Wow, this one is making me think. My first hospitalization was in 1989 for attempted Sui. After that I was in and out of Psych ward for various conditions until diagnosed Bi Polar and MPD in 92 or93. Then I was in and out for years dealing with those two until early 2000's. So total around (and I am giving my best guess) 12 to 15 times.

I don't really know. I got really good at playing the system. I would go in, stay just long enough to get stable and get out. My last few stays were so bad I swore after the last one I was never going back. I haven't. It's been at least 6 years. So even my year count is a little off. My docs know I won't go back and work with me to keep me out. The agreement we have is I call the minute I notice something is off and we start playing with the meds to straighten things out or I have to go in.

I consider it quite an accomplishment that it has been nearly 6 years since I have been in the hosp. That doesn't mean it won't happen again.

Good Question. Thanks.