Is It Possible to Voluntarily Be Admitted into a Psychiatric Hospital/ward?

Yes, it is indeed possible to voluntarily admit yourself into a psychiatric hospital or ward. This process typically begins by visiting an Emergency Room (ER).

Voluntary Admittance Process

A patient begins this journey by signaling to the ER that they need a psychiatric evaluation. This request can be accompanied by a detailed explanation of the current situation or symptoms, though it may not always be necessary. Once you have expressed your need for a psychiatric evaluation, the ER staff will coordinate with a hospital medical doctor and a psychiatrist to conduct an interview. If the medical professionals determine that the patient is in a serious enough condition to warrant hospitalization, they will search for an available bed in a nearby inpatient psychiatric facility.

If you are in immediate danger, you may be held in the ER for observation for up to 72 hours or until a bed becomes available. However, for those in less immediate danger, the ER may explore outpatient services as an alternative solution.

Self-Admission Experiences

For those who have self-admitted to psychiatric hospitals, the process is often initiated through a phone call or email to the private hospital, accompanied by a referral from a general practitioner (GP). Rooms are typically reserved once they become available, and the patient is then guided to the facility. Depending on the severity of the crisis, hospital stays can range from 8 days to 28 days or more. This process highlights the importance of seeking help promptly when one's mental health is in crisis.

Reasons for Voluntary Admission

Voluntary admission is often a step taken when an individual experiences intense suicidal urges that they are unable to manage on their own. It is a proactive measure to seek professional help and ensure their well-being.

Risks and Considerations

While voluntarily admitting oneself to a psychiatric hospital is a positive step towards recovery, there are potential downsides. You may be required to stay until a doctor deems you stable enough to leave. Additionally, if you decide to leave the hospital against the advice of the medical staff, it is crucial to discuss your intentions with the doctor, who will explain the risks of relapse associated with premature discharge.

Statuses of Admission

The criteria for admission can vary significantly. In many states, the statuses can be broadly categorized into:

Involuntary: Self-explanatory, typically related to severe mental health crises where the individual may be a danger to themselves or others.Voluntary with a written admission: This status may seem voluntary but can be changed to involuntary without the patient's consent, making it somewhat deceptive. Doctors will assess the situation and determine if the patient poses a risk.Voluntary without written admission: This scenario is rarer, as it represents true voluntary admission where the patient can leave at any time, often due to trivial reasons such as dissatisfaction with the quality of food in the hospital cafeteria.

Recent Changes in Mental Health Facilities

It is important to note that mental asylums no longer exist in the United States. Instead, modern treatment centers operate in hospitals and focus on providing the necessary care and support for mental health crises. If you find yourself in a situation where self-admission to a psychiatric hospital is required, visiting your local emergency room and requesting a psychological evaluation is the recommended course of action.

Voluntary admission to a psychiatric ward is a beacon of hope for those struggling with mental health issues. It is a proactive step towards seeking professional help, ensuring one's well-being, and taking control of one's mental health journey.