I have been inpatient about a dozen times in as many years. My first time I stayed five weeks because I was very depressed and grieving the death of my BF. Being inpatient is like a cross of prison and zoo. I didn't like some of the nurses at all but others I did like and they were helpful.

It is a safe place to get your meds adjusted if you need that.

Bring a book or magazines because after dinner there is just socialization and that can get really boring. Also bring a phone card if you plan to make long distance calls on their payphone or lots of quarters if you will be calling local.

No pajamas or sweatpants or anything with strings are allowed. You will probably be in lockdown to restrict people leaving who may be dangerous or there by court order.