Mental health admissions fall

THE number of people admitted to mental health specialities in the Lothians has fallen for a fifth consecutive year.

A move towards caring for people with psychological problems in the community is one reason for the decrease, experts said.

Health chiefs have also claimed that more successful work with patients while in hospital reduces the chances of readmission.

The figures, released following a question by Lothians MSP Gavin Brown, showed there were around 2,500 admissions in 2009.

The Conservative MSP, however, said that number was still too high.

"With more than 50 people every week being admitted to a mental health speciality in the Lothians, it is clear that more needs to be done and there is so much that can be done," he said.