Psych Ward: What to Expect if You're Admitted?

Psychiatric hospitals, often called mental health wards or behavioral health wards, exist to give intensive care to patients dealing with severe mental health issues. These facilities offer various services, encompassing inpatient care, outpatient care, and day-treatment programs.

Involuntary Admission:

In certain cases, a person might be involuntarily admitted to a psychiatric ward. This decision is taken by a psychiatrist or mental health expert who assesses the person's state and establishes that they are a threat to themselves or others. Reasons for involuntary admission may include:

• Suicidal thoughts or behavior
• Causing physical harm to oneself or others
• Abuse of drugs or alcohol
• Severe emotional distress or anxiety
• Self-destructive behavior or inability to care for oneself
• Threatening others' safety
• Struggling to cope with one's environment

Admission Process:

Upon admission to a psychiatric ward, the patient goes through a comprehensive assessment by a treatment team. This evaluation usually involves a physical examination, laboratory tests, and a meeting with a psychiatrist to discuss medication management. Based on this assessment, a tailored treatment plan is developed for the patient.

Length of Stay:

The duration of stay in a psychiatric ward depends on the individual's condition and treatment progress. Patients can leave the ward when they are no longer considered a threat to themselves or others. In some situations, doctors may suggest further therapy and monitoring prior to release.

Visitation Policies:

Psychiatric wards typically have visitation rules that are strict, permitting only immediate family members to visit during specific time frames. Visits are usually supervised by staff to ensure the safety and privacy of patients.

Restraint and Forced Stay:

Psychiatric wards may sometimes have to restrain patients to prevent them from harming themselves or others. This may involve the use of physical or chemical restraints. Additionally, patients may be involuntarily made to stay in the ward for treatment if they are seen as a risk to themselves or others.

Differences Between Psychiatric Wards and Hospitals:

Psychiatric wards and psychiatric hospitals, which specialize in long-term care for those with severe mental illnesses, are different. Psychiatric wards are usually located within general medical hospitals or psychiatric hospitals and provide short-term inpatient psychiatric services.

Coping During Hospitalization:

Being admitted to a psychiatric facility can be emotionally taxing. To make your stay more comfortable, you can: - Ask about yoga or meditation services - Request sedatives or anti-anxiety medication if needed - Stay connected with family and friends