Doctors, nurses and other mental health professionals wouldn’t be in their professions if they didn’t care. Keeping a journal that tracks your moods can help you establish patterns that will help you understand what is going on. Afraid of swallowing and choking., Mental Health, 32 replies Afraid to leave my room., Mental Health, 26 replies can Fear of failure as modavation work?afraid to be happy, Mental Health, 13 replies Afraid to date because of codependency issues, Mental Health, 4 replies Anyone else lose their only adult child?, Mental Health, 14 replies It’s her birthday and she wants to call her mother. I go over to find out what’s wrong. Subscribe Crazy Talk: My Therapist Suggested I Commit Myself. I want to go to a mental hospital but I'm scared of covid. Seeking Mental Health Care: Taking the First, Scary Step, Learning To Trust Yourself Again After Betrayal, Many Seniors with Depression Faring Well During Pandemic. Even when I have shared with trusted friends, I avoid direct words such as “suicidal” and instead hint at my feelings. You may be experiencing a medical problem and need to be evaluated as soon as possible. She provides therapy to people who struggle with addictions, mental health, and trauma in community health settings and private practice. I want to go to a mental hospital but I'm scared of covid. There is a reason my brain is malfunctioning. Consult your primary care doctor or make an appointment with a psychiatrist, psychologist or other mental health professional. She may be reached at r.porter08@gmail.com. She helps in providing knowledge about nanny services & loves writing on nanny-related articles. the toughest part of being in a mental hospital is usually dealing with your problems. Many people review their counselors on the Internet, and it can help you find someone who can help you. Avoiding the words seemed to decrease my anxiety and helped me hide my issues. 3. Seeking help is not something to be embarrassed for. I have been in this type of treatment several times after going to the ER and being evaluated. "I'm scared to make an appointment because that's like admitting there's something wrong. A mental health professional will need to evaluate your friend or loved one to determine if they’re an immediate threat to themselves or others before agreeing to commit them to the hospital. Then a therapist will talk to you, and if it is appropriate, outline their ideas for treatment. Find someone you know who is aware of issues like this, or at least someone you know will be understanding. I was touched how all these wonderful people might not have been here if it wasn’t for the help we received at the psych ward. If you go to a therapist or psychiatrist and tell them you are seriously thinking of killing yourself, that does not necessarily mean you will be hospitalized – even if you want to be admitted. This will help you adjust to being in the building. Remember that participation in a support group is purely voluntary, and that you can leave at any point during the meeting that you want to. Are you afraid of how you will be seen? Learn more. “And we’re not going to lock you away. My time in the psych ward helped me see how much people care about me and the other patients. This year everytime I’ve gone the doctors they just put me on anti depressants which I know I don’t need. advice, diagnosis or treatment. Trudi Griffin is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin specializing in Addictions and Mental Health. I wish someone could take me and be there with me to check into a psychiatric hospital. Psych Central does not provide medical or psychological It also can be very freeing to talk to someone about something you may perceive as shameful or problematic. In that case, you can try to intervene early by taking a look at your self-care, your participation in therapy, and your use of medications. But, I still went and it was exactly what I needed. This is something that can give you the courage you need to move forward. However, I was still embarrassed to be there and felt weak for needing help. Take a book or your headphones so that you can distract yourself from the thought of actually being in a hospital. Try walking by a hospital. It might be that low point you’re afraid of—not the hospital itself. I’ve been through long periods of depression and long periods of what I now know to be mania, and these episodes have lengthened and intensified over the years. It’s an act of bravery. Go into the cafeteria of a hospital and have a cup of tea. People may be afraid that they are “crazy” or that others will look down on them for it. 3. If you think you may need more help, realize it’s normal to be filled with fear. The truth of the matter is that seeking professional help is a suitable course of action in many situations. All rights reserved. Hearing other patients’ stories and reasons to be in the ward made my heart hurt. My best friend in the hospital, Jamie, is already standing at the nurses’ counter waiting. While inpatient hospitalization can be scary, it’s also life-saving. If you do not want to be on medication, you can set that as a limit, and if there are some things which disturb you or upset you, you can set limits there too. Our blogger, Chris Curry, addresses this serious issue in an article titled, "The Stigma of … It’s OK to be struggling and to be open with someone about your hurt. It is a perilous see-saw. Don’t be afraid to get creative – play white noise in the background or use noise-canceling headphones. The other patients had various types of support systems. I now have a more balanced view of medication. I know if I go my family will see me differently and things will be final between us. When people go to the hospital, it’s usually because the feel like they’re at the end of their rope. Doctor put me on Latuda on top of my Cymbalta, only been taking for less than a week so don’t know if it’s gonna help. They may be suffering from depression, bipolar disorder, severe anxiety, but they can't bring themselves to ask for help. They use words such as “crazy,” “psycho,” or “loony bin.” Not only does this shame people who might be listening, it also creates a distance between themselves and something that could potentially help them. Mental health can be a frightening issue to deal with, but learning more about it can make you much healthier and happier. They may simply drive you there, or they may wait there with you. When you catch yourself calling yourself or someone else crazy, stop yourself. It was a relief to be transparent with others about sensitive topics. Even though I was scared to go initially, my experience in a psych ward kept me safe, got me the treatment I needed and taught me many lessons about mental illness and people. Usually, though, that’s not the problem. Since being discharged, I’ve been working on being more transparent. i was very anxious and almost didn’t go but i did and i’m so happy that i did :) i can’t wait to get back on my meds and start to feel like my normal self again! If your mind automatically shies away from thinking about the possibility, ask yourself why. ... now it’ll just be phone sessions. What to Know If You Are Afraid of Staying on the Psych Ward. “Sometimes, group therapy is really helpful with people who are afraid that they are different,” Livingston says. But I need to see a doctor. You may be experiencing a medical problem and need to be evaluated as soon as possible. 1. There is no pressure in calling an anonymous hotline, and you’ll find that it can make you much more inclined to talk about getting the help that you need. I'm scared to go to the gp and say how I'm feeling I want medication but will they make me have counselling or a thepist because I don't want that it did help me before and it won't now.please help do I sound crazy I have no one Most panic attacks pass within 30 minutes, but you can take a few steps to calm them on your own. I’m 39 years of age and have struggled with my mental health for the majority of those years. Mental illness sometimes lies to us and makes us blinded from the truth. There is a reason my brain is malfunctioning. I’m candid about my major depression, bipolar and anxiety, but for some reason I couldn’t be candid with my hospitalization. This is an act of pure courage. I just don't know what to do and asking YA for help doesn't seem like the best idea but I'm almost ready to go for the fatal cut Also would a cut hurt less the sharper the blade is? When people hear the words “psych ward,” many thoughts come to mind. She helps in giving fair knowledge about nanny jobs to the community. These are sometimes negative and stigmatized, creating fear for those considering going to the hospital for mental illness. Support groups often are mediated by people with some kind of mental health training. Sometimes, people we love don’t have the ability to call up a therapist and take charge of their own lives. The truth of the matter is that unless you are speaking of doing something illegal or you are going to harm yourself, a mental health professional cannot detain you in any way, nor can they force treatment on you. You are not alone. I’m afraid she will break her promise.” The nurses refuse to … They do not get help when they are upset because they lack the willpower or motivation, but when they are feeling happy, they don’t get help because they’re convinced that they will always be happy. Sit in the waiting room. Some people feel that they will be completely helpless when they are dealing with a counselor. It can be hard to find a mental health professional who is suited to you. Our blogger, Chris Curry, addresses this serious issue in an article titled, … Each time has been different, but each time I learned something valuable. If you are making your first steps toward seeking professional psychological help, you’ll find that it can be tough to even make it out the door. If that sounds familiar, look for mental health help. I’m still scared to talk about it so publicly, but I think it needs to be done. 2020 Mighty Proud Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 4. ... now it’ll just be phone sessions. Your friends want to be there for you, so remember to let them. | I have done so much alone I don’t want to go in there alone. People often are nervous about seeking psychological help because they are afraid of the unknown. If you know the area with which you are struggling, it can benefit you to go to a support group. If you feel as though you cannot talk to anyone who knows you, go online. As I got to know them better, I saw how each person had a unique personality and valuable life experiences. Having been to the psychiatric hospital twice, he knows what it’s really like — here’s what you need to know. Ask a friend to go with you on your first trip to a mental health center. Go into the cafeteria of a hospital and have a cup of tea. Hospitals are very strict these days about who they admit, and insurance companies are equally strict about … While the stigma with mental illness seems to be improving a little bit, the stigma regarding psychiatric … We were going to be okay. If your friends or family members regularly see a therapist, ask them for advice. Yes, you should go to the hospital, but I am not certain that it needs to be a psychiatric hospital. Some had a friend visit or had parents who called them every day. Still, reach out for the help you deserve. Answer: The fact that you feel scared about these intrusive thought means that you need to see a psychotherapist. I'm getting treatment for a mental illness, but it might take a while to feel right. Their stories were full of suffering and perseverance. Can you help me find one and follow through?" You might find yourself delaying the trip or repeatedly putting it off. Oops! These are sometimes negative and stigmatized, creating fear for those considering going to the hospital for mental illness. But if your day-to-day life is stressing you out, a short break can go a long way for your mental health. At the very least, it might clue you in to how you are behaving. "I'm not thinking clearly these days. Talk out your fears with a sympathetic friend. Mental health can be a frightening issue to deal with, but learning more about it can make you much healthier and happier. And if you are experiencing severe physical manifestations of a mental health condition, anything that is a threat to bodily function or well-being, that’s a good time to go, too,” he says. Live in such a way that people know they matter. Hey. As hard as this was, it was beautiful that the room was full of people who fought against their fears and reached out for help. Making that first step is hard, and sometimes, it is a good idea to make sure that you have a friend who can help you with it. For many people, staying in a psychiatric hospital can seem intimidating and frightening, especially for children and adolescents. Take a book or your headphones so that you can distract yourself from the thought of actually being in a hospital. Also, a journal is a great thing to give to a mental health professional, as it shows where you have been and what you have been going through. There are people who genuinely care about you. Getty Images photo via KatarzynaBialasiewicz. When people hear the words “psych ward,” many thoughts come to mind. In some cases, a support group is less intimidating because you can hang back before you participate, and the focus is not necessarily on you. “And we’re not going to lock you away. For example, if you are dealing with issues related to alternative lifestyles, sexuality or abuse, you want to make sure that you are dealing with a professional who is skilled in these matters. 10:15 a.m. Jamie is in tears. None of this is binding, and you are allowed to state your preferences. “They think, ‘If I’m going to tell somebody, they’re going to lock me away.’ ” (The 1975 film, adapted from the novel of the same name, follows the story of a criminal placed in a psychiatric unit despite not having mental illness.) I’m afraid to tell anyone I feel depressed. Some people have persistent, unwanted thoughts about bad things … © They may be suffering from depression, bipolar disorder, severe anxiety, but they can't bring themselves to ask for help. I’ve known for a long time it’s been more than depression, but I never felt able to tell anyone just how bad things were. I never asked for help, yet they cared for me. Sometimes, it can be a good way for you to overcome your fears; others may be able to point out things that you miss. When you go in for a mental health appointment, you will be asked to fill out a questionnaire about yourself and your reasons for seeking treatment. Life is valuable and people deeply matter. However, this caused me to deny my problems and my hurt, not getting the support I needed. Help is available. If you are having suicidal thoughts, please click here for a list of crisis support services., If you are seeking therapy online, please click here for a list of counselling services. People who understood what emergency mental health meant. Depression. While mental health screening and treatment can dramatically improve someone’s quality of life, there is often still a very strong resistance to the idea. They may have a good idea, and in some ways, they simply forget that they ever have bad ones. I’m learning not to lie about my mental illness, which only increases the shame and the stigma surrounding mental health. Privacy I was so scared to call my friend to help drive me to the hospital. If you live in a major city, support groups often are quite numerous, but if you live in a smaller city or a rural area, they may take some effort to attend. Here are some of the lessons I learned. Yes, you should go to the hospital, but I am not certain that it needs to be a psychiatric hospital. I had friends who offered their help but I didn’t want to be a burden to them. Terms, Normally, I’ve worked extremely hard to hide my mental health, Mental illness sometimes lies to us and makes us blinded from the truth. I realized this was absolutely not true when I received calls and cards from friends. A mental health professional will need to evaluate your friend or loved one to determine if they’re an immediate threat to themselves or others before agreeing to commit them to the hospital. I want to feel wanted on the outside if I ever go to a psychiatric hospital. They may have an irrational fear that they will be locked up. Both are hard, but I believe each person has bravery deep inside. They may think that someone will make a snap judgment about their case, and they may be afraid that they will not be able to negotiate their needs. The safety and resources they offered were so important. Try walking by a hospital. I’m basically homeless and without this insurance money I will have to start over from scratch at age 55. But I know that overall it does help me live a more balanced life. While the stigma with mental illness seems to be improving a little bit, the stigma regarding psychiatric … Sometimes, people have very short memories when it comes to their mental health. Please, treat everyone with respect and love. Copyright © 1995-2020 Psych Central. Some people are afraid to ask for mental health help. Remind people they were created with worth. Take a friend with you if you are wary. I’m afraid to do it alone. Mental health professionals should always encourage good boundaries. Of course it was a relief to go home, but it was also difficult re-adjusting to home life after 5 weeks in hospital. There are a number of anonymous help lines where trained counselors can help distressed people or suggest ways to handle mental health concerns. I ended up getting my eye ball surgically removed due to major infection which made me go blind. I’m still working on setting the right boundaries and finding a balance; I don’t have to tell every stranger my deepest secrets. Despite increasing acceptance and public awareness, there is still a stigma associated with seeking help from mental health professionals. Some people are afraid to ask for mental health help. Mental Health Conditions That Requires Psychiatric Hospitalization. She received her MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Marquette University in 2011. Even though I was scared to go initially, my experience in a psych ward kept me safe, got me the treatment I needed and taught me many lessons … Don’t be scared of getting the help you need. Once you figure out why you are averse to the idea, you can move forward. Mental Health America (MHA) - founded in 1909 - is the nation’s leading community-based nonprofit dedicated to addressing the needs of those living with mental illness and to promoting the overall mental health of all Americans. Many people who have mental health disorders consider their signs and symptoms a normal part of life or avoid treatment out of shame or fear. If you're concerned about your mental health, don't hesitate to seek advice. I was living it and realized—I’m bipolar. i was very anxious and almost didn’t go but i did and i’m so happy that i did :) i can’t wait to get back on my meds and start to feel like my normal self again! In the psych ward, many patients had similar struggles. I’m not completely convinced that medication is “always” the answer to mental health issues. Sit in the waiting room. “Self-harm, suicidal or homicidal thoughts are very clear-cut cases where you should go to the emergency room. Many people afraid of seeking help for mental illness speak derogatorily about those who do. your parents will probably be able to come and see you too. I’m 39 years of age and have struggled with my mental health for the majority of those years. Depression made me feel alone and worthless. Can you go to ER for depression? Several friends and coworkers asked me where I had been. But if you’re not sure, you should go to the hospital. Normally, I’ve worked extremely hard to hide my mental health struggles. This can be quite comforting if you are worried or if you have anxiety problems. Even if you feel like no one in your life cares for you, many others do. You’re experiencing intrusive thoughts. This will help you adjust to being in the building. If you are in distress, please call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number. If you are resisting seeking mental health help, there are a few things that can help you move forward. The National Institute of Mental Health or the Anxiety and Depression Association of America are great resources for this stuff. I had only heard the term “bipolar disorder” for the first time the previous year, but I knew it was manifesting in me after speaking to my psychiatrist at the hospital … I resent it and I’m being real with you about that. Roxanne Porter is a freelancer & a regular contributor for www.nannyjobs.org. Today. I’ve been through long periods of depression and long periods of what I now know to be mania, and these episodes have lengthened and intensified over the years. I was shaking and overflowing with anxiety the whole day. While you’re at the hospital, meals are prepared for you, your laundry is done for you, and your meds are given to you by nurses at scheduled times. It appears you entered an invalid email. I would recommend a licensed clinical psychologist or licensed clinical social worker and who specializes in the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Seeking Mental Health Care: Taking the First, Scary Step Related Articles There are days when I don’t want to take my medicine. Once your call is answered, a caring and trained person will listen to you, learn about your situation, ask questions and will then generally tell you about mental health services in your area.Services in your area can range from a mobile response team to a suicide prevention center staffed with counselors where you can be accommodated overnight. People who don’t know you care deeply about you because you’re a beautiful human being. So this is all kind of new to me but it’s my last option because I don’t know where to turn to I haven’t spoke to anyone about this. It's important to know that most psychiatric conditions are successfully treated outside of a psychiatric hospital most of the time. Some people can point to very specific things that teach them that they should not engage in seeking mental health help, but other people have only a strong and unconsidered resistance to the idea. This may be making the first call to start therapy or to stay as an inpatient in the hospital. “She said she would come see me at 5. Take a friend with you if you are wary. I’m candid about my major depression, bipolar and anxiety, but for some reason I couldn’t be candid with my hospitalization. “They think, ‘If I’m going to tell somebody, they’re going to lock me away.’ ” (The 1975 film, adapted from the novel of the same name, follows the story of a criminal placed in a psychiatric unit despite not having mental illness.) A while ago I was discharged from a psychiatric hospital.I was hospitalized for mania and psychosis. I’m still scared to talk about it so publicly, but I think it needs to be done. Are you concerned about the idea of being put on drugs that will affect you adversely? 2. I’ve known for a long time it’s been more than depression, but I never felt able to tell anyone just how bad things were. “I’m afraid this could become another tragedy similar to what happened at Life Care Center of Kirkland,” said Justin Lee, a spokesman for the hospital employee union. They kept on saying how brave I was to seek help. I had friends and family who called me, sent me extra clothes and cards and came to visiting hours. Update : You may be considering suicide and yet not want to tell a therapist, because you fear landing in a mental hospital. Though suicide hotlines are the best known, there are others which will help you understand mental health services and put you in touch with the organizations that you need. Hospital stays for mental health are usually pretty short (from a few days to a week or two).