[SoulUnderGuillotine]

I tried posting this in the FAQ board but I figured you guys might have more experience here.

I've been considering checking myself into a hospital for a little while now. My only real source of information comes from a friend of mine who was Baker acted, and what she says about them isn't too hopeful.

So what are hospitals like? Am I put somewhere else if I voluntarily commit myself rather than getting acted? Are there different kinds of hospitals? Do they actually help?

[MotownJohnny]

I was only "day hospital" but yes, there are public and private - I would avoid public if possible, from what I hear, but it varies from hospital to hospital, you pretty much have to do your research on each facility - a good place to start is online review sites. Private generally have better care, but again it varies. Staffing levels, staff competence and staff attitudes make a big difference. The place I went was a private, very large and very respected facility, and overall it was pretty decent, staff was very nice and very professional. But it was still a terrifying experience.

[Roxygirl816]

I've been in 3 different ones. Twice involuntary and once my choice. each hospital does vary but they're all pretty much the same. When I went voluntary I was put in the same place as everyone else. The only real difference was my attitude towards it. Also, even when ur voluntary u don't decide when to leave they do. And if u sign the paper asking to leave and they don't think ur ready they will change ur status to involuntary. Hope this helps if u want any more info let me know.

[puzzclar]

For Idaho, there's what I thought of them. I have been in 3 different locations all in Idaho. For me I put myself there because I couldn't handle it anymore. I was there with a variety of different people, and different circumstances. I have been in two that were public and then one that was private, To me there wasn't much of a difference. It all depends on what help you need. Do expect it to take time. If what you are going in for is an eating disorder or an Addiction, then the timing is longer and it is a specialized hospital.
Hope this helps, and if you want to talk about it, I'd be happy to.

[David866]

I have been in 5 different hospitals, three general hospital psych wards, and two psychiatric institutions. As far as being a voluntary admission vs. being committed, I have never seen any difference in where you're placed. I can't say I ever had much to complain about as far as treatment by staff. As a matter of fact, there are times I feel kinda' homesick for the safety and security of being inpatient. It was one of the only places I ever felt I fit in.
I saw on your profile page that you have many of the same issues as me.
One thing I found...unless you express the fact that you are in imminent danger of self harm or worse, many places will refer you to out patient. Don't hold back. Two different times I went in for help, but was embarrassed to fully divulge the depth of my condition. Both times I was given a couple of pills and told to seek help outpatient.

The fact that you are considering going inpatient is a pretty good indicator that that is exactly what would be best for you at this point. Good luck.

[Espresso]

Originally Posted by Roxygirl816

Also, even when ur voluntary u don't decide when to leave they do. And if u sign the paper asking to leave and they don't think ur ready they will change ur status to involuntary.

That is very accurate.

My experience wasn't bad, but I've heard it varies from place to place.