How To Admit Yourself To A Psychiatric Hospital

When To Seek Hospitalization

• Consider seeking hospitalization if you're experiencing symptoms that put you or others at risk, including:
• Suicidal ideation
• Hallucinations

• Substance abuse requiring detox

• Hospitalization can also be helpful if you are finding yourself unable to function properly due to your illness.

Before Admission

• Ask a trusted friend or family member to assist you with the admission process and paperwork.

• If possible, contact the hospital ahead of time to learn about their rules and procedures, and what items to bring.

• Inquire about visiting hours and telephone access.

Hospital Rules To Expect

• Being in a locked ward initially with restricted freedom of movement.

• Certain items like belts, razors, and shoelaces may be locked away for safety.

• Following a schedule for meals, treatments, activities, and bedtime.

• Sharing a room with someone else.

During Admission

• A psychiatrist will evaluate you to determine an appropriate treatment plan.

• The goal is to assess your physical and mental state, differentiate between medical conditions and psychiatric disorders, and decide on treatments.

• Your treatment plan may involve working with various mental health professionals.

• You will likely participate in individual, group, or family therapy and may receive psychiatric medications.

• Hospital staff will also manage insurance approvals for your stay.

Your Rights as a Patient

• You have the right to:
• Be informed about tests and treatments, including risks and benefits.
• Refuse unnecessary or unsafe tests or treatments.
• Refuse experimental treatment or training sessions involving students or observers.

• Keep your hospitalization confidential unless you consent otherwise.

• The exception to the right to sign yourself out is if the hospital staff deems you a danger to yourself or others. In such cases, you must be released within 2 to 7 days upon formal request, depending on state laws.

• If you have problems getting released, contact your state's protection and advocacy agency.

After Discharge

• Consult your healthcare providers about your discharge plan, including follow-up appointments and referrals for ongoing treatment.

• Follow-up care is crucial to minimize relapse risk, as most medications take 2-3 weeks to take effect, and hospital stays are typically shorter.

• Enlist the help of trusted individuals to support you during this transition. You can also refer them to resources for helping someone with depression.

• Be mindful of the increased suicide risk after discharge and seek support from professionals, friends, and family.

• Establish a regular routine and take care of yourself by eating well, exercising, and getting enough sleep.

• Be gentle with yourself, and recognize that recovery is a gradual process.

Crisis Plan of Action

• Create a plan and compile necessary information in case of future hospitalization, including:
• Doctor's contact information
• Trusted friends, family, or support group contacts
• Health issues and allergies
• List of medications
• Insurance information

• Preferred hospital

• Consider an advance directive and medical power of attorney to authorize a trusted person to make medical decisions on your behalf if necessary.

Summary

• Checking into a hospital for depression can be difficult, but it's essential to recognize when it's appropriate.

• Common reasons for admission include psychosis, mania, substance misuse, or suicidal thoughts/behaviors.

• There are resources available to help you, and effective treatments exist for depression.

• After admission, a treatment team will evaluate your symptoms, develop a treatment plan, and work to stabilize your condition.

• Following discharge, it's crucial to work with a follow-up team, adhere to medication and treatment plans, and seek support from loved ones when needed.