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I Was Recently Admitted To A Psychiatric Hospital And I Thought I’d Share My Experience
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I Was Recently Admitted To A Psychiatric Hospital And I Thought I’d Share My Experience

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Back at the start of January, I found myself in a situation I had not been in for 2 years. After a period of decline in my mental health, I became very unwell.

I noticed I was spiraling down and sought support from A&E and mental health teams. After a while, they assessed that I was unsafe to stay at home. My partner and I waited for a little bit of time for the crisis team to find me a bed. Within a couple of hours, they rang to say they had found me a bed and I was admitted to the mental health assessment unit at our local hospital.

I was lucky in this aspect. Many times it can be a real struggle to get a bed. I was also lucky that my stay was relatively short and I am now back at home, awaiting support from community mental health.

I thought I would share my experience with you so that maybe I can break some of the stigma and perhaps give people a bit more insight. Hospital is often not as bad as many films and hearsay make it out to be. I want to spread the message that it’s okay to need extra support at times.

My hope is that reading this will empower people to speak out about their circumstances.

This is the room I was given, which was actually pretty comfortable. It was a little bit hot because I couldn’t turn off the radiator and my window barely opened more than an inch, for obvious safety reasons.

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It was a basic room with lots of space, probably a bit too much for me, but it was meant to be wheelchair-accessible. They’ve tried to put an inspirational quote there, but it sort of peeled off.

Notice the plug sockets? I thought they were a bit redundant since I was not allowed any wires, because of the ligature risk. They’re actually for the domestic team to clean. There’s not a lot of places to tie anything onto; even the toilets don’t have proper seats.

Here’s a little glance outside my room and into the corridor. You can sort of see a tiny courtyard you can go out into during the day.

To the left, there was the nurse’s office and beyond that, the door to the outside world. I was in a locked ward, so even though I was an informal patient I couldn’t leave without being seen by a doctor.

You had to be careful because if you tried to leave that way, I’ve heard stories people being sectioned. Which means you could be held there against your will, for your own safety. This shouldn’t happen to you if you can prove you’re safe enough to be discharged. You will have to wait to speak to a doctor though.

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The other way down the corridor. Behind that plastic window covered in drawings is the dining room. It’s open most of the day. There are tables where I spent a lot of time coloring and talking to other patients.

Also, I don’t know if you can see it, but in the top right corner, there’s a little round mirror. That’s for the nurses so they can see what’s going on around the corner. It’s actually a safety measure for them, but I used it to see how long the queue for medications was, whilst standing by my door.

This is a very small section of the day room, where we could come to watch TV. It’s much bigger, but I didn’t want to take any pictures of other people, because it’s illegal and they deserve their privacy.

You would absolutely love the terrible box the TV was encased in. They’d lost the remote controller so the only way we could change the channel was to find someone with slender arms. Also yes, that is Jeremy Kyle…

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Back to my room. I got a sort of wardrobe thing to store my stuff.

I’m not really sure what the bit on the left is, because you clearly can’t hang anything up or it would be a ligature risk, once again.

I spent a lot of time rearranging it, when I got bored. There weren’t a lot of activities. This is probably because it was a short term ward and funding cuts have really taken their toll on the NHS.

So these are things the hospital provides. Pyjamas (I bring my own), shampoos, shower gel, a stress ball and that’s a bag of lavender I got from the relaxation lady (one of the only activities left).

Also there’s a little care plan they gave me to fill in, which was useful to evaluate my progress and helped me feel more involved in my care.

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I always bring my own toiletries. If you’re a woman, you need to bring your own sanitary products as they don’t give them out in most parts of the NHS (thanks to underfunding). You won’t be allowed any sprays, so pack a roll-on deodorant.

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I brought in my own entertainment, because I’ve been an inpatient enough times to know how boring it can be.

There’s a big word search book I always bring, a book I can get lost in and I also keep a journal. The journalling really helped me to grasp exactly what was going on with my emotions and how I was progressing. You wouldn’t always be allowed a pen unsupervised on all wards, but mine was relatively relaxed about this.

The green thing is called a tangle; it’s a twisty fidgety thing, which helps with anxiety.

On the third day, I had a meeting with the psychiatrist that didn’t go well. I felt like he wasn’t listening to anything I was saying and my anger got the better of me. I ended up storming out of the room. I spent the rest of the afternoon sobbing.

When one of the nurses came to check on me, she took my shoelaces off of me. I think she thought I might try and use them to ligature. I spent the rest of the week feeling a bit ridiculous. Amazingly they stayed on my feet though.

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Here are a few arty things. The one on the left isn’t my art, I just colored it in. The creepy thing in the middle is my own creation. The picture of the bat was a gift from one of the other girls, who was drawing pictures of people’s favorite things to cheer them up.

Most of the other patients were really lovely and supportive. The same goes for the staff; their biggest crime was probably being overworked and tired. I felt sorry for one nurse, who was on her fifth long shift in a row.

This creepy drawing is based-off a weird delusion I sometimes have about 4th-dimensional beings, that are watching everything I do as though I’m some sort of experiment or subject.

It’s normally triggered when I’m under a lot of stress. The delusions were not why I was in the hospital, though. I’m diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder and I was in a period of deep depression and had been actively suicidal.

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I’m feeling a lot better now and hope to return to work in a few weeks time.

I really wanted to give people a look into what it’s like to be admitted to a mental health unit so that maybe others don’t feel embarrassed to talk about it.

I’m so glad that I was supported by others to seek help in such a desperate time and I’m really grateful I’m still here.

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lamimada avatar
Robin Sánchez
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for sharing. I hope the stigma is obliterated so that the world understands that mental health is as important as physical health. Be well.

josephine_anderson avatar
Josephine Anderson
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I am a nurse working in mental health hospitals. I know that no-one chooses to be with us, but I try hard to treat everyone with respect. I am sorry that you did not feel respected during your mental health crisis. Wards are awful, but as you point out, they are like that for a reason.

raspberrycupcake69 avatar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The sad thing is that the people like you who actually care, end up tired, overworked and stressed. But, you are doing a wonderful job and I have the utmost respect for you. Thank you for helping and giving it your all.

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daniellerux avatar
Danielle Rux
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

when i was put on suicide watch since im a child they supplied everything and i couldnt have my phone hoodies shoes or hardback books because of past kids harming themselves with stuff like that and the no phone rule was for privacy all the chairs and tables were weighted down and the doors didnt lock the beds were naled to the ground and the curtains were velcrowed so you couldnt hang yourself we had to wear socks and clothes with no hoods or strings and they always checked our pockets im lucky i only stayed for a week because i missed going outside they didnt let us out because it was cold and rainy but we did go to a gym and the person there made us exersise to sunshine lolipops and rainbows bc its a happy song but i hate it so much i wanted to punch her while i was there they discovered i have insomnia and bipolar disorder it took them 2 monthes to actually find out i had deppression im typing this from school and im having a good day due to my depression meds i hope your stay was

dariab_1 avatar
Daria B
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I think this is a very important post. People are afraid of what they don't know. Fear creates stigma and even hatred. These images let you see, they let you know, let you understand. These images may help people who've been reluctant to asking for help to actually picture themselves within these pictures, and maybe get the encouragement they need to do the big step towards health.

annakat314 avatar
Kat
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Wow I'm so grateful for this post and you. I've been in one 3 times. All severe depression. Full of shame about it. I love that you put this out there. Thank you. And please hold on. I will if you will

djware avatar
Juliet Ware
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for sharing this. I hope you continue to get better. Take care brave lady xx

cathyroberts avatar
Wanda Queen
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You were aware of how bad things were getting and you took steps to take care of yourself......that alone is commendable. And now you've made this for us to see and it's definitely made me realize how badly we need to change our perceptions -- it's a hospital, like any other, and being admitted to it should be as natural and shame free as being admitted for a broken leg. So, you made that change in my mind. You did that, you have good things to offer.....keep breathing. ;)

susan_41 avatar
Susan Westmoreland
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

In the US you don't keep your phone. If you need a number you stand at the nurse's station and write it down and give the phone back. You get small cups of shampoo(only baby shampoo so you can't drink it) and conditioner when you're taking a shower. There is no courtyard or outside time at all. There is MAYBE two s****y books so when someone brings your clothes hopefully they bring some. But then you have to be careful that residents don't steal them.

monika-soffronow avatar
Monika Soffronow
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

How are you even supposed to get better if you are not allowed outside???????????????????????????????

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jonnie-dore avatar
Idont Know
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I suffer from BPD, though I've never gone in for overnight care. I know I should, but I won't. I definitely struggle. I can't eat around others or be around those that are eating, people chewing gum will cause me to not eat upwards of a week at a time. I HAVE to sleep with headphones in. I really can't function without at least having them on me, knowing I have an escape. This includes any and all shopping, eating out, even hearing my horses eat. I also have such a major fear of doctors I'll black out, sometimes it's attacking them, usually it's fainting or attacking myself. I can't get help because of how my disorder effects me.

monika-soffronow avatar
Monika Soffronow
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Please be more open with your debilitating struggles. It does not have to be like this. You really need to find a psychiatrist that you feel that you can trust. If you are not communicating well with one, then find another. Picture yourself enjoying life fully, it truly is worth it getting the help you need to get well. A person with diabetes takes insulin, a person with thyroid issues takes hormones. All too often, when there are biochemical issues within our brains, we demand of ourselves, or of others that they "just get up! You can walk if you want to!" when they have been hit by a bus on the road and have a broken leg. There is proper care to heal that broken leg in the mind/brain. Please seek help.

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nellahokkanen avatar
Kesyra
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for sharing. I know how the inside of a mental institution looks like but it's good that others see it too. It's not a horror movie thing, the nurses are there to help you and keep you safe. Good luck in the future with your BPD, it's a b***h sometimes but it's very possible to learn to live with it, as are most if not all mental illnesses. To everyone: If you're unwell, whatever reason, seek help.

nikkid avatar
Nikki D
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There is no cameraderie like that found on the psych ward. The instant Bond of "hey, we're all crazy here!" Is indescribable. I have never felt so welcomed and at home while simultaneously wanting to get out more than anything. Almost two decades later and sometimes I miss it in the absolute strangest way.

t_janine avatar
Toni Tangents
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The friends I made there, we will be friends forever. During my manic highs on the ward, I felt like an ecstatic child on a school trip or something, surrounded by friends!!

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lgujsv avatar
Gipsy Kings fan
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for having the courage to share. I have bipolar disorder, and used to work for a peer support organization that was ostensibly run by mental health clients, but we were really a subsidiary of a larger organization that controlled everything. Although our boss was a person with schizophrenia himself, he didn’t want “one of us” to be the office manager, so he hired a woman without a mental condition to do the job. She acted “nice” much of the time, but was very patronizing and enjoyed undermining people’s reputations. Your shoelaces story reminds me of something that happened at my job. We had a Christmas gift giveaway for support club members. I saw a group of staff members in the office removing the drawstrings from of dozens of pairs of sweatpants. I was new at the time, so I asked why; they said it was so the people couldn’t hang themselves. I said, “Why not give them sweatshirts instead?” The office manager said, “They like the sweatpants.”

raspberrycupcake69 avatar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Sounds like she wasn't great to have around. I find it interesting that your boss didn't at least chose someone who had suffered in the past.

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flash_henry avatar
Flash Henry
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I wish we had more places like this in the US. My health insurance won't cover pretty much anything psychiatric. If I so much as look a mental health facility for too long, I'll get a bill for $20,000.

monika-soffronow avatar
Monika Soffronow
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

As I have said before, I have zero, nil, no understanding whatsoever why Americans are accepting the incredibly backward healthcare system you have. Universal healthcare is a no-brainer. It simply makes sense. Unless you own an insurance company...

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rachelle avatar
Rachelle
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for sharing your experience! I was "admitted" involuntarily a few years ago as a result of a suicide attempt in relation to my ongoing struggles with BPD. I was cleared for release within two days but stayed voluntarily for a month - it was one was the most helpful, times of my life. Where I'm from they separate us into 3 wards - one for people like me (low risk); the second is for moderate cases, usually recurring patients who may pose a minor threat to themselves others; and the third was for severe psychotic/schizophrenic individuals who were at high risk of self or otherly harm. We all had the option to go to group sessions & art therapy throughout the day, free gym hour, along with doctor & nurse sessions daily & access to tv & a recumbent bike & elliptical. All in all - helpful, but after care was a nightmare. Group therapy, life skills lessons, CBT, DBT (which I waited over 3 years to get into, but is the only recognized program for BPD sufferers) The battle continues

dankerlau avatar
Missus Magoo
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have an adult child how has been sectioned twice, she gets treated well and then she's let out. Eventually she stops taking her medication due to massive weight increases and becomes very very poorly again. She's a different person without her medication and someone I don't recognise or particularly like. Her mental health makes her turn on her closest family and she says the most terrible things you could imagine. When she's on her medication it's like I have my old girl back again. I love her dearly but now I am older I can no longer take the constant abuse and also at times physical attacks. The NHS staff are wonderful and so overwhelmingly against the odds. I'm glad you recognise when you need help and you seek it before it becomes too damaging for you and your loved ones. Best of luck x

cathyroberts avatar
Wanda Queen
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thanks so much for sharing this. It should be as easy and stigma free as being admitted to a medical hospital for any physical illness.

miklosnagy avatar
Miklós Nagy
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Am I the only one who find it weird that you are worrying about 4th dimensional beings watching you but you share your life throught the social media with millions of 3 dimensional beings?

raspberrycupcake69 avatar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Mental health can be weird like that. It's not a delusion I have all the time and I don't believe it most days. Only when I become more unwell. For the most part I'm annonymous on here so I am less worried. Good question though.

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rhon avatar
Rhon
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you so much for sharing your experience! This is such a helpful article.

tlilly avatar
Gracie Mae
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

thank you for this--you seem to be dealing with your situation well. i'm big on journals myself; a good source of reflection when you can read it at a later date & figure out what things you need to work on for your peace of mind. being trained in working with the mentally ill, it is amazing the things that most people wouldn't think twice about that can be used to injure yourself. once had a male bite a chunk out of his wrist & use a PLASTIC spoon to dig out the inside...

tldragon avatar
TL Dragon
Community Member
5 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's not like this in the US. Not being contrary, just warning US folks your experience will be more like a jail inmate than this. If you actually attempt suicide and land yourself in the ward you can often expect a suicide watch. It can be anything from a tech 5 feet or less for a determined amount of time or 30 minute checks. If you act out or attempt to harm yourself 4 point restraining IS ON THE table...well bed. Rubber rooms are also a thing and if you think the ward sucks that room sucks 100 times more. The better your insurance the longer your stay generally speaking applies as well.

t_janine avatar
Toni Tangents
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is sad. Patients are never tied down in the Uk. At the hospital I stayed in they told me they have a padded room but never need to use it.

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benicia_99 avatar
Azure Adams
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm a therapist and used to work inpatient units in hospitals. This one is a very nice looking one and you have your own room, compared to several I've worked in in the past. Inpatient stays are more often than not short-term so many activities and comforts are simply not there because of both funding cuts and because people do not live in hospitals or stay in them long term (court-ordered and involuntary is a different story). I work outpatient program now. This was a good article for people to see what hospitals units for psych are now and the realities instead of the assumptions and stigmas. Glad you are doing better and were proactive in getting help for yourself.

safygal avatar
Safy
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was admitted in 2016 for just a few days, but it was such a traumatic experience that I still suffer from - nightmares, flashbacks, and even this post, I can't bring myself to read it. Just seeing the picture I knew exactly what this was and where you were, and I immediately felt sick. While I didn't read everything, I do want to say that you are very brave to be so open and willing to share your experience.

monika-soffronow avatar
Monika Soffronow
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Hi Safy! Please keep in mind that the very reason that you were admitted to a psychiatric ward in the first place is probably the very reason you felt so bad. I hope you are well now, and continue to be so.

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jophj540 avatar
Jo Davies
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for sharing this :) Sharing experiences and having open non-judgemental conversations around mental health topics is essential for society to move forward and become more enlightened and compassionate. Thank you for being brave and sharing this experience. I have depression and anxiety :) xx

kbuchanan111072 avatar
Kimberly Buchanan
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Both times I was in a psych ward, we couldn't have our phones, had to take out shoelaces out or give them our shoes and they would give us these footie thingys. They supplied us with all personal stuff, no belts. If we wanted to shave, they would have to watch you shave. We wasn't allowed pens or pencils, we could only color. The staff was great except for one lady. The patients were great. And my psychologist is the best!! I have the right combination of medications now.

hamiltontrash36 avatar
Lizzie the Crayon
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm so grateful that you are on this Earth, and made this post. It raises awareness for people who are dealing with the same things you are, Out of the Darkness. I hope you feel better, and, stay away from those mediciences that cause suicidal thoughts/actions, lol. 👍 Loved this post feel better

lindaniemczyk7 avatar
Linda Niemczyk
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I volunteered myself to a mental health facility. It was the worst decision I ever made. The facility itself was fine. But I felt I was overmedicated by the doctor. Couldn't even walk I was so doped up. I'd rather die than to do that ever again.

r_gorse avatar
Ryan Gorse
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You don't really know what it's like, it sucked for me, all they did was use you to their own advantage, and completey ruin your life

g-pragasam avatar
sosunlight
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So sorry you experienced that, Ryan. Hope you're feeling better today <3

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Kris
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When are patients allowed to take photos of the facility? Is this in the US? My experiences were a bit different. I was tricked into my first hospitalization (having decent healthcare in the U.S. can mean being taken advantage of) and still have trauma and PTSD from it. Second was better, helped more but was still terrifying at first. Facilities were definitely not as nice. The nurses just want to help though. FYI - you can sign a document stating they can hold you for only ... 72 hours, I believe, and then you must be released when you are willingly admitted. When willingly admitted you can't sign yourself out whenever you want, though.

uif1 avatar
Deb Peddycoart
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for this post. As many have written, experiences vary widely. In the best places, the psych techs, nurses and doctors are compassionate and intend only to do good. Sometimes, while in the grasp of fearful and angry feelings, I know this does not seem true. If a person can be cared for on an outpatient basis with a strong safety net, that, imho, should be the first choice. If the inpatient care feels cold and too rule bound, try another place if possible. The reason for being inpatient should be safety fro self harm, respite from outside stress, med evaluation if needed and collaboration with you and the support staff to develop a recovery plan.

stacy avatar
Fixin'Ta
Community Member
5 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Good on you for sharing your experience and helping people see that it's maybe not so terrifying to be hospitalized, or at least you don't have to assume it's definitely going to be. I've never had to do this, though I have been close a couple of times. I'm proud of you for standing up tall and helping bring more awareness to the topic of mental illness/health. Best wishes to you for ongoing recovery.

sokching77 avatar
Desiré Yen
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was also admitted to a Mental health clinic last year December. I have major depression with severe panic attacks. My medication wasn't working and I was suicidal. The doc put me on lithium, and my mood lifted immediately, finally found my happy pill! I pray for those who are struggling with depression to get help. You are loved and very special.

michaellefrank avatar
Michaelle Patricia
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You did an amazing job of sharing the reality of mental health and the hospital experience you had. Thank you so much.

ilovetigerdhami avatar
LunarEssence
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was in a lovely hospital in southern california called Canyon Ridge. One of the best experiences in that situation

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Pierre Martin-Cocher
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you giving hope to those in need. You being struggling yet taking the time to help other went straight to my heart. I wish you a prompt recovery and the best in your life. You deserve it :-)

karenmariehair avatar
Karen Cordes
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I want help but I’m so afraid of the hospital not giving me my anxiety meds that I’m worried I would choose Suicide..

monika-soffronow avatar
Monika Soffronow
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Please find a psychiatrist you feel that you can trust. There is nothing wrong with shopping around for one. There is plenty of help available, but you have to look for it yourself. I wish you all the best, and that includes the courage to pick up the phone for an appointment! Be well.

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xaspsx
Community Member
5 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I also have borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety and PTSD (the last one due to a result of abusive practices by nhs and police) and am actively suicidal and not eating for days at a time, they wont hospitalise me ('if we helped everyone that was suicidal we'd be full/if you kill yourself then that's your decision because you have capacity/what are you doing to help yourself though') I have been in a deep hole since July and it took 7 months and a suicide attempt to even be referred to the community mental health team, who put me on a 5 month waiting list for basic counselling, then told me I won't be able to have it if I'm suicidal (I mean, they wouldn't even have seen me if I wasn't, my referral got rejected 5 times before I attempted) this has been going on 12 years for me, I'm 31 now and used to have so much potential...if I get too upset or agitated in a&e I usually end up arrested and subject to police brutality and the court system which I can't cope with at all.

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xaspsx
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Resisting being brutally restrained is assault of a PC, by the way. The only thing I can think of is to try to crowdfund for the medical care that might save my life, but to be honest, I don't have the energy, or the faith in people anymore, and have been told after a private assessement that I'm too complex to be treated in the community anyway. For every story of the lucky person that gets into hospital, how many stories are there like mine? For every harried but caring mental health professional, how many are deliberatly callous and cruel? It can't just be me. My story isn't uplifting enough to become an article, sometimes it doesn't matter how much you try to get help, sometimes hope is just something to be crushed over and over and over again.

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gabbyhansard104 avatar
G13
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You are getting out of your darkness, and that makes me very happy (:

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Kathy Flavin
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for being real- it happens to more people than imagined.

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Rubee Tubesteak
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you so, so much for sharing this! I hope you find wellness in your treatment, and I hope your story can help others. I truly think it will.

mburrow avatar
Missyblue
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for sharing. I spent a couple nights with my son in a ward when he was on suicide watch at 14 years old. I was impressed with the care he received. Yes the TV was boxed up and he wasn't allowed shoes at all. But for his own protection. The staff was beyond great. They were caring, respectful and knowledgeable. I thank them for helping my son through a very dark and scary period in his life.

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Gemma Lees
Community Member
5 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This made me cry but in a good way. I've been sectioned three times and had other experiences of inpatient treatment. I have BPD, OCD and anxiety with psychotic symptoms and tics and I only function as a wife, mother and person because I take antipsychotics, antidepressants and mood stabilisers. I'm currently in a mental health crisis now and my heart goes out to anyone else who is.

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Katie Kurek
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When I stayed the facility did not have separate rooms, shared dormitories are not good for recovery glad you had you own room my experience was much different

waihi avatar
My O My
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for sharing! Sad to hear that there are few to none activities provided for the patients. I hope this is going to change. Nothing worse then being depressed and having nothing to do

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Mrs Spencer
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have CPTSD and depression and I’m worried about speaking out about my depression because I have children and I’m scared they may try and take them even though I’d never hurt them or myself. I just feel sad and lonely inside myself and it sucks. My husband doesn’t really understand and says “Oh you’ll be fine later” and I don’t want to burden my mates in case they think it’s just me being dramatic. I hold back telling my trauma councillor a lot in case she thinks I’ll do something silly (Which I never would as I got my Babies to live for!). It’s lonely feeling like you have nobody who will understand you x

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sosunlight
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It can be a lonely road, particularly when your family doesn't understand. Hope you're able to find support. Thinking of you <3

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Kelly Hall
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for sharing, your story helped me understand, even if it is just a little bit. I hope you are feeling better.

point925l avatar
Douglas Campbell
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That is like a luxury boutique hotel. The psych wards that I've been (involuntarily) admitted to were medieval in comparison. I'm properly medicated and in treatment now, so hopefully I won't have to go there again, but if I do, I want it to be the one in your post.

elextech avatar
Vincent Jay
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Interesting. I recently came out of rehab after two surgeries on my foot. I can relate to some of what this author has posted.

monsa8 avatar
Monica small
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for sharing this post. I'm not sure what the state of the facilities are here in the US. Mental health is a tremendously underfunded and under addressed problem here. I have had times where I thought I could benefit from some help but I'm afraid of being detained against my will or being medicated and restrained. Thank you again for the courage to share your experience.

edc_82 avatar
Lola
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When are we finally going to realize and accept that the brain is an organ that needs just as much care as your other organs? It’s sad to hear that in this day and age, there is still a stigma associated with mental disorders. More often than not, countless lives are lost because people are too embarrassed to ask for help. And don’t even get me started on the movies that portray mental hospitals in hope to get more ratings. Thank you for sharing.

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Blondhorsecrazy
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The setting is a lot like the unit my sister was a patient at. She voluntarily went to sort thru some postnatal depression. Dont ever feel embarrassed to ask for help. We all need help at times in our lives...its showing how strong you are to actively seek help..

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Magpie
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

People with mental illnesses are so brave and so kind. * Thank you for showing us this. Wishing you well. ___________* my psychologist told me that. And she is right. You are brave and kind.

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Bob Beltcher
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Hope you're feeling better and you stay well for a long time. Glad you know how to recognize your situation and know how to get help. Thanks for sharing this inside look.

spiritwolf avatar
spirit wolf
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I wish you the speediest recovery and I leave you with the quote " Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times, if one remembers to turn on the light " - Albus Dumbledore

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Berna
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You are amazing. Thanks for sharing your story. You're in my thoughts. Berna

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Helen Wood
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

how did they take photos? you are not allowed personal items like phones and cameras

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Monika Soffronow
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Obviously, this differs from country to country, maybe even from ward to ward.

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Lotte Marshall
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for sharing such a destigmatising post. I would also add most places in England (sorry not sure about provision in other parts of the uk) inpatients can access free confidential advocacy support. This can be especially helpful in meetings with professionals such as the psychiatrists if you feel you aren't being listened to. If a patient is detained under the Mental Health Act they have a statutory right to an Independent Mental Health Advocate who as well as supporting with meetings etc can help with appealing against the section and the legal rights and implications . A summary of advocacy is to support people to have their wishes and feelings taken into account about decisions made about them. One of they key things is listening and the patient feeling that they are being heard. Although advocates can support challenges to the nhs the best approach is to aid communication so all parties feel they are understood. Xx

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Michaelle Patricia
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You did an amazing job of making this real and not scary. I don't have mental health issues, but have friends that do and a daughter who works in mental health so I appreciate you sharing your experience. Thank you!

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Sam Choudhry
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was recently admitted, now discharged to the same community team that admitted me-after being kept for 6 days without seeing a psychiatrist, doctor or any specialist. Lack of activities or group therapy was zero. They had a gym & games room but only let me out the day before being discharged for 10 minutes to walk round the building that’s it, the only fresh air I got in 6 days. The assessment, in my opinion, is unjustified & as a person who is involved in the MDT meeting I should have had a voice. My depression & suicide thoughts were much worse on discharge. It now doesn’t surprise me with why suicide statistics are much higher & people are failed when clearly help & resources are there.

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Zara Steele
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yo, I have a similar hallucination about seeing higher dimensional eyeballs in every surface Sometimes they are eyeballs, other times they are male/female deities locked in furious loving embrace

lmitchell1979 avatar
Laura Mitchell
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Ive been in and out of psych wards the past few years here in the states. Everyone's shoe laces are taken. Absolutely no phones allowed. Some allow tou outside on a courtyard some no outside time at all. Some seem to really care. Some are terrible to the patients.

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Nadia
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

First and foremost I must thank you for sharing your experience. I suffer from severe BPD and after a failed suicide attempt my mother couldnt handle me anymore so she took me to a general hospital in kandy, I was admitted there for a couple of days. I was among severe psychotic patients and the ward shared a dirty squat toilet. Facilites were limited and I begged the doctor to send me home and promised I would behave "normally". Mental health is not much known here, people think im going through a phase and im just been sad, which is not the case. They dont have rehab centres for depression, just a few and its not affordable. Anyways I figured I had to fix my life so I did alot of meditation, yoga,played music,drew art, met people and started travelling. Im currently raising awareness as a BPD advocate and trying to help as much as I can. I wish you well.

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Jonahs Mrs
Community Member
5 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you. This post shows more than anything the actual real life impact the cuts to funding for mental health have. For example the almost complete lack of therapy activities available, leaving vulnerable people(at their very possibly lowest point)with nothing but hour after hour of empty time with nothing to distract them from the thoughts that brought them to the hospital in the first place. It is a national disgrace that the services for mental health illnesses are being cut back to the bone. I'm happy that you are getting well now and that you are more positive about your future. I hope that this is the way your life/management of your illness continues for many many years I suffer from a mental health illness and when I'm asked about it, I tell people the truth, and I refuse to be ashamed about it. So many people are in need of education about mental health illnesses and the fact that it can be fatal. Once again thank you and best wishes for your future x

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CrazyCatLady
Community Member
5 years ago

This comment has been deleted.

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The Frog
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was in section year before last and 3 times up until October I'm surprised you were allowed to take those photos as we had to sign a document saying all photography and videos were banned from being taken from someone phone, however they (the staff) didn't give me or tell me about it the first time I was sectioned so I also have a load of pics on my phone. My room was slightly more up market people class it to a 5 star hotel as it's a new build with en suite bathroom and you have your own key card, pretty much they same layout though and nothing to do in there apart for a once a week activity group, and all phones and tablets to be charged in the office... and God help the staff if your equipment wasn't charged properly Haha, so yeah I can relate. I'm now on antipsychotics and doing great not hallucinated for 2 months now! I wish you well also xx

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Jurgis Vaiginis
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Your point of view is awesome - I only realized the reason why your where kept there when you wrote that eyes drawing does actually relate to your mental state. I find it really nice that you share such a things even despite me having no relations with this type of institution (in my country you may be not even taken for hospitality for such a disease since the whole treatment is a bit different)

t_janine avatar
Toni Tangents
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Great article. I have been sectioned twice in the UK myself, and in many ways, it's not as bad as people might fear. Having said that, it needs more money spent: I wasn't allowed out for 4 weeks at a time, and felt cooped up. The garden was tiny. The food wasn't nutritious. There was hardly anything to do. The staff were great though, and you form very strong bonds with fellow patients.

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Stina Kolling
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for sharing. Hope life gets better for you. Don't give up.

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Sian Edwards
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have a thing about eyes as well, especially if I'm unwell and experiencing sleep deprivation! Hope you are back on track now. BPD is such a pain in the bum sometimes! Just a suggestion (if you aren't already aware) get your thyroid and B12 levels checked regularly, because they can both cause similar symptoms to the depressive aspects of BPD, and exacerbate existing symptoms.

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Michèle Gyselinck
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have schizophrenia but have been in recovery for 12 years now. Oddly--or maybe not--I have never been committed to a psych ward during my psychotic episodes, but I was never dangerous. I only made one suicide attempt that basically consisted in walking to the edge of the nearest river with the intent of throwing myself in it, but when I saw how fast it flowed I hesitated. As I was a committed Christian at the time and still am, I felt God speaking to my heart and telling me not to go ahead with suicide, so I went back home instead and called my pastor. He was sympathetic and advised me to the my mom how I felt. I was 28 then. I'm 60 now. Hope you feel better.

msviv avatar
Ms Viv
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Uhh.. If This Were a real mental health facility there's no way you would have been able to have your phone with you. They wouldn't even let me have lipstick or mascara.

sian_edwards avatar
Sian Edwards
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Most general acute psychiatric units in the UK let you keep your phone, though the chargers usually get stored in a locked room due to being a ligature risk. You're not really supposed to take pictures but as there are no other people in the pics, nobody's privacy has been invaded. Personal items are risk assessed on arrival. Personally, I've never had shoelaces taken off me.

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Stormwatcher
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I hope more people begin to get rid of the stigma and stop bullying and hating others for things.

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Sheila Weila
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm glad your employer is understanding enough to hold your job for you.

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Bored Phoenix
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Wow. That sounds horrible. I’m 12 and had a bad bout of depression last year. I was lucky to get a nice hospital with kind people. The nurse were, anyway. The kids in there were nuts. 3 anger issue, 2 suicides, one hallucination, and me. It was wierd. Had to make sure I didn’t provoke someone. My roommate wouldn’t sleep without a light on.

ame_patd12 avatar
Ame Kimandia
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Hi! Thank you for this post, I'm really interested with the second draw, the one that you make. I feel super identify with that, I have the same feeling and meet some one that have the same though it's crazy. My biggest fear is going to a psychiatric hospital, I'm Mexican by the way, and things are different here. But well... I'm doing well. Thanks again!

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Irene Walton
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't know where you people ar, but, I've taken my adult son to the Pysch twice, Once he stayed for 3 days, the second time we sat in emergency for 11 HOURS then sent home. He was suicidal, alcoholic, depressed with anxiety. There isn't much help out there. This was in Vancouver BC

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sosunlight
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for sharing so honestly. Hope you're feeling better this week. Your colouring in is awesome, by the way! Thinking of you.

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Sarah Miller
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

How were you allowed to take pictures? I was never allowed to have my phone.

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Loraine MacGinness
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Why do I feel guilty for the way I am ? I congratulate you in being able to find the help you need, although there are reasons for their rules perhaps a more chherier atmosphere would be less depressing ??

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Doreene Esau
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you fo sharing. I've had a family member in one, and it's kind of a strange experience.

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Marie-Louise Chenois
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was to psy clinic for 3 months some years ago. Had a depression and attempted suicide, failed and realized i needed to be protected from myself. It was a private clinic so actually more chill than this (more activities ofc) like, i was allowed my computer in for exemple wich was forbidden to him because fo the cables..

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Ryo Bakura
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's brave of you to share your story with us, and to go through with being placed in a psychiatric hospital when a lot of people would fight, or refuse and demand an alternative. I am sorry that you have to live with your BPD, and also sorry you had to suffer through Jeremy Kyle.

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Darkroom Photography
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's just one more emergency room nurse and that was more than my fair share of psych patients. Unfortunately these restrictions are necessary because utilize them as a means of self-harm or to hurt others in the past. I commend you on being brave enough to share your story. I do find it curious that they allowed you to keep your cell phone (I am of course assuming that you took these images with your cell phone). Standard protocol is for cell phones to be confiscated and returned on discharge. The reason for this is that cell phone screen under the glass that you use for cutting (among other reasons I'm sure).

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Charlotte Halligan
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you. I've been in and out of psychiatric wards since I was 13, and this post made me vividly reminisce about the time I had there. They're eerily similar.

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Jordan Bahnub
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

*gasp* You read the Darkest Minds trilogy too??!! But on a more serious note: thank you for sharing you experience with this to clear some of the stigma with mental hospitals. I hope everything works out for you - best of wishes!

caroline_castle avatar
Caroline Castle
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

thank you for sharing - you have envoked a swift 'feelback' to my time in hospital. your images bring such familiarity. i am thrilled to hear you are feeling better, your art is superbly descriptive!... words of encouragement i will never forget a Dream written down with a date becomes a Goal a Goal broken down into steps becomes a Plan a Plan backed by action becomes a Reality. best wishes

oliviag avatar
Olivia G
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's so great of you to share this. Mental illness should be treated no differently in the public eye than physical illnesses. Just because someone has a mental illness CERTAINLY does not mean that they are crazy or mean. That's just the way it's often portrayed in movies and and TV. Glad you could get thru it.

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TheKnightOwl
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I stayed in the unit for mother's with children under 1, it was primarily for post-natal depression/psychosis. Although part of the main psych ward, it was seperate as we could have our children room with us (only the child under 1). I generally found it a positive experience; but I was allowed my phone, and we had an outdoor courtyard we could go to pretty much anytime we liked. The nurses in general were fantastic, but occasionally there were a few bad apples. The only bad part was the waiting list (more urgent cases got front of the line, and there were only 6 places for residents in the entire ward), and having to explain to people why you disappeared for 6 weeks. Luckily, in my country, it's completely free. I wish everyone could have had the positive experience I had, but obviously it varies not only country to country, but hospital to hospital.

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Samantha Olsen-Salonis
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

In the US, you would never be allowed to keep your phone, camera, or other electronics. I have also never been allowed to have shoelaces or anything with a tie or string. Most places will only allow you a golf pencil because, in theory, they are too small to kill yourself or anyone else with. I always make at least one life-long friend when I go "inside." Some of the best people are "mentally ill" just like me.

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María Hermida
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I think you are a very brave person, for sharing these experiences with us, who are total strangers, and for facing a terrible situation like this and continue struggling to get better again and again. Mental illness is terrible, because many people don't understand how much the patient suffers, and also, because of the stigma attached to it. I do hope you find a way to get better and be happy. I wish you the best!

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Enola Brinkley-Crayton
Community Member
5 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yes, it looks terrible (how did you get your phone to take pictures?) having worked in a similar facility let me tell you there are two sides to every story. You cannot determine if the future actions of someone who is depressed or in a manic state. The TV is encased because it will be destroyed or thrown at someone. No strings or anything because it can be used to commit suicide (which I have seen a mistake made in not taking everything an attempt was made) Determining what is on a person's mind leaves a big hole of questions suicidal, manic, psychosis, delusions, mental disconnect, and the list goes on. If you add possible use of dirty street drugs the mind becomes even more disturbed. These facilities are not resorts they are usually government funded (private ones are different than this) Do they help? In my own personal experience and years of mental health work, my opinion is time, temporary medication, environmental change, talking and an active mind is a must.

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Altynai Suanbek
Community Member
5 years ago

This comment has been deleted.

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Kerolos Saleib
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for Sharing, mental health is a mystery. Do many ways of dealing with it and always ever changing. They try their best and you did your best to show the reality and yet simple joys. I have been there. Thank you. You're a true form of what resilisncy means.

alexandrareynolds avatar
Alex
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm so glad that you posted this. For the longest time I thought mental institutions/hospitals were terrifying. I thought the nurses/doctors would control everything you did and that it was more like a prison than a hospital. This makes me feel a lot more at peace I guess knowing that was all false.

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Christi Yeater
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Tho this is very accurate in many ways, there's no way you could have a phone for photographic documentation. Calling b******t on this being a patient. The first thing my child and I gave up on their inpatient stay was our phones.

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Donna Martin
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for sharing, I hear so many good things about the NHS, I'm sorry about the lack of funding for mental health (lack of funding everywhere I suppose) With people telling others that they have mental health issues, it will help to end the stigma. You're no different from someone with diabetes or high blood pressure, it needs to become as normal to talk about as those diseases. ttthndiseanormadithosediseases.

markfuller avatar
Mark Fuller
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for sharing. I used to manage similar services for a number of years. They are - no matter how hard we try - never lovely. A million miles away from the god-awful asylums of decades gone by. But still not homely. Depending upon the level of security, you can be a bit more adventurous with the environment and do more with the decor. But moving into that field taught me that where there is a will, there's a way. And if someone wants to hurt themselves, the lengths they will go to are quite astonishing and disturbingly imaginative. So you end up having to create a rather sterile environment, which lacks the warmth you want to convey. It's not the preferred option, but one imposed upon us after years of experience and knowing that our primary responsibility is to keep people safe.

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SlightlyBurntWaffle
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I went to a mental hospital when I was in 5th grade and I had a roommate who broke the cap of her shampoo bottle to cut herself with

mpeapell_1 avatar
Melanie Peapell
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My first thought was "Wow...you could have a phone/camera with you". I have been in multiple psych units in my county. I've been in the county hospital (very bad) and two private hospitals (pretty good). It was boredom that got me a lot. I had private room with a hospital bed that massaged me and moved to a comfortable position. I also had my own TV. One thing that I am now trying to do is have a little care package for people who go into a psych ward. T-Shirt and pants, a notebook. I'm trying to work out a way to do this, my church is eager to help too. Also I work at the University that I went into the psych ward, so the policy is they don't use my real name, for privacy reasons. It felt good that when I decided on my two grandmother's names.

raspberrycupcake69 avatar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That care package idea sounds fantastic. I hope you find a way of carrying that out. It's a brilliant way to give back. Also I've had a lot of feedback about people being shocked I was allowed a phone. I know England tends to be more relaxed than the US. The NHS trust my hospital was in have relaxed their rules due to something called restrictive practice. It means they have to assess each patient differently, rather than banning all.

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raspberrycupcake69 avatar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That's a bin from one of the bedrooms and I have absolutely no idea. Possibly a patient put it there for some unknown reason.

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PyroarRanger
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have felt the same way before. But with ligature, I do have a few questions, not to sound ignorant. If a patient doesn't know how to tie a knot to kill themselves, would it be necessary to remove shoelaces?

raspberrycupcake69 avatar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You'd be surprised at what you can do when you're desperate. Technically no, but I don't think a nurse/doctor would chance it. It's more whether they are actually at risk; is it something they've expressed or have a history of doing? Interesting question though. I wonder if the same would apply to a patient with a learning disability or mobility issue, that prevented them from being able to tie such a knot.

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Cassie
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This facility does not seem conducive to recovery. It is dull, drab, and boring - all things that simply feed depression.. Apathetic doctors staff certainly don't help. It would be better if there were options for improving the mind and improving the self. Crafting classes. art or story telling/writing groups, courses on sign language or braille transcribing (the sort of thing that not only improves your own self but empowers you to help others), etc should be a primary focus. How is anybody expected to get better sitting around staring at blank walls or a television nobody bothers to buy a new remote for?

raspberrycupcake69 avatar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

As far as I know longer wards will have more activities and therapies. Short term wards recieve a lot less funding. I understand why they prioritise it this way. I wish it could be different though, as I agree it would help more people.

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Thomasin Grace
Community Member
5 years ago

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Out of Darkness, forgive me if you have addressed this but how were you able to have a phone/camera? This simply does not make sense. I am an advocate of mental health in America and volunteer for psychiatric hospitals to do simple tasks such as mopping, cleaning, anything that will help. I think you are doing psychiatric patients a disservice with your half hearted post. This is an incredibly serious problem and is not being addressed with respect. The nurses that work at these facilities are NOT qualified and are simply glorified babysitters.

raspberrycupcake69 avatar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

No it's okay. I can only give my experience from a few public hospitals in the UK. The NHS often works differently. The hospital I stayed at was low security. Patients were allowed to keep their personal items, such as phones and toiletries. Only things we weren't allowed were laptops, long wires and sharps. They charged our phones in the office at night. I'm sorry that you feel this way, but I can only speak for my area of the UK.

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Justine P.
Community Member
5 years ago

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They dont hold you there to actually treat you. Only to pretend that keeping you locked up will cure you of your desire to kill yourself.

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Robin Sánchez
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for sharing. I hope the stigma is obliterated so that the world understands that mental health is as important as physical health. Be well.

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Josephine Anderson
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I am a nurse working in mental health hospitals. I know that no-one chooses to be with us, but I try hard to treat everyone with respect. I am sorry that you did not feel respected during your mental health crisis. Wards are awful, but as you point out, they are like that for a reason.

raspberrycupcake69 avatar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The sad thing is that the people like you who actually care, end up tired, overworked and stressed. But, you are doing a wonderful job and I have the utmost respect for you. Thank you for helping and giving it your all.

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Danielle Rux
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

when i was put on suicide watch since im a child they supplied everything and i couldnt have my phone hoodies shoes or hardback books because of past kids harming themselves with stuff like that and the no phone rule was for privacy all the chairs and tables were weighted down and the doors didnt lock the beds were naled to the ground and the curtains were velcrowed so you couldnt hang yourself we had to wear socks and clothes with no hoods or strings and they always checked our pockets im lucky i only stayed for a week because i missed going outside they didnt let us out because it was cold and rainy but we did go to a gym and the person there made us exersise to sunshine lolipops and rainbows bc its a happy song but i hate it so much i wanted to punch her while i was there they discovered i have insomnia and bipolar disorder it took them 2 monthes to actually find out i had deppression im typing this from school and im having a good day due to my depression meds i hope your stay was

dariab_1 avatar
Daria B
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I think this is a very important post. People are afraid of what they don't know. Fear creates stigma and even hatred. These images let you see, they let you know, let you understand. These images may help people who've been reluctant to asking for help to actually picture themselves within these pictures, and maybe get the encouragement they need to do the big step towards health.

annakat314 avatar
Kat
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Wow I'm so grateful for this post and you. I've been in one 3 times. All severe depression. Full of shame about it. I love that you put this out there. Thank you. And please hold on. I will if you will

djware avatar
Juliet Ware
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for sharing this. I hope you continue to get better. Take care brave lady xx

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Wanda Queen
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You were aware of how bad things were getting and you took steps to take care of yourself......that alone is commendable. And now you've made this for us to see and it's definitely made me realize how badly we need to change our perceptions -- it's a hospital, like any other, and being admitted to it should be as natural and shame free as being admitted for a broken leg. So, you made that change in my mind. You did that, you have good things to offer.....keep breathing. ;)

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Susan Westmoreland
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

In the US you don't keep your phone. If you need a number you stand at the nurse's station and write it down and give the phone back. You get small cups of shampoo(only baby shampoo so you can't drink it) and conditioner when you're taking a shower. There is no courtyard or outside time at all. There is MAYBE two s****y books so when someone brings your clothes hopefully they bring some. But then you have to be careful that residents don't steal them.

monika-soffronow avatar
Monika Soffronow
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

How are you even supposed to get better if you are not allowed outside???????????????????????????????

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Idont Know
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I suffer from BPD, though I've never gone in for overnight care. I know I should, but I won't. I definitely struggle. I can't eat around others or be around those that are eating, people chewing gum will cause me to not eat upwards of a week at a time. I HAVE to sleep with headphones in. I really can't function without at least having them on me, knowing I have an escape. This includes any and all shopping, eating out, even hearing my horses eat. I also have such a major fear of doctors I'll black out, sometimes it's attacking them, usually it's fainting or attacking myself. I can't get help because of how my disorder effects me.

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Monika Soffronow
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Please be more open with your debilitating struggles. It does not have to be like this. You really need to find a psychiatrist that you feel that you can trust. If you are not communicating well with one, then find another. Picture yourself enjoying life fully, it truly is worth it getting the help you need to get well. A person with diabetes takes insulin, a person with thyroid issues takes hormones. All too often, when there are biochemical issues within our brains, we demand of ourselves, or of others that they "just get up! You can walk if you want to!" when they have been hit by a bus on the road and have a broken leg. There is proper care to heal that broken leg in the mind/brain. Please seek help.

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Kesyra
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for sharing. I know how the inside of a mental institution looks like but it's good that others see it too. It's not a horror movie thing, the nurses are there to help you and keep you safe. Good luck in the future with your BPD, it's a b***h sometimes but it's very possible to learn to live with it, as are most if not all mental illnesses. To everyone: If you're unwell, whatever reason, seek help.

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Nikki D
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There is no cameraderie like that found on the psych ward. The instant Bond of "hey, we're all crazy here!" Is indescribable. I have never felt so welcomed and at home while simultaneously wanting to get out more than anything. Almost two decades later and sometimes I miss it in the absolute strangest way.

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Toni Tangents
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The friends I made there, we will be friends forever. During my manic highs on the ward, I felt like an ecstatic child on a school trip or something, surrounded by friends!!

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Gipsy Kings fan
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for having the courage to share. I have bipolar disorder, and used to work for a peer support organization that was ostensibly run by mental health clients, but we were really a subsidiary of a larger organization that controlled everything. Although our boss was a person with schizophrenia himself, he didn’t want “one of us” to be the office manager, so he hired a woman without a mental condition to do the job. She acted “nice” much of the time, but was very patronizing and enjoyed undermining people’s reputations. Your shoelaces story reminds me of something that happened at my job. We had a Christmas gift giveaway for support club members. I saw a group of staff members in the office removing the drawstrings from of dozens of pairs of sweatpants. I was new at the time, so I asked why; they said it was so the people couldn’t hang themselves. I said, “Why not give them sweatshirts instead?” The office manager said, “They like the sweatpants.”

raspberrycupcake69 avatar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Sounds like she wasn't great to have around. I find it interesting that your boss didn't at least chose someone who had suffered in the past.

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Flash Henry
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I wish we had more places like this in the US. My health insurance won't cover pretty much anything psychiatric. If I so much as look a mental health facility for too long, I'll get a bill for $20,000.

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Monika Soffronow
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

As I have said before, I have zero, nil, no understanding whatsoever why Americans are accepting the incredibly backward healthcare system you have. Universal healthcare is a no-brainer. It simply makes sense. Unless you own an insurance company...

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Rachelle
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for sharing your experience! I was "admitted" involuntarily a few years ago as a result of a suicide attempt in relation to my ongoing struggles with BPD. I was cleared for release within two days but stayed voluntarily for a month - it was one was the most helpful, times of my life. Where I'm from they separate us into 3 wards - one for people like me (low risk); the second is for moderate cases, usually recurring patients who may pose a minor threat to themselves others; and the third was for severe psychotic/schizophrenic individuals who were at high risk of self or otherly harm. We all had the option to go to group sessions & art therapy throughout the day, free gym hour, along with doctor & nurse sessions daily & access to tv & a recumbent bike & elliptical. All in all - helpful, but after care was a nightmare. Group therapy, life skills lessons, CBT, DBT (which I waited over 3 years to get into, but is the only recognized program for BPD sufferers) The battle continues

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Missus Magoo
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have an adult child how has been sectioned twice, she gets treated well and then she's let out. Eventually she stops taking her medication due to massive weight increases and becomes very very poorly again. She's a different person without her medication and someone I don't recognise or particularly like. Her mental health makes her turn on her closest family and she says the most terrible things you could imagine. When she's on her medication it's like I have my old girl back again. I love her dearly but now I am older I can no longer take the constant abuse and also at times physical attacks. The NHS staff are wonderful and so overwhelmingly against the odds. I'm glad you recognise when you need help and you seek it before it becomes too damaging for you and your loved ones. Best of luck x

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Wanda Queen
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thanks so much for sharing this. It should be as easy and stigma free as being admitted to a medical hospital for any physical illness.

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Miklós Nagy
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Am I the only one who find it weird that you are worrying about 4th dimensional beings watching you but you share your life throught the social media with millions of 3 dimensional beings?

raspberrycupcake69 avatar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Mental health can be weird like that. It's not a delusion I have all the time and I don't believe it most days. Only when I become more unwell. For the most part I'm annonymous on here so I am less worried. Good question though.

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Rhon
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you so much for sharing your experience! This is such a helpful article.

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Gracie Mae
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

thank you for this--you seem to be dealing with your situation well. i'm big on journals myself; a good source of reflection when you can read it at a later date & figure out what things you need to work on for your peace of mind. being trained in working with the mentally ill, it is amazing the things that most people wouldn't think twice about that can be used to injure yourself. once had a male bite a chunk out of his wrist & use a PLASTIC spoon to dig out the inside...

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TL Dragon
Community Member
5 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's not like this in the US. Not being contrary, just warning US folks your experience will be more like a jail inmate than this. If you actually attempt suicide and land yourself in the ward you can often expect a suicide watch. It can be anything from a tech 5 feet or less for a determined amount of time or 30 minute checks. If you act out or attempt to harm yourself 4 point restraining IS ON THE table...well bed. Rubber rooms are also a thing and if you think the ward sucks that room sucks 100 times more. The better your insurance the longer your stay generally speaking applies as well.

t_janine avatar
Toni Tangents
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is sad. Patients are never tied down in the Uk. At the hospital I stayed in they told me they have a padded room but never need to use it.

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Azure Adams
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm a therapist and used to work inpatient units in hospitals. This one is a very nice looking one and you have your own room, compared to several I've worked in in the past. Inpatient stays are more often than not short-term so many activities and comforts are simply not there because of both funding cuts and because people do not live in hospitals or stay in them long term (court-ordered and involuntary is a different story). I work outpatient program now. This was a good article for people to see what hospitals units for psych are now and the realities instead of the assumptions and stigmas. Glad you are doing better and were proactive in getting help for yourself.

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Safy
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was admitted in 2016 for just a few days, but it was such a traumatic experience that I still suffer from - nightmares, flashbacks, and even this post, I can't bring myself to read it. Just seeing the picture I knew exactly what this was and where you were, and I immediately felt sick. While I didn't read everything, I do want to say that you are very brave to be so open and willing to share your experience.

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Monika Soffronow
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Hi Safy! Please keep in mind that the very reason that you were admitted to a psychiatric ward in the first place is probably the very reason you felt so bad. I hope you are well now, and continue to be so.

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Jo Davies
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for sharing this :) Sharing experiences and having open non-judgemental conversations around mental health topics is essential for society to move forward and become more enlightened and compassionate. Thank you for being brave and sharing this experience. I have depression and anxiety :) xx

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Kimberly Buchanan
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Both times I was in a psych ward, we couldn't have our phones, had to take out shoelaces out or give them our shoes and they would give us these footie thingys. They supplied us with all personal stuff, no belts. If we wanted to shave, they would have to watch you shave. We wasn't allowed pens or pencils, we could only color. The staff was great except for one lady. The patients were great. And my psychologist is the best!! I have the right combination of medications now.

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Lizzie the Crayon
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm so grateful that you are on this Earth, and made this post. It raises awareness for people who are dealing with the same things you are, Out of the Darkness. I hope you feel better, and, stay away from those mediciences that cause suicidal thoughts/actions, lol. 👍 Loved this post feel better

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Linda Niemczyk
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I volunteered myself to a mental health facility. It was the worst decision I ever made. The facility itself was fine. But I felt I was overmedicated by the doctor. Couldn't even walk I was so doped up. I'd rather die than to do that ever again.

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Ryan Gorse
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You don't really know what it's like, it sucked for me, all they did was use you to their own advantage, and completey ruin your life

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sosunlight
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So sorry you experienced that, Ryan. Hope you're feeling better today <3

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Kris
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When are patients allowed to take photos of the facility? Is this in the US? My experiences were a bit different. I was tricked into my first hospitalization (having decent healthcare in the U.S. can mean being taken advantage of) and still have trauma and PTSD from it. Second was better, helped more but was still terrifying at first. Facilities were definitely not as nice. The nurses just want to help though. FYI - you can sign a document stating they can hold you for only ... 72 hours, I believe, and then you must be released when you are willingly admitted. When willingly admitted you can't sign yourself out whenever you want, though.

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Deb Peddycoart
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for this post. As many have written, experiences vary widely. In the best places, the psych techs, nurses and doctors are compassionate and intend only to do good. Sometimes, while in the grasp of fearful and angry feelings, I know this does not seem true. If a person can be cared for on an outpatient basis with a strong safety net, that, imho, should be the first choice. If the inpatient care feels cold and too rule bound, try another place if possible. The reason for being inpatient should be safety fro self harm, respite from outside stress, med evaluation if needed and collaboration with you and the support staff to develop a recovery plan.

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Fixin'Ta
Community Member
5 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Good on you for sharing your experience and helping people see that it's maybe not so terrifying to be hospitalized, or at least you don't have to assume it's definitely going to be. I've never had to do this, though I have been close a couple of times. I'm proud of you for standing up tall and helping bring more awareness to the topic of mental illness/health. Best wishes to you for ongoing recovery.

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Desiré Yen
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was also admitted to a Mental health clinic last year December. I have major depression with severe panic attacks. My medication wasn't working and I was suicidal. The doc put me on lithium, and my mood lifted immediately, finally found my happy pill! I pray for those who are struggling with depression to get help. You are loved and very special.

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Michaelle Patricia
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You did an amazing job of sharing the reality of mental health and the hospital experience you had. Thank you so much.

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LunarEssence
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was in a lovely hospital in southern california called Canyon Ridge. One of the best experiences in that situation

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Pierre Martin-Cocher
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you giving hope to those in need. You being struggling yet taking the time to help other went straight to my heart. I wish you a prompt recovery and the best in your life. You deserve it :-)

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Karen Cordes
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I want help but I’m so afraid of the hospital not giving me my anxiety meds that I’m worried I would choose Suicide..

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Monika Soffronow
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Please find a psychiatrist you feel that you can trust. There is nothing wrong with shopping around for one. There is plenty of help available, but you have to look for it yourself. I wish you all the best, and that includes the courage to pick up the phone for an appointment! Be well.

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xaspsx
Community Member
5 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I also have borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety and PTSD (the last one due to a result of abusive practices by nhs and police) and am actively suicidal and not eating for days at a time, they wont hospitalise me ('if we helped everyone that was suicidal we'd be full/if you kill yourself then that's your decision because you have capacity/what are you doing to help yourself though') I have been in a deep hole since July and it took 7 months and a suicide attempt to even be referred to the community mental health team, who put me on a 5 month waiting list for basic counselling, then told me I won't be able to have it if I'm suicidal (I mean, they wouldn't even have seen me if I wasn't, my referral got rejected 5 times before I attempted) this has been going on 12 years for me, I'm 31 now and used to have so much potential...if I get too upset or agitated in a&e I usually end up arrested and subject to police brutality and the court system which I can't cope with at all.

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xaspsx
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Resisting being brutally restrained is assault of a PC, by the way. The only thing I can think of is to try to crowdfund for the medical care that might save my life, but to be honest, I don't have the energy, or the faith in people anymore, and have been told after a private assessement that I'm too complex to be treated in the community anyway. For every story of the lucky person that gets into hospital, how many stories are there like mine? For every harried but caring mental health professional, how many are deliberatly callous and cruel? It can't just be me. My story isn't uplifting enough to become an article, sometimes it doesn't matter how much you try to get help, sometimes hope is just something to be crushed over and over and over again.

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G13
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You are getting out of your darkness, and that makes me very happy (:

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Kathy Flavin
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for being real- it happens to more people than imagined.

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Rubee Tubesteak
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you so, so much for sharing this! I hope you find wellness in your treatment, and I hope your story can help others. I truly think it will.

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Missyblue
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for sharing. I spent a couple nights with my son in a ward when he was on suicide watch at 14 years old. I was impressed with the care he received. Yes the TV was boxed up and he wasn't allowed shoes at all. But for his own protection. The staff was beyond great. They were caring, respectful and knowledgeable. I thank them for helping my son through a very dark and scary period in his life.

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Gemma Lees
Community Member
5 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This made me cry but in a good way. I've been sectioned three times and had other experiences of inpatient treatment. I have BPD, OCD and anxiety with psychotic symptoms and tics and I only function as a wife, mother and person because I take antipsychotics, antidepressants and mood stabilisers. I'm currently in a mental health crisis now and my heart goes out to anyone else who is.

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Katie Kurek
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When I stayed the facility did not have separate rooms, shared dormitories are not good for recovery glad you had you own room my experience was much different

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My O My
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for sharing! Sad to hear that there are few to none activities provided for the patients. I hope this is going to change. Nothing worse then being depressed and having nothing to do

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Mrs Spencer
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have CPTSD and depression and I’m worried about speaking out about my depression because I have children and I’m scared they may try and take them even though I’d never hurt them or myself. I just feel sad and lonely inside myself and it sucks. My husband doesn’t really understand and says “Oh you’ll be fine later” and I don’t want to burden my mates in case they think it’s just me being dramatic. I hold back telling my trauma councillor a lot in case she thinks I’ll do something silly (Which I never would as I got my Babies to live for!). It’s lonely feeling like you have nobody who will understand you x

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sosunlight
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It can be a lonely road, particularly when your family doesn't understand. Hope you're able to find support. Thinking of you <3

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Kelly Hall
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for sharing, your story helped me understand, even if it is just a little bit. I hope you are feeling better.

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Douglas Campbell
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That is like a luxury boutique hotel. The psych wards that I've been (involuntarily) admitted to were medieval in comparison. I'm properly medicated and in treatment now, so hopefully I won't have to go there again, but if I do, I want it to be the one in your post.

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Vincent Jay
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Interesting. I recently came out of rehab after two surgeries on my foot. I can relate to some of what this author has posted.

monsa8 avatar
Monica small
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for sharing this post. I'm not sure what the state of the facilities are here in the US. Mental health is a tremendously underfunded and under addressed problem here. I have had times where I thought I could benefit from some help but I'm afraid of being detained against my will or being medicated and restrained. Thank you again for the courage to share your experience.

edc_82 avatar
Lola
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When are we finally going to realize and accept that the brain is an organ that needs just as much care as your other organs? It’s sad to hear that in this day and age, there is still a stigma associated with mental disorders. More often than not, countless lives are lost because people are too embarrassed to ask for help. And don’t even get me started on the movies that portray mental hospitals in hope to get more ratings. Thank you for sharing.

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Blondhorsecrazy
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The setting is a lot like the unit my sister was a patient at. She voluntarily went to sort thru some postnatal depression. Dont ever feel embarrassed to ask for help. We all need help at times in our lives...its showing how strong you are to actively seek help..

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Magpie
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

People with mental illnesses are so brave and so kind. * Thank you for showing us this. Wishing you well. ___________* my psychologist told me that. And she is right. You are brave and kind.

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Bob Beltcher
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Hope you're feeling better and you stay well for a long time. Glad you know how to recognize your situation and know how to get help. Thanks for sharing this inside look.

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spirit wolf
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I wish you the speediest recovery and I leave you with the quote " Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times, if one remembers to turn on the light " - Albus Dumbledore

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Berna
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You are amazing. Thanks for sharing your story. You're in my thoughts. Berna

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Helen Wood
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

how did they take photos? you are not allowed personal items like phones and cameras

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Monika Soffronow
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Obviously, this differs from country to country, maybe even from ward to ward.

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Lotte Marshall
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for sharing such a destigmatising post. I would also add most places in England (sorry not sure about provision in other parts of the uk) inpatients can access free confidential advocacy support. This can be especially helpful in meetings with professionals such as the psychiatrists if you feel you aren't being listened to. If a patient is detained under the Mental Health Act they have a statutory right to an Independent Mental Health Advocate who as well as supporting with meetings etc can help with appealing against the section and the legal rights and implications . A summary of advocacy is to support people to have their wishes and feelings taken into account about decisions made about them. One of they key things is listening and the patient feeling that they are being heard. Although advocates can support challenges to the nhs the best approach is to aid communication so all parties feel they are understood. Xx

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Michaelle Patricia
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You did an amazing job of making this real and not scary. I don't have mental health issues, but have friends that do and a daughter who works in mental health so I appreciate you sharing your experience. Thank you!

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Sam Choudhry
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was recently admitted, now discharged to the same community team that admitted me-after being kept for 6 days without seeing a psychiatrist, doctor or any specialist. Lack of activities or group therapy was zero. They had a gym & games room but only let me out the day before being discharged for 10 minutes to walk round the building that’s it, the only fresh air I got in 6 days. The assessment, in my opinion, is unjustified & as a person who is involved in the MDT meeting I should have had a voice. My depression & suicide thoughts were much worse on discharge. It now doesn’t surprise me with why suicide statistics are much higher & people are failed when clearly help & resources are there.

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Zara Steele
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yo, I have a similar hallucination about seeing higher dimensional eyeballs in every surface Sometimes they are eyeballs, other times they are male/female deities locked in furious loving embrace

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Laura Mitchell
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Ive been in and out of psych wards the past few years here in the states. Everyone's shoe laces are taken. Absolutely no phones allowed. Some allow tou outside on a courtyard some no outside time at all. Some seem to really care. Some are terrible to the patients.

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Nadia
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

First and foremost I must thank you for sharing your experience. I suffer from severe BPD and after a failed suicide attempt my mother couldnt handle me anymore so she took me to a general hospital in kandy, I was admitted there for a couple of days. I was among severe psychotic patients and the ward shared a dirty squat toilet. Facilites were limited and I begged the doctor to send me home and promised I would behave "normally". Mental health is not much known here, people think im going through a phase and im just been sad, which is not the case. They dont have rehab centres for depression, just a few and its not affordable. Anyways I figured I had to fix my life so I did alot of meditation, yoga,played music,drew art, met people and started travelling. Im currently raising awareness as a BPD advocate and trying to help as much as I can. I wish you well.

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Jonahs Mrs
Community Member
5 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you. This post shows more than anything the actual real life impact the cuts to funding for mental health have. For example the almost complete lack of therapy activities available, leaving vulnerable people(at their very possibly lowest point)with nothing but hour after hour of empty time with nothing to distract them from the thoughts that brought them to the hospital in the first place. It is a national disgrace that the services for mental health illnesses are being cut back to the bone. I'm happy that you are getting well now and that you are more positive about your future. I hope that this is the way your life/management of your illness continues for many many years I suffer from a mental health illness and when I'm asked about it, I tell people the truth, and I refuse to be ashamed about it. So many people are in need of education about mental health illnesses and the fact that it can be fatal. Once again thank you and best wishes for your future x

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CrazyCatLady
Community Member
5 years ago

This comment has been deleted.

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The Frog
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was in section year before last and 3 times up until October I'm surprised you were allowed to take those photos as we had to sign a document saying all photography and videos were banned from being taken from someone phone, however they (the staff) didn't give me or tell me about it the first time I was sectioned so I also have a load of pics on my phone. My room was slightly more up market people class it to a 5 star hotel as it's a new build with en suite bathroom and you have your own key card, pretty much they same layout though and nothing to do in there apart for a once a week activity group, and all phones and tablets to be charged in the office... and God help the staff if your equipment wasn't charged properly Haha, so yeah I can relate. I'm now on antipsychotics and doing great not hallucinated for 2 months now! I wish you well also xx

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Jurgis Vaiginis
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Your point of view is awesome - I only realized the reason why your where kept there when you wrote that eyes drawing does actually relate to your mental state. I find it really nice that you share such a things even despite me having no relations with this type of institution (in my country you may be not even taken for hospitality for such a disease since the whole treatment is a bit different)

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Toni Tangents
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Great article. I have been sectioned twice in the UK myself, and in many ways, it's not as bad as people might fear. Having said that, it needs more money spent: I wasn't allowed out for 4 weeks at a time, and felt cooped up. The garden was tiny. The food wasn't nutritious. There was hardly anything to do. The staff were great though, and you form very strong bonds with fellow patients.

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Stina Kolling
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for sharing. Hope life gets better for you. Don't give up.

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Sian Edwards
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have a thing about eyes as well, especially if I'm unwell and experiencing sleep deprivation! Hope you are back on track now. BPD is such a pain in the bum sometimes! Just a suggestion (if you aren't already aware) get your thyroid and B12 levels checked regularly, because they can both cause similar symptoms to the depressive aspects of BPD, and exacerbate existing symptoms.

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Michèle Gyselinck
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have schizophrenia but have been in recovery for 12 years now. Oddly--or maybe not--I have never been committed to a psych ward during my psychotic episodes, but I was never dangerous. I only made one suicide attempt that basically consisted in walking to the edge of the nearest river with the intent of throwing myself in it, but when I saw how fast it flowed I hesitated. As I was a committed Christian at the time and still am, I felt God speaking to my heart and telling me not to go ahead with suicide, so I went back home instead and called my pastor. He was sympathetic and advised me to the my mom how I felt. I was 28 then. I'm 60 now. Hope you feel better.

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Ms Viv
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Uhh.. If This Were a real mental health facility there's no way you would have been able to have your phone with you. They wouldn't even let me have lipstick or mascara.

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Sian Edwards
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Most general acute psychiatric units in the UK let you keep your phone, though the chargers usually get stored in a locked room due to being a ligature risk. You're not really supposed to take pictures but as there are no other people in the pics, nobody's privacy has been invaded. Personal items are risk assessed on arrival. Personally, I've never had shoelaces taken off me.

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Stormwatcher
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I hope more people begin to get rid of the stigma and stop bullying and hating others for things.

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Sheila Weila
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm glad your employer is understanding enough to hold your job for you.

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Bored Phoenix
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Wow. That sounds horrible. I’m 12 and had a bad bout of depression last year. I was lucky to get a nice hospital with kind people. The nurse were, anyway. The kids in there were nuts. 3 anger issue, 2 suicides, one hallucination, and me. It was wierd. Had to make sure I didn’t provoke someone. My roommate wouldn’t sleep without a light on.

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Ame Kimandia
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Hi! Thank you for this post, I'm really interested with the second draw, the one that you make. I feel super identify with that, I have the same feeling and meet some one that have the same though it's crazy. My biggest fear is going to a psychiatric hospital, I'm Mexican by the way, and things are different here. But well... I'm doing well. Thanks again!

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Irene Walton
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't know where you people ar, but, I've taken my adult son to the Pysch twice, Once he stayed for 3 days, the second time we sat in emergency for 11 HOURS then sent home. He was suicidal, alcoholic, depressed with anxiety. There isn't much help out there. This was in Vancouver BC

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sosunlight
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for sharing so honestly. Hope you're feeling better this week. Your colouring in is awesome, by the way! Thinking of you.

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Sarah Miller
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

How were you allowed to take pictures? I was never allowed to have my phone.

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Loraine MacGinness
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Why do I feel guilty for the way I am ? I congratulate you in being able to find the help you need, although there are reasons for their rules perhaps a more chherier atmosphere would be less depressing ??

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Doreene Esau
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you fo sharing. I've had a family member in one, and it's kind of a strange experience.

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Marie-Louise Chenois
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was to psy clinic for 3 months some years ago. Had a depression and attempted suicide, failed and realized i needed to be protected from myself. It was a private clinic so actually more chill than this (more activities ofc) like, i was allowed my computer in for exemple wich was forbidden to him because fo the cables..

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Ryo Bakura
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's brave of you to share your story with us, and to go through with being placed in a psychiatric hospital when a lot of people would fight, or refuse and demand an alternative. I am sorry that you have to live with your BPD, and also sorry you had to suffer through Jeremy Kyle.

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Darkroom Photography
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's just one more emergency room nurse and that was more than my fair share of psych patients. Unfortunately these restrictions are necessary because utilize them as a means of self-harm or to hurt others in the past. I commend you on being brave enough to share your story. I do find it curious that they allowed you to keep your cell phone (I am of course assuming that you took these images with your cell phone). Standard protocol is for cell phones to be confiscated and returned on discharge. The reason for this is that cell phone screen under the glass that you use for cutting (among other reasons I'm sure).

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Charlotte Halligan
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you. I've been in and out of psychiatric wards since I was 13, and this post made me vividly reminisce about the time I had there. They're eerily similar.

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Jordan Bahnub
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

*gasp* You read the Darkest Minds trilogy too??!! But on a more serious note: thank you for sharing you experience with this to clear some of the stigma with mental hospitals. I hope everything works out for you - best of wishes!

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Caroline Castle
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

thank you for sharing - you have envoked a swift 'feelback' to my time in hospital. your images bring such familiarity. i am thrilled to hear you are feeling better, your art is superbly descriptive!... words of encouragement i will never forget a Dream written down with a date becomes a Goal a Goal broken down into steps becomes a Plan a Plan backed by action becomes a Reality. best wishes

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Olivia G
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's so great of you to share this. Mental illness should be treated no differently in the public eye than physical illnesses. Just because someone has a mental illness CERTAINLY does not mean that they are crazy or mean. That's just the way it's often portrayed in movies and and TV. Glad you could get thru it.

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TheKnightOwl
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I stayed in the unit for mother's with children under 1, it was primarily for post-natal depression/psychosis. Although part of the main psych ward, it was seperate as we could have our children room with us (only the child under 1). I generally found it a positive experience; but I was allowed my phone, and we had an outdoor courtyard we could go to pretty much anytime we liked. The nurses in general were fantastic, but occasionally there were a few bad apples. The only bad part was the waiting list (more urgent cases got front of the line, and there were only 6 places for residents in the entire ward), and having to explain to people why you disappeared for 6 weeks. Luckily, in my country, it's completely free. I wish everyone could have had the positive experience I had, but obviously it varies not only country to country, but hospital to hospital.

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Samantha Olsen-Salonis
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

In the US, you would never be allowed to keep your phone, camera, or other electronics. I have also never been allowed to have shoelaces or anything with a tie or string. Most places will only allow you a golf pencil because, in theory, they are too small to kill yourself or anyone else with. I always make at least one life-long friend when I go "inside." Some of the best people are "mentally ill" just like me.

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María Hermida
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I think you are a very brave person, for sharing these experiences with us, who are total strangers, and for facing a terrible situation like this and continue struggling to get better again and again. Mental illness is terrible, because many people don't understand how much the patient suffers, and also, because of the stigma attached to it. I do hope you find a way to get better and be happy. I wish you the best!

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Enola Brinkley-Crayton
Community Member
5 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yes, it looks terrible (how did you get your phone to take pictures?) having worked in a similar facility let me tell you there are two sides to every story. You cannot determine if the future actions of someone who is depressed or in a manic state. The TV is encased because it will be destroyed or thrown at someone. No strings or anything because it can be used to commit suicide (which I have seen a mistake made in not taking everything an attempt was made) Determining what is on a person's mind leaves a big hole of questions suicidal, manic, psychosis, delusions, mental disconnect, and the list goes on. If you add possible use of dirty street drugs the mind becomes even more disturbed. These facilities are not resorts they are usually government funded (private ones are different than this) Do they help? In my own personal experience and years of mental health work, my opinion is time, temporary medication, environmental change, talking and an active mind is a must.

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Altynai Suanbek
Community Member
5 years ago

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Kerolos Saleib
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for Sharing, mental health is a mystery. Do many ways of dealing with it and always ever changing. They try their best and you did your best to show the reality and yet simple joys. I have been there. Thank you. You're a true form of what resilisncy means.

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Alex
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm so glad that you posted this. For the longest time I thought mental institutions/hospitals were terrifying. I thought the nurses/doctors would control everything you did and that it was more like a prison than a hospital. This makes me feel a lot more at peace I guess knowing that was all false.

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Christi Yeater
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Tho this is very accurate in many ways, there's no way you could have a phone for photographic documentation. Calling b******t on this being a patient. The first thing my child and I gave up on their inpatient stay was our phones.

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Donna Martin
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for sharing, I hear so many good things about the NHS, I'm sorry about the lack of funding for mental health (lack of funding everywhere I suppose) With people telling others that they have mental health issues, it will help to end the stigma. You're no different from someone with diabetes or high blood pressure, it needs to become as normal to talk about as those diseases. ttthndiseanormadithosediseases.

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Mark Fuller
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for sharing. I used to manage similar services for a number of years. They are - no matter how hard we try - never lovely. A million miles away from the god-awful asylums of decades gone by. But still not homely. Depending upon the level of security, you can be a bit more adventurous with the environment and do more with the decor. But moving into that field taught me that where there is a will, there's a way. And if someone wants to hurt themselves, the lengths they will go to are quite astonishing and disturbingly imaginative. So you end up having to create a rather sterile environment, which lacks the warmth you want to convey. It's not the preferred option, but one imposed upon us after years of experience and knowing that our primary responsibility is to keep people safe.

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SlightlyBurntWaffle
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I went to a mental hospital when I was in 5th grade and I had a roommate who broke the cap of her shampoo bottle to cut herself with

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Melanie Peapell
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My first thought was "Wow...you could have a phone/camera with you". I have been in multiple psych units in my county. I've been in the county hospital (very bad) and two private hospitals (pretty good). It was boredom that got me a lot. I had private room with a hospital bed that massaged me and moved to a comfortable position. I also had my own TV. One thing that I am now trying to do is have a little care package for people who go into a psych ward. T-Shirt and pants, a notebook. I'm trying to work out a way to do this, my church is eager to help too. Also I work at the University that I went into the psych ward, so the policy is they don't use my real name, for privacy reasons. It felt good that when I decided on my two grandmother's names.

raspberrycupcake69 avatar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That care package idea sounds fantastic. I hope you find a way of carrying that out. It's a brilliant way to give back. Also I've had a lot of feedback about people being shocked I was allowed a phone. I know England tends to be more relaxed than the US. The NHS trust my hospital was in have relaxed their rules due to something called restrictive practice. It means they have to assess each patient differently, rather than banning all.

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raspberrycupcake69 avatar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That's a bin from one of the bedrooms and I have absolutely no idea. Possibly a patient put it there for some unknown reason.

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PyroarRanger
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have felt the same way before. But with ligature, I do have a few questions, not to sound ignorant. If a patient doesn't know how to tie a knot to kill themselves, would it be necessary to remove shoelaces?

raspberrycupcake69 avatar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You'd be surprised at what you can do when you're desperate. Technically no, but I don't think a nurse/doctor would chance it. It's more whether they are actually at risk; is it something they've expressed or have a history of doing? Interesting question though. I wonder if the same would apply to a patient with a learning disability or mobility issue, that prevented them from being able to tie such a knot.

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Cassie
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This facility does not seem conducive to recovery. It is dull, drab, and boring - all things that simply feed depression.. Apathetic doctors staff certainly don't help. It would be better if there were options for improving the mind and improving the self. Crafting classes. art or story telling/writing groups, courses on sign language or braille transcribing (the sort of thing that not only improves your own self but empowers you to help others), etc should be a primary focus. How is anybody expected to get better sitting around staring at blank walls or a television nobody bothers to buy a new remote for?

raspberrycupcake69 avatar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

As far as I know longer wards will have more activities and therapies. Short term wards recieve a lot less funding. I understand why they prioritise it this way. I wish it could be different though, as I agree it would help more people.

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Thomasin Grace
Community Member
5 years ago

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Out of Darkness, forgive me if you have addressed this but how were you able to have a phone/camera? This simply does not make sense. I am an advocate of mental health in America and volunteer for psychiatric hospitals to do simple tasks such as mopping, cleaning, anything that will help. I think you are doing psychiatric patients a disservice with your half hearted post. This is an incredibly serious problem and is not being addressed with respect. The nurses that work at these facilities are NOT qualified and are simply glorified babysitters.

raspberrycupcake69 avatar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

No it's okay. I can only give my experience from a few public hospitals in the UK. The NHS often works differently. The hospital I stayed at was low security. Patients were allowed to keep their personal items, such as phones and toiletries. Only things we weren't allowed were laptops, long wires and sharps. They charged our phones in the office at night. I'm sorry that you feel this way, but I can only speak for my area of the UK.

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Justine P.
Community Member
5 years ago

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They dont hold you there to actually treat you. Only to pretend that keeping you locked up will cure you of your desire to kill yourself.

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