Voluntary Admission to Private Mental Health Hospital

[Dragonmum]

Hi

My doctor is doing a referral for voluntary admission to a private mental health hospital. I'm wondering what to expect and concerned about the what will happen when I am released from hospital and return home. Do I have a say in when I am released from hospital? I know this is the right step, but I'm anxious and concerned about doing it.

[Keon]

Firstly congratulations Dragonmum for taking that step. It isn’t easy even when we know it’s the right decision. I have had quite a few voluntary admissions to a particular private mental health hospital. I found it a very positive, supportive, informative, therapy focused & challenging time.

The hospital ran focus groups, had sobriety meetings, exercise programs, mindfulness, relaxation, hydrotherapy & offered counselling. I stayed about 2 weeks, met with Psychiatrist twice a week, CMO more often. They change & introduce knew medications in a safe environment. They include family & other supports if you want them involved.

When you leave it is a bit scary as hospital is a safe place. But a good facility should develop a discharge safety plan with you, have follow up & offer out patient support programs.

Hope this has helped. Hope to hear how you go.

[geoff]

hello Dragonmum, can I ask if this is actually a private hospital, if you have private health insurance or your local hospital because there is a difference between the two.
I have been to both of these but in the private, they do as Keon has said, compared to the local hospital which aren't so attentive and the care isn't as effective.
Google this 'voluntary admission to a private mental health hospital can I leave when' and it depends on which State you live in.
Once again as Keon has said you feel safe while you're in hospital, because there are no outside influences that may cause you to worry about, such as the phone ringing, people knocking on your door or having to try and answer a question that someone always asks you, so when you do leave all these securities go and you're back to square one.
Before you leave ask them at the hospital what sort of care you can have or what you will be available, you need to feel comfortable about this. Geoff.

[Doolhof]

Hi Dragonmum,

Do you know when you will be admitted? If so do you have an opportunity to see your Dr before hand to ask these questions tot he Dr? Is it possible to phone the place you will be going to or Google them to see what you can discover that way?

You could ask your Dr what assistance you will be receiving when you are released, and when that might be.

Ask as many questions as you can to those who are helping you organise this.

I'd love to be placed in a mental health hospital like the one Keon mentioned! It sounds wonderfully supportive and helpful.

It may all seem very strange and daunting to you at first, ask questions, rest all you need and allow yourself to be taken care of by others. Wishing you all the best with this.

Cheers to you from Dools