Myths and Facts About Inpatient Psychiatric Care
Fact: When you sign paperwork to enter an inpatient psychiatric unit, you are signing a 201 voluntary commitment. There is no length of time attached to signing this form. There is something called a 72-hour notice, which can be signed by people who have been voluntarily committed once they arrive at the unit. A misconception occurs when people sign paperwork while in the emergency department, thinking it is a 72-hour notice when it is just admission paperwork.
Fact: The goal of medication is to stabilize symptoms and for you to continue experiencing your emotions. There should not be extreme long-lasting exhaustion, but you may be tired when medication is started.
Fact: If you sign yourself into the hospital, it is all confidential and does not go on any permanent record that would prevent you from obtaining a job. If you are placed on an involuntary commitment, it also does not go on your record but would prohibit you from being able to purchase a firearm, which would impact your ability to become a police officer or join the military.
Fact: These terms are what leads to the stigma related to mental health treatment. Mental illnesses are common in the United States. It is estimated that more than one in five U.S. adults live with a mental illness (57.8 million in 2021). It takes a strong person to seek the care they need to function at their best.
Fact: There are many levels of care. Inpatient hospitalization is utilized when a person is a danger to self or others or is unable to care for themselves. Partial hospitalization is a five-day-a-week program, approximately six hours each day, and the patient can be home at night. Intensive outpatient tends to be three hours a day, approximately three days a week. Straight outpatient would involve seeing a therapist weekly and a psychiatrist monthly.
Fact: Common signs of mental health issues include:
- Extreme mood swings
- Changes in eating habits
- Excessive worry or fear
- Problems concentrating
- Avoiding friends or social activities
Mental health treatment can assist in all symptoms preventing you from being able to function to the best of your abilities.
Fact: The earlier you seek help, the faster you will experience relief. Some medications take time to be effective, so the sooner they are started, the quicker you will have relief. You do not need to struggle when there is help available.
Personal Belongings
To maintain a safe environment for patients and staff, certain items are not permitted on the inpatient behavioral health unit. If you happen to bring any of these items with you, they will be stored securely throughout your admission.
These items are not permitted throughout hospitalization on the behavioral health unit:
- Cellphones and other technological devices
- Keys
- Purses
- Hats
- Sunglasses
- Clothes with hoods or strings (sweatshirts, hoodies, pants with drawstrings, etc.)
- Clothing with any sharp objects
- Shoes with laces
- Outside food or drinks
Personal belongings that are permitted on this unit:
- Clothing for three days of changes
Laundry rooms with washers and dryers are available for patient use.