I am Feeling Suicidal; What Will Happen if I Go to the Hospital?
We hear that you are struggling and want to help you get the resources you need. Here are some options:
Talk on the phone with a crisis counselor by calling 988
Text a crisis counselor by texting HOME to 741741
Understanding the Hospitalization Process
Hospitalization for psychiatric reasons often occurs when someone is a danger to themselves or others, or when they are unable to take care of their basic needs. There are usually three ways that someone can be hospitalized: 1) they were brought in by police or ambulance, 2) they voluntarily took themselves to the emergency room, or 3) a friend or family member took them to the emergency room. Understanding what happens during this process can reduce some of the anxiety and fear surrounding it.
Step 1: The Emergency Department
Upon arrival at the emergency department, the first step is triage, where a nurse assesses the urgency of your condition. This initial evaluation helps prioritize your needs. Given the nature of suicidal ideation, you will be seen promptly to ensure your safety.
You will be asked to provide information about your current mental state, any previous mental health issues, and your reasons for feeling suicidal. This can be a difficult conversation, but it's essential to be honest so that the healthcare providers can offer the best possible care.
Following this, you might undergo a physical examination to rule out any medical conditions that could be contributing to your mental state. Blood tests or other diagnostic procedures may also be conducted.
Step 2: Psychiatric Evaluation
A mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or a psychiatric nurse, will then conduct a more in-depth psychiatric evaluation. This assessment includes discussing your thoughts, feelings, and behavior patterns. The goal is to understand the severity of your suicidal ideation, any potential triggers, and to evaluate your overall mental health.
During this evaluation, you may be asked to fill out questionnaires or undergo a mental status examination, which helps in assessing your mood, thought processes, and cognitive function. This evaluation is crucial for determining the appropriate level of care and intervention.
Step 3: Decision on Admission
Based on the psychiatric evaluation, the mental health professional will determine whether hospitalization is necessary. If you are considered to be at high risk of harming yourself or others, admission to a psychiatric unit is likely.
If hospitalization is deemed necessary, the healthcare team will explain the process to you, including the expected length of stay and what to expect during your time in the hospital. If you are admitted voluntarily, you will need to sign consent forms agreeing to the treatment plan.
Step 4: Inpatient Psychiatric Unit
Once admitted to the psychiatric unit, you will be introduced to the unit's rules and routines. You will have a private or semi-private room and access to common areas for group activities. The hospital staff will ensure your safety by monitoring you closely and removing any items that could be used for self-harm.
Your treatment plan will include various forms of therapy, such as individual counseling, group therapy, and medication management. The goal is to stabilize your condition, address the underlying issues contributing to your suicidal thoughts, and develop coping strategies to manage your mental health.
Step 5: Treatment and Support
In the hospital, you will work with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, nurses, and social workers. This team will provide comprehensive care tailored to your needs. Treatment may involve:
Medication Management: Psychiatric medications may be prescribed to help manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions. (Visit miresource.com to find a psychiatrist who takes your insurance)
Therapy: Individual therapy sessions with a psychologist or therapist will help you explore the underlying causes of your suicidal thoughts and develop strategies for coping and recovery. ( miresource.com can help you find an in-network therapist).
Group Therapy: Participating in group therapy sessions can provide support from others experiencing similar challenges and offer a sense of community.
Family Involvement: Family therapy or meetings with your loved ones may be encouraged to improve communication and support systems.
Step 6: Discharge Planning
As you begin to stabilize, the healthcare team will start planning for your discharge. This process involves creating a comprehensive aftercare plan to ensure you continue to receive support and treatment after leaving the hospital. Key components of discharge planning include:
Follow-Up Appointments: Scheduling follow-up appointments with outpatient mental health providers, such as therapists and psychiatrists.
Medication Management: Ensuring you have prescriptions for any necessary medications and understand how to take them.
Support Networks: Identifying support networks, including family, friends, and support groups, to help you maintain your mental health.
Crisis Plan: Developing a crisis plan that outlines steps to take if you experience a mental health crisis in the future.
Step 7: Aftercare and Long-Term Support
After leaving the hospital, it's crucial to continue with your treatment plan and engage in ongoing mental health care. This may include:
Regular Therapy Sessions: Ongoing therapy can help you continue to work through your issues and develop coping strategies. For help finding mental health care, try using free provider finders like miresource.com.
Medication Adherence: Taking prescribed medications as directed is essential for managing your mental health condition.
Support Groups: Joining support groups for individuals with similar experiences can provide ongoing encouragement and understanding.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep, can support your overall mental well-being.
Conclusion
Seeking help when feeling suicidal is a brave and crucial step towards recovery. Understanding the hospitalization process can alleviate some of the fear and uncertainty associated with seeking emergency psychiatric care. Remember, you are not alone, and there is a network of healthcare professionals dedicated to helping you through this difficult time. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, don't hesitate to reach out for help. Your safety and well-being are paramount, and support is available to guide you towards recovery and a healthier future.
