I thought my experience as a psych patient was the norm. But maybe not.
I’m ip approx 4 times per calendar year and I always go ip because of sui planning (or mania). If I waited until an attempt it would be too late. I’m what the staff affectionately refer to as a ‘frequent flier’.
I’ve never had to go via ER. I would’ve if I was needing a weekend admission but I’ve always gone ip Mon to Fri. Instead the community psych nurse and my pdoc sort it out with the admissions office. I am usually admitted straight into the ward up to 48hrs after I’m first actively suicidal.
Meds are written within hours of admission and I’ve never skipped a dose in hospital. That’s ridiculous having to wait days.
It really is a shame to read how others have had bad experiences. I do hope people don’t lose hope.