Mental health care is uneven throughout the world and even within the same systems. My own psychiatrist has told me that inpatient care within the system of which he himself is a part "would not be therapeutic" for me.

In the event of a crisis, of which I've had a couple, my plan is to double-up on my antianxiety meds rather than call emergency - I have coordinated this with my pdoc. It is highly unlikely I would OD. My MH system is generous in providing medications.

That's my plan. Situation permitting, each one has to assess what their best course of action is in their own personal and health care environments. ToeJam, I can appreciate your reluctance to reach out for help in a place where you might end up in gaol.