I can understand your fear, Ackman 12.

I've been hospitalized once as a teenager (for a few months), which then changed to a lower-keyed inpatient residency for another 6 months.

As an adult, I've been hospitalized a few times. These hospitalizations ranged from 2 weeks to 2 months.

I haven't regretted my decisions made to turn myself in. Sometimes, it took a little while to come up with the right medication combo. We also had to boost my self-esteem, and teach me self-affirmations.

Every once in awhile, my symptoms are too strong to simply maintain one-hour per week T visits. Those are miserable times for me. Suicidal ideation occurs more often, more strongly, etc. Those are times when I need more help to get me through. I can't be a very good mom when I'm so depressed and hopeless...and I don't want to make my children's lives any tougher than I have already. That's when a hospital visit is absolutely necessary for me.

Newer laws have made hospitals a lot more comfortable and supportive than they used to be. Throughout the weekdays, psych doctors are seen daily on their rounds. You're encouraged to give feedback. There are usually lots of support group meetings on weekdays/weeknights too. Other residents of the unit/s are very supportive and kind. They're normal people, just like us. They're just having a real tough time continuing with their lives right now. Weekends are more relaxed, making time for more visits and crafts. I really can't complain about my hospitalizations in the past 5 years.

I'd recommend giving your T's idea very serious consideration. It's a lot better to go into the hospital on your own will, rather than being sent by a court of law!