I have a seious, honest question about mental hospitals/clinics. Have you been to one?

Question

I have been really depressed for about 5 years and its just getting worse and worse. i think its more than depression and Im seriously considering checking myself into a mental hospital.

can you tell me what it was like for you and ARE YOU DESCRIMINATED AGAINST FOR IT. thats what im really worried about.

Answer 1

Please don't let discrimination deter you in any way thats minor compared to your health. 5years? Please seek help now. If you've come to this conclusion there is definitely something wrong! Don't hesitate. Been there done that........

Answer 2

if you need help go for it ..ive been im one for depression and they get me help and tell me how to deal with things i was in one for a month when i was in middle school

Answer 3

I am a social worker in an inpatient psychiatric facility.  Sounds like you are suffering from some sort of depression.  It is, of course, impossible and unethical to diagnose via online communication.  There is a condition, called Dysthymia, which is a low grade, yet chronic depression.  Some people, for an unknown reason (possibly related to an imbalance of neurotransmitters) have feelings of depression more so than other people.  This starts to become problematic when it interferes with your daily functioning.  Signs of distress could be.....weight loss, weight gain, suicidal ideation, inability to concentrate, crying for no known reason, insomnia, sleeping too much, loss of interest, etc.  

I would recommened that you see a therapist on an outpatient basis to assist you with what you are going through.  Where you would go would depend upon if your insurance will cover it.  If you do not have insurance, then find a clinic with a sliding fee scale.  

Inpatient psychiatric hospitals will only admit a patient who is a threat to themselves or others, meaning you are suicidal or homicidal.  Yes, this will follow you when you apply for life insurance, medical insurance, etc.  Though if you really do need the help....who cares about potential discrimination.  Get the help you need to get healthy!  Best of luck!  

Answer 4

There are private hospitals and state run hospitals. It all depends on your insurance. No one needs to know your story when you are released it is your business. You are brave and smart enough to realize that you are in need of help and that is all that matters. There are many programs which operate on an out patient basis. It is not for everyone. There are also programs which start off as in patient and after a few weeks go to an out patient program. Most of this will depend on your insurance. Most of my experience with these facilities are as an EMT, transporting patients to and from and having friends who have been patients in state facilities. You can begin with you primary doctor and be sure to be honest about the severity of the situation. If you feel it is falling on deaf ears you can go t the ER. Most ERs are equipped to deal with psych emergencies. You will be admitted there for 24-48 hours for evaluation and then referred to a program, again according to your insurance and you needs.

With an in patient program it is a dorm like set up. Very regimented. There is group therapy as well as one on one. Many rules. Scheduled meals and activities. You will be put on a regiment of medications but not like 40-50 years ago where patients were left catatonic.

I commend you for realizing you need help, for admitting to yourself that it maybe time. Good luck and God Bless.