Most people dealing with mental health challenges will not need hospitalization, but in some cases, inpatient care may be required. Understanding what to expect when going for psychiatric hospitalization and going through that process can help it go easier.

The Florida Agency for Health Care Administration says Duval County’s rate of hospitalization for mental disorders has been higher than the state’s rate for several years. In 2019, about 1,150 people per 100,000 in Duval were hospitalized for mental disorders, while the Florida rate was near 1,027. Over the last decade, Duval’s rate has risen in all but two years.

These hospitalizations include schizophrenia, mood disorders, anxiety, and other conditions.

When Psychiatric Hospitalization May Be Needed

A mental health-related hospitalization may be voluntary or involuntary. A person may decide it’s in their best interest or take this step at the urging of their family. Unplanned psychiatric hospitalizations largely are the result of involvement by law enforcement or paramedics.

There are select times it may be best for someone to be hospitalized for mental health concerns.

  • To closely monitor for the purpose of making an accurate diagnosis
  • To adjust and stabilize use of medications
  • During an acute episode
  • When a person’s mental health is so severely affected that they are not caring for their physical needs
  • When a person is at risk of hurting themselves and/or others

A mental health provider may also recommend hospitalization as part of a treatment plan.

The Concerns of Psychiatric Hospitalization

Many fear hospitalization for mental health support, out of concern that they will be indefinitely confined. But the goal of hospitalization is not to find the definite, lasting treatment plan- which could take a long time. Rather, the goal is stabilizing a person.

Another concern people often express is living in close quarters with people who may be acting in unconventional ways, as they deal with their own mental health challenges and treatment. This proximity is generally unavoidable, but it’s important to keep in mind that these patients need help and support as well. Come from a place of empathy. Facilities will also have procedures in place, where you can report any specific inappropriate incidents.

How to Prepare for Psychiatric Hospitalization

If you’re concerned that you will be hospitalized past your will, consider a legal order that outlines the care you consent to and who you trust to make decisions, in the event you can’t. Knowing a trusted person will be there to advocate for you can potentially remove some of the anxiety you may have.

If your hospitalization is voluntary and you have time to prepare, do some research into the facility itself. Knowing what to expect with your own psychiatric hospitalization can greatly alleviate any concerns or anxiety you may be feeling. Many facilities can provide information ahead of time on daily schedules, what kind of visitors are allowed, what is required for checking out, and any items you’re allowed to bring with you. Some facilities will even include this information on their website.

It’s also good to ask your mental health provider and the facility about rules to expect. For example, you may have your movement and communication restricted for a certain period of time, you may have a treatment plan that requires group therapy in addition to individual counseling, etc.

Post-Hospitalization Support

After psychiatric hospitalization, it’s important to have a level of continued care. Moving from the immersive hospital environment back into independent living can be a shock, so a support network of friends, family, and a mental health provider can be invaluable. If you do not have a regular therapist or counselor, Jax Therapy Network can help connect you with a local, licensed provider.

Use your support network to help you keep doctor’s appointments, follow your treatment plan, and take care of yourself. If you find yourself struggling with these benchmarks, be honest with your mental health care provider and consider whether more intensive treatment is still needed.

As with all medical and mental health treatment, expect that this will be a process. A voluntary commitment is not an easy decision to make. Hospitalization may be very difficult at times, but it may also be the best thing you can do to help yourself at this time.

Ready to find your therapist? Search the Jax Therapy Network and find help with mental health hospital admission  from professional therapists and mental health counseling support.