I work at a Mental Health Hospital. One thing you need to be aware of is that laws vary from state to state. One person mentioned that because she was voluntary she could come and go as she liked.

I am in Florida and our MH laws are not set up that way. You may be admitted voluntarily but if you decide you want to go home you do one of two things. If you haven't seen your doctor yet, discuss it with him/her and he/she may write your discharge or you will come to an understanding as to when your d/c would be better. The other option is you request a BA51 - that is a formal request that the doctor must respond to in <24 hours. Again, if they agree you are ready, they will discharge you. If they think you aren't but you insist on leaving - they might put you on an involuntary if they feel you are danger to self or others or you may be discharged AMA and your insurance may not pay.

Our emergency room has special area with psychiatric nurses and a psychiatrist that assess all admissions - voluntary or involuntary. Explain your situation to them and then ask all the questions you need before being admitted. (Write them down before your go so you don't forget important ones)

Good Luck! get the help you need