inpatient hospital questions

[BonBon]

I've recently been diagnosed with major depressive disorder, GAD, and possible bipolar as it runs in the family, but they don't want to diagnose it as I'm still fairly young. After a fairly severe suicidal patch for about 2 weeks when my parents were constantly observing me, my psychiatrist said that if it were to happen again I'd have to go to the hospital for a few days or a weeks. I flatly refused, but he (kindly) put it that I wouldn't really have a choice. He kind of manipulated it into it being like "it would make your parents less worried/give them a break" because he knows that strikes a chord.

I have a huge irrational fear of hospitals.
I just have a couple questions to anyone out there willing to answer them. Whats the difference between going to a mental institution and going to just like the hospital for being suicidal and needing to be under observation? Can they legally do it without my consent (I'm almost 15) Does it go on any records? If so, who would have access to those records?
Also, a super vague one because I guess it will vary, but what are hospital inpatient place things typically like? the one i'd be admitted to is a womens and childrens public hospital.
I'm just trying to....rationalize all this, even though it scares the hell out of me.
thank you!

[PassedExpectations]

well, inpatient units are generally locked and for short stays. the one i went to was all inside, and there wasn't a ton to do, but they kept me safe until i settled down a bit. if you do go, you need to make an effort to use every resource available so that you get something out of it. they can do it without your consent, though if possible it is definitely best to go voluntarily, it gives you more control once you get there... mental institutions like you've seen in movies aren't realistic really, at least not usually. (there may be some, but they aren't for short stays, they are more for really severe psychosis and stuff, or violent patients). theres certainly not any of the horror stories like ice baths and stuff, thats all outdated. you'll have little freedom, and they search your stuff, but if you don't cause trouble they generally treat you really nicely and try their best to be helpful. if you are on one to one observation, which means that someone has to stay within arms length of you at all times it can get awkward (bathrooms/showers) but they are professional about it and try to make it as painless as possible... i don't know about the records question, but that would be a really good thing to ask your doctor about. usually children and adolescents will have a separate ward from adults, so i'd expect that you'd be with people around your age. it is good to interact with people, but don't get too attached as everyone is in a bad place, and you need to focus on getting yourself better.

the place that i went that really helped me was a residential treatment facility, which is longer term, but has more programming, more freedom, and is really aimed towards recovery not stabilization.

[Bellatrix]

I find it's understandable to be a bit unsure about hospitals - who likes being locked up?! I think it's important for you to keep moving forward with the thought that hospital may be an option, but NOT an definitive eventuality. You may not end up needing it but walking into this thinking, 'I will end up in hospital' often leads to you suffering more!

Your questions:
Yes they can section you and treat you without your consent - it is always best to go in voluntarily though as you get more say in your treatment and having a section on your records can make it harder to get certain jobs. Observation tends to be what it sounds like - they keep an eye and maybe try different treatments. If you're suicidal, it will aim to keep you safe until you are able to be treated in the community. Your doctors, psychiatrist and anyone you give permission to (ie for occupational health when you go to work) will have access to your records.


Hospitals vary. The first one I was in was like a stereotypical asylum! It was so scary. The one I've most recently been in was much better with an onsite occupational therapist so you could go and do activities (I didn't get to as I was on a section and not allowed off hospital grounds so I can't comment on what it's like) and things with trained staff. You also have a named nurse each shift and they should introduce themselves to you (or have it written on a board) so if you need a 1-1 chat you can approach your named nurse. There would also be an overseeing nurse responsible for all your care whilst in hospital. Ward round tends to be twice a week where the doctors/psychiatrists meet with you to talk about your treatment options.

Really, hospital is just there to keep people safe, or to diagnose a mental illness that needs treatment. It's not a fun place but if it's necessary you can get the most out of it by working with staff.

Hope that helps. Any more questions, let us know :)