The Process of Being Admitted to a Psychiatric Ward or Hospital: Understanding Admission and Discharge

Contemplating a stay in a psychiatric ward or hospital is a complex and often overwhelming experience. Understanding the process of admission and subsequent discharge is crucial for those dealing with mental health issues and their families. This guide aims to provide clarity on the steps involved, the conditions under which a person might be admitted, and the pathways to discharge.

Admission to a Psychiatric Unit

Admission to a psychiatric unit usually occurs for one of three primary reasons: safety concerns for the individual, safety concerns for others, or an acute inability to care for oneself. This determination is made by an admitting officer, typically a psychiatrist, who believes that the patient's continued treatment in an inpatient setting is necessary for optimal care and safety.

A key aspect of admission is voluntary vs. involuntary. Voluntary admissions are based on the patient's willingness and agreement to enter the facility. Conversely, involuntary admissions are authorized under mental health laws and often require legal proceedings.

The Acute Psych Facility's Role

The primary goal of an acute psychiatric facility is stabilization and, ultimately, discharge. The process is similar to the admission process but reversed in direction. A psychiatrist must now feel that the patient is stable enough to be discharged, and the patient must agree to leave. However, it's important to note that leave should only be approved after thorough assessment by medical staff ensuring the safety of the patient and those around them.

Leaving the Psychiatric Unit

The departure from a psychiatric unit is often contingent on the assessment of the treating psychiatrist. Once a patient is deemed safe to leave, the patient or their guardian must agree to the discharge. There are several scenarios that can lead to discharge:

In cases where a patient is most likely safe but the hospital feels they could still benefit from continued care, a plan for discharge may be outlined, including follow-up appointments and support systems.

Real-life Encounter with Admission

A firsthand example of the process involves a situation where someone voluntarily sought admission. Despite initially attempting self-admission, the patient was directed to the accident and emergency department due to their severe mental health crisis. Here, two doctors assessed the individual and decided on treatment based on various factors, including whether the patient could legally be treated voluntarily or involuntarily.

On one occasion, the patient was so psychotic that they were sectioned (forced to remain in the hospital against their will). This underscores the critical nature of the assessment and the legal procedures involved.

Initial Steps to Access Specialized Care

For individuals struggling with mental health conditions, the journey to receiving appropriate care often begins with a general practitioner (GP) referral to specialist mental health services. This might involve a visit to a psychiatrist for an evaluation. Once diagnosed, the focus shifts to community management, with hospitalization considered a last resort, especially when a bed is scarce.

Conclusion

Understanding the mental health treatment process is vital for anyone considering psychiatric hospitalization or for their loved ones. While the journey through the psychiatric unit can be challenging, the ultimate goal is stabilization and successful discharge. It's important to remember that the process is designed to ensure the best care and safety for all involved.