I stayed in a Crisis House last year. Previously, I have had many stays on psychiatric wards, and so when my local MH service set up a crisis house, I was relieved as it was a better option for me.
I'm not sure if they are all the same, but the one I was in was much more homely than a hospital environmnet, and all single rooms with a couple of communal areas with tvs and sofas. I was allowed to come and go whenever I wanted, but was expected to let the staff know. So I was able to carry on with my usual activities while I was there; in fact they actively encouraged it. So maybe you will still be able to go to college - it's worth discussing it with someone.
There were staff there 24 hours a day, and if I felt I needed to talk, they were very approachable. The other peopel staying there were ok, some were quite withdrawn, others more sociable. As no-one was detained under section, they tend to be more "well" than people I'd been on the wards with, with a wide spectrum of problems, from depression to schizophrenia to bipolar disorder.
Meals were provided -unfortunately it was the same food we had on the hospital wards which I didn't like, but they had a microwave and fridge so I bought my own food. However, someone else I know stayed in a crisis house where a chef cooked fresh food which apparantly was really good.
It was generally quiet and a time to get away from a stressful situation in my life. I was able to stay 2 weeks maximum, but that was enough for me. While I was there I had regular reviews and they also help to refer people to other mh services and support if appropriate.
I hope you find the crisis house helpful and that it will be a positive experience.
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