At St. Joe’s forensic psychiatry program, patient admissions are often measured in years, not days. Individuals in the program are those living with a complex mental illness who have come into contact with the criminal justice system. Living in a secure mental health facility means patients face social isolation and may have little contact with family or outside support networks.

As a result, these patients spend most of their time with the health care professionals who provide their care, including during the holidays. And each year, St. Joe’s staff members go out of their way to bring Christmas cheer and a sense of community to this unique group of patients.

“We’re the ones who are with them year after year, during the good times and the not so good times,” said Derek Stokke, nurse manager in the forensic psychiatry program at St. Joe’s. “We have to learn to celebrate holidays with them.”

One of the program’s longstanding traditions is a family-style meal that staff and patients prepare and eat together. It’s a complete departure from the typical dynamic between patients and their care team and provides a unique opportunity for everyone to experience a sense of community and celebration.

“It’s the preparation of a meal that brings people together,” Stokke said. “We’re all human beings celebrating the holidays and the spirit of the season.”

Each of the forensic psychiatry units will prepare and eat a meal on a different day, ensuring there are enough staff members around to ensure the safety and security. Stokke said that the experience of preparing and sharing a meal also promotes trust and safety among patients and staff.

“These kinds of activities promote community,” Stokke said. “If you build a trusting relationship, patients see you as someone who is part of their team looking out for them. That actually keeps people safe.”

Giving patients the opportunity to take part in the celebration also creates a unique opportunity for staff members to observe and assess their interactions with each other. This is important, given that the ultimate goal for patients is to reintegrate them into society.

The family-style meal tradition in the forensic program has grown over the years. This year, patients who are undergoing assessment and face heightened security restrictions will also receive a holiday lunch. While they won’t be able to take part in the preparation, Stokke said it’s important to find these opportunities to create a sense of community.

There are a range of other Christmas- and holiday-themed activities taking place at St. Joe’s West 5^th campus this year, including a dance, a petting zoo and small group tours to see Christmas lights.

Dr. Randi McCabe, vice president of mental health and addictions at St. Joe’s, said these are important activities for all patients in the program.

“We know that patients do well when they feel connected to society and to each other,” McCabe said. “That’s why it’s important for us to include these community-building opportunities during the holiday season and beyond.”

Stokke said another activity he will look forward to is Christmas carolling, during which he will don a full Grinch costume. The holiday celebrations require a lot of coordination, but he said he’s glad to do it.

“It’s a lot of fun. Even the Grinch puts on a smile for it,” he said.