare workers alike. As the union continues to push for improvements, the future of mental health care in Cyprus remains uncertain, with many calling for urgent reforms to address the longstanding challenges facing facilities like Athalassa.