I'm sorry but in the United States, which maybe the OP should clarify which country he/she is looking to enter, admission may be voluntary but you certainly cannot leave when you "feel better". There is a period that you must stay, usually 48-72 hours until you can be discharged. Most are held for 3 days on average.

Since I worked as a psychiatric nurse in a behaviorial unit in my state and was then a patient in 3 different hospitals unfortunately on 7 different occasions, I am not sure why you would not think I would know the facts about that or the laws.

None of them are like resorts or being on vacation I assure you OP. Do not be misled to think that. They certainly can feel like prisons, but not all of them. You must follow strict rules of behavior. Never once did I see any patient allowed more privileges than the other, unless one was on lockdown and not allowed out of their room.

I would not try to 'taint' them, several of my experiences were horrendous, however if inpatient care is what is necessary then that is what will happen. It is completely up to the hospital and the physicians what will take place. It is not up to the patient whatsoever. There are some less strict and more amicable psychiatric units in some hospitals. Geography does play a huge role.

OP I wish you the best and hope you have a good doctor or therapist to guide you!