I've read some posts from various forum members, in various threads, about their positive experiences with hospitalization. I myself have been hospitalized, in two different hospitals -- two different states, even -- and both times sucked royally (please forgive the rather crude phrasing). In the first place, I lay on a cot in an empty bedroom for three days until my psychiatric hold expired and they finally let me go. The second time was moderately better, but not much. I don't consider myself as having gained any benefit whatsoever from either hospitalization.

I am now in yet another state. My therapist told me that yes, the purpose of hospitalization is basically just to keep the patient from committing suicide, so obviously hospitalization in my current location still is not an option.

I get so desperate sometimes, and when I start feeling like that, I get even more desperate because I know there is no help out there. Yet obviously hospitalization has helped some of the forum members here.

I addressed this in a previous thread titled "No Help Left," but it quickly fizzled. (Many thanks to the the two folks who did respond.)

I would really, really love to find out more about how hospitalization can actually help. If anyone would care to share their experiences, even just a few details, that would be so great. I understand privacy is paramount, so of course I don't expect anyone to share personal, identifying information.

Many thanks.