Being Admitted to a Mental Health Hospital
Being admitted to a mental health hospital can be a scary thing. I have gone in three times voluntarily and once involuntary.
I want to share my experience with you, so you are not frightened if it happens to you.
When you go in on your own you feel more in control. Mental hospitals can be helpful, because usually if you are told to go it means something is out-of-control.
It is for your safety. You get more intense therapy, too. You are in a safe environment and can handle the intense therapy.
Once Admitted to a Psychiatric Hospital
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When you go in someone will go over your patient rights and a little about what will happen.
Usually the first day you are allowed to rest and get use to the facilities.
Within 24 hours of being admitted to a psychiatric hospital you will see a psychiatrist who will write up a plan for you. Which will include medicine management and a treatment plan.
The treatment plan will include therapy session notes and other groups you can attend. You do have input on your treatment plan and can work with the doctor to make a plan to work on the issues that concern you.
If you are hospitalized for suicidal thoughts, usually you are put on a 15 minute check situation. This is where you are confined to the dorm area, so the staff can keep a constant watch on you for your safety. Sometimes it can seem a little confining, but after about 24 hours if you have proven yourself to be safe you are moved to a level where you can leave the dorm area and go to the groups or dining hall.
Involuntary Admission to a Psychiatric Hospital
When you are involuntary committed to a mental health hospital, you are driven by the police. I was and they handcuffed me for my own safety. They made me as comfortable as possible. The police were very understanding and gentle.
I was taken to the emergency room first and then someone from the mental hospital came and evaluated me. That person is the one who determined I would be committed to the hospital. They took me by ambulance to the mental health hospital. You feel like your in a daze. So much is happening and you feel out of control.
I always hated going in a hospital, but was glad after a few days. I saw how
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I also have attended outpatient therapy at the hospital. This is were you attend group therapy sessions in a hospital setting during the day.
I would also have private therapy sessions with a hospital psychologist or counselor. I am not a big one on group therapy, but these groups are generally well ran and kept in control.
Going to group therapy can be overwhelming. Hearing other peoples stories of abuse or what they are going through can bring up your issues. If this happens, tell one of the staff. They can help you walk through it and it will be much easier to deal with.
If you do have to go to a mental hospital, go into it with an open mind. See that it will help you and you will come through it better in the end. Listen and work with the staff. Don't resist their suggestions. They are specialist in the mental health field and are there to help you.