Coping in the emergency department

[Centaured]

Sometimes in mental health crisis's we end up in the emergency department. And that totally ok, being safe is important.
but how do we cope with our crisis while waiting?
What are some helpful strategies you have found useful during your stay in the department?




I often get stuck in the emergency room waiting room overnight due to the fact there is no mental health team 24/7 where I live. I'm really struggling being here tonight. My usual strategies of listening to music isn't really working so I'm wondering if there is anything else I should try. Please note my concentration and attention is limited due to being in crisis. I feel trapped and stuck.
I wish lifeline text was 24/7 coz I could really use someone to talk to. Are there any other online options as I cant really call someone due to the nature of a waiting room.

[Centaured]

I've been here over 5.5hrs still haven't seen a dr for attending to the self harm. I'm ready to be done with this shit.

[Centaured]

I ended getting admitted in the evening. I received a new diagnosis. I'm going to make a new a new thread about it. It's hit me pretty hard.

[Guest9337]

G'day Centaured. I like your profile pic. I'm reaching out to you because I too have been in multiple ED's, multiple psych wards and have fallen to the floor weeping. Sucks yep.

My second mental health diagnosis was "suicidal ideation". Somewhere along the line I noticed that each of the 10 ways I had created for doing it felt different. That I could literally make myself cry by thinking of one method or laugh by thinking of another, or feel righteous in another scenario. I suppose that's a form of emotional control hey?

My plan for attending an emergency depart includes taking two days of clothes, a couple bags of sweets, my medications, phone, some magazines or ipad. I try to make the stay somewhat less boring.

I hope my sharing helps.

[Centaured]

Im so tired.I've been in the waiting room all night after medical attention waiting for psych. I just want to go home. I've been in hospital every day this week for medical attention and I'm done. I just can't no more. I don't even want to try to get better- I don't see the point.

[Centaured]

David n Goliath
Thanks for sharing your story. How are you going these days, it's hard isn't it.

[Sophie_M]

Hey Centaured,

It sounds like it has been a really tough week and it's so brave of you to keep reaching out despite how challenging it is. It's understandable those thoughts of giving up are there. We just want to reiterate that you're a valued community member and your insight and kindness towards others is so appreciated. We've sent you an email to check in.

We really encourage you to stay at the hospital to have that chat with the psych and get the support you need. As you know, you can call also our Support Service any time on 1300 22 4636.

Remember that you're so strong and resilient. And like other really tough times, this one will eventually pass too.

[Guest9337]

I'm below average these days, having recently been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Centrelink effing me over until I set my local MP on them.

Right now I'm exploring music. HIFI and music are both big deals for me!

[Centaured]

Music is a big deal for me too, what kind of music do you like.
And I'm sorry to you are struggling and just been diagnosed with diabetes and having Centrelink issues. I hope things improve for you. Best of wishes.

[Centaured]

wouldn't talk to a friend the way I talk to myself
(I'm turning my life to hell)
See the voice in my head really needs some help
(I figure I might as well)
Step inside this is my confession
I let resentment turn into a deep depression
I spend the next five lines asking bad questions
How could I hit rock bottom never learning a lesson
Do I deserve this hurting
If my body goes limp would I float to the surface
Or can I live in a world with no purpose
How could I change when I'm still the same person
Wouldn't talk to a friend like I talk to myself

[Sophie_M]

Hi Centaured,

It looks like you've been doing some writing - that's fantastic. It can be really cathartic to write down what you've been feeling, and we're sure this will reach many who are reading.

You might be interested in one of our threads, "The poetry corner" where the community shares poems and creative writing.

We also just wanted to remind you that if you are feeling this way at the moment, please do remember your supports such as the Suicide Call Back Service who are available 24/7 on 1300 659 467 or https://www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au/

Thanks so much for sharing your talent for writing here. We'd love to hear anything else you come up with anytime.