I have had to go both ways, and if you go on your own, you may be able to get back out after they get you stable. If they make you go, you have to follow everything they plan for you, and they will decide when you can get out. The main reasons for them to make you go is , is there a chance of you hurting your self, or others, and do you have a plan. If it was me, I would go on my own. I was made to go one time, and was in for over a month, and when I was released, I had to go to a day program, mon - fri from about 7am to 4 pm, and it was for 6 weeks. Please witch ever way you go, please get the help!!!!!!!