I was hospitalized 4 years ago and I had the same experience as the others. The first 2 days they took away my clothes and stuff, and I wasn't allowed to leave the ward because of sui ideation. The nurses checked on me every hour which was a pain when I was trying to sleep, but ok, not too intrusive. After the 2nd day I got my stuff back and could leave the ward to go to buy coffee or whatever the hospital has, gift shop etc. There is a smoking area attached to the ward. It was very structured with meals, recreation, OT, TV times, etc. I could have visitors. I didn't socialize too much when I was there because I was too depressed, and the woman I was sharing my room with was having ECT. I know that some people have really bonded and made close friendships while inpatients. I'm not anti-social, just an introvert, and when I feel bad I want to be alone and not talk. I was an inpatient for 8 days. After I was discharged I went into a Day Program which was outpatient group therapy for 4 weeks, and that was very good.