I was diagnosed with schizophrenia at age 17. Before that and since then I have had more psych ward stays than I can count. Each stay is terrifying for its own reason.
The first few are obviously frightening because it is something new and at this point you probably still don't believe that anything is wrong with you. You go to the ER. They check you in and get a psych consult from an on call doctor making rounds to 4 or 5 other counties before getting to you. Once that's over they either send you home or find a room for you somewhere. The next part of the process was a little different for me in some ways the 1st time I was admitted because I was a minor at the time. Once they find a bed( this may take weeks) you get a room. They run you through their security. No jewelry, shoe laces, underwire bras, shorts with drawstrings, and no electronic devices. Once your in you get a nice set of paper scrubs to last you until whoever can bring you clothes and hygiene items.
While you're there they walk you around and show you everything. They explain all the rules. Yes, padded rooms exist and Thorazine is still a thing. I would know. You are taken to your room and shown where you can put you things. Sometimes you have your own room and other times you do not. They give you a copy of the daily schedule and your doctors' names. You do one on one therapy and see a psychiatrist. The wards also have social workers come in especially if you are a minor. There is usually at least 1 phone and multiple opportunities to use it throughout the day. Televisions, books,and games are commonly available as well.
Okay.....why am I telling you all this? Many people refuse to get help because they're afraid they will get carted of and locked away forever. That isn't how things work. Most of these places keep you no longer than a couple weeks, but more are out in a week or less. State mental institutions are different stories that I can write about later. I know all of this sounds terrifying, but understand these places are there to help you! I was to afraid to sleep the 1st time I was in a youth ward. I was experiencing hallucinations....bad ones. The doctor told me to write down anytime a voice told me to hurt someone or myself. I told him that I cannot write that fast. He helped me come up with ways to deal with it until the medication took affect. I went to lie back down. A couple hours later I was hearing things coming from my bathroom and seeing things. I thought someone was hiding in my shower. I quickly got up and walked out the door. I made my way to the nurses station. They asked me what was wrong and I told them that someone was in my room. The security guard immediately went to check it out while the nurse gave me water and some crackers. They legitimately wanted to help me. I've had other incidents as well in adult wards.
I write all of this to tell you that you don't need to be afraid to get help. I wish I had someone to walk me through the process when it first happened to me. It is a long process, but usually a helpful one. If you think you or someone you know needs help do not be afraid of being "locked away." Most places genuinely want to help you.
Take care of your selves and each other.
Love, A Schizophrenic
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