Posted by Oddzilla on June 5, 2000, at 19:42:42
In reply to Hospital Q's - scared don't know what to expect, posted by me-but-not-me on June 5, 2000, at 18:38:33
> Hello all,
>
> I am facing possible hospitalization and have been putting off seeking treatment because I don't know what to expect. I think it will be voluntary, but- if they ask me about suicidal ideations and I am honest & say 'yes', I don't want them to be able to commit me... I realize my fears my be unfounded but I have no idea what to expect.I don't think being committed would be an issue unless you were actively suicidal and refusing to be hospitalized. I don't think being honest about having serious thoughts about suicide would cause you to be committed.
>
> I have been just getting meds from my GP, and since I am in the healthcare field he gives me pretty much whatever I want. I have been managing my own meds for about a year now, and I am tired of it. I can't wait 4 weeks for a psych and med eval from a psychiatrist, and the thought of having to look for one again overwhelms me to the point that I can't do it.
>
> Suicide had ceased to be an option for a while in my mind, but now it's back. Not that I think I'll do it tonight or anything, but- I know just how I would do it, and all I can think about is the peace that would follow after all of 'this' stopped. You know what I mean. At least I think you do.I know what you mean. I suspect a lot of people here do.
>
> I am worried enough to seek help since I have really specific details worked out in my plan. Though I have no desire to do it right now, it will look like a better and better option the longer this goes on. I am really just fed up with everything.
>
> Anyway, if you have been in the hospital please let me know what to expect. I am not violent, in fact I am quite catatonic, so I don't expect to be restrained or anything. I am just worried that they will see the scars on my arms from cutting and with the suicide ideation, they will just lock me up. I may be being totally irrational about this, but I have to arrange for someone to come into my garbage dump of an apartment and feed the cats, etc...I think probably they will arrange for you to be voluntarily admitted and you will be allowed to go home and make arrangements. Do you have a doctor who is planning to admit you or are you going to go to a hospital yourself? Maybe you could call ahead and ask someone about the procedures. Or if you're pretty sure you're going to be admitted, you might pack a few clothes and go ahead and arrange care for the cats.
>
> What happens to you? I assume a battery of blood tests are performed and also a psych and med eval. Anything else? How long is an average stay? Do you have freedom of movement, can you have a visitor, do you wear your own clothes? These may seem like silly questions, but I am terrified... both of going and of not going. Dammit I am so tired of this never-ending cycle...Usually, you get a basic physical with blood tests and an EKG and everything. You also get a battery of psychological tests and evaluations with a psychologist. There is usually a social history taken by a social worker-from a family member if one is available or from you.
Stays are not nearly as long as they once were. I would guess most people stay 5-10 days more or less.Usually the unit is locked but there is freedom of movement within that area (typically day room,TV room, kitchen, your room ).
You can have visitors and use the telephone during certain hours with your doctor's permission.You wear your own clothes (not pajamas). There are usually scheduled classes or therapy groups several times a day. Stress reduction or sometimes music or arts and crafts.
I don't think you have to be worried about being treated roughly or put in restraints or anything.
If they should decide you were actively suicidal,they would probably have you sleep near the nurses station and stay in sight. It's not terribly humiliating or anything. I don't really know what to say. About a month ago Harry B. wrote about his stay in a hospital, maybe you can go back and find his posts. He had a good experience.I understand how you feel and do wish you good luck. O.
poster:Oddzilla
thread:36182
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000603/msgs/36190.html