If you’re experiencing a mental health crisis, inpatient care could help you get through the challenges you’re facing. In this guide, we’ll answer some common questions, such as how to check into a mental hospital and how long an inpatient mental health stay is likely to be.
Understanding What Inpatient Treatment Involves
A stay at an inpatient psychiatric hospital typically involves taking some time off work and checking in for an extended stay. If you’re able to do so, it’s a good idea to inform your employer and your friends and family and to take care of any legal or financial obligations so you’re ready to focus on your recovery without distractions.
While you’re staying at the facility, you’ll spend your time in therapy, learning skills or engaging in other scheduled activities, and have your dietary and medical needs taken care of. An inpatient psychiatric care facility offers a calm, safe and distraction-free environment designed to remove as many barriers to recovery as possible.
How to Check Into a Mental Hospital
For someone dealing with a mental health crisis, knowing how to check into a mental health hospital may seem like an insurmountable challenge. In 2022, 15.4 million American adults were living with a serious mental illness. In spite of this high number, many people still feel a stigma associated with mental health issues. However, it’s important to remember that inpatient care teams are there to support people, not judge.
When you contact an inpatient psychiatric facility, the admission team will provide advice and information to help you prepare for your stay. They understand people may not know what to expect and will be happy to answer any questions you might have.
What to Pack and How to Prepare Logistically
Before you start packing, check your intake pack or ask the admission team for a list of things not allowed in a mental hospital, as well as items you can bring to make yourself feel as comfortable as possible.
The facility will usually provide essentials such as bedding and toiletries. You may need to bring:
- Clothing
- Your preferred brand of toiletries
- Books or magazines
- Important ID or health insurance documents
- Essential medication (and prescription details for refills if required)
- Your debit or credit card
Managing Expectations and Emotional Readiness
Checking into a mental hospital can be a stressful experience, but knowing what to expect can make the process go more smoothly. To reduce any feelings of stress and anxiety, try to prepare yourself by:
- Learning as much as possible about the treatment program, including how long it typically lasts, what it involves and what will happen in the first few days of your stay
- Talking to friends and family members before you seek treatment so they are aware of what’s going on and can support you throughout the process
- Taking time to handle any urgent business before you check in so you’re not distracted by worrying about what’s happening in the outside world
- Practicing basic so you’re as physically and mentally healthy as possible before you check in
- Asking questions about aspects of the process you’re nervous about so you can set realistic expectations and allay any fears
Your stay at a mental health facility can help you address a lot of challenges, including depression, anxiety, stress and substance abuse. However, it isn’t a magical cure-all, and recovery is an ongoing process. You may find your path to recovery has ups and downs. Understand you might relapse at some point, and you may have to make some major changes, especially if you have people in your life who aren’t supportive of your recovery.
With proper support from mental health professionals, as well as good friends and family members, you can improve your mental health and well-being.
Talking to Loved Ones Before You Go
If you have supportive family members or close friends, talk to them about the challenges you’re facing and explain your decision to check into an inpatient psychiatric hospital. You may find it helpful to have people you trust handle your affairs while you’re in the hospital. Simply knowing there are people who are aware of your struggle and eager to see you get better may help you on your recovery journey.
Talk to your loved ones and care team about having visitors while you’re an inpatient. Some facilities encourage visitors, but others prefer people to have limited contact with the outside world during the initial stages of their recovery. By discussing these issues before you check in, both you and your loved ones will know what to expect and no one will be stressed, confused or anxious during your stay.
Tips for a Smoother Transition into Treatment
If you’re a young person without family or work obligations, you may be able to contact a treatment center and check in immediately. For those with obligations, however, the process can be more challenging.
If you’ve been working for your current employer for at least a year, you may be entitled to up to 12 weeks of medical leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act. You can take advantage of this to receive care in a mental hospital and return to your job once your leave is over.
If you’re concerned about paying for treatment, ask your provider to check if inpatient care is covered by your health insurance policy. They may be able to assist with financial aid or a sliding fee scale for low-income or underinsured individuals, making it easier for you to access care.
Making the Most of Your Inpatient Stay
Once you’ve checked in to a mental hospital, do your best to work with your care team. Answer their questions honestly, and try the treatments they suggest with an open mind. It can be difficult to trust the process, especially if you’re living with depression or anxiety or have a dual diagnosis. However, mental health care professionals have many years of experience helping people recover from addiction and mental health crises, and they can help you too.
Contact Restore Mental Health today to take the first step toward recovery. Our compassionate, experienced therapists and mental health experts are here to support you.
