[Photonate]

Hello, I'm trying to find out how I can get back into and start receiving regular treatment again. My issues have gotten pretty severe since being out of treatment for so long, so I really need something more, I guess 'intense', or consistent than just seeing a therapist for 1 or 2 hours a week, and hospitalization is the best thing I can think of.

But the last time I tried voluntarily admitting myself to a hospital I was just told that I couldn't be admitted unless I was "actively planning on or already harmed myself". So I'm really not sure what to do... Like I said, my issues have developed and become a lot more severe than what they used to be when I was in active treatment, but I don't know how to get back into more 'intense' or active treatment if I'm just told that I have to harm myself first...

[splitimage]

Your options are going to vary depending on where you are, but yes you usually need to be actively suicidal to be admitted to a hospital. Or at least that's the way it is here.

As an intermediate option between hospitalizations, and periodic therapy many hospitals offer day programs. These can be called, Day Hospital, Intensive Outpatient, or Partial Hospitalization.

With these programs you go to the hospital for most of the day anywhere from 3-5 days a week, and do different group therapies. Some programs also offer individual counselling, and some offer medication assessment and recommendations. But you go home at night.

I'd ask your therapist or gp for a recommendation. I've done various day hospital programs when I've needed more intense support but didn't need full blown hospitalization.

splitimage

[sophiebunny]

For in-patient admission you need to be a direct threat to yourself, someone else, or incapable of basic self-care (schizophrenics in a severe psychotic episode as an example). A day program is a good alternative. If you have a PCP or a psychiatrist it's best to use an MD. If you don't, call local hospitals with psych units and enquire about day program availability.

[bpcyclist]

Why don't you start by making an appointment with a competent local psychiatrist?