Know your diagnosis, and understand the associated symptoms you may be experiencing. Know the treatment goal and expected behavioral outcomes. Know what kind of treatment will be used to help you reach your treatment goals: individual psychotherapy, group counseling, family therapy, and/or medication. Ask your treating team about discharge planning. [3] X Trustworthy Source Purdue Online Writing Lab Trusted resource for writing and citation guidelines Go to source [4] X Research source
Eagerly participating in therapy may also be taken as a sign of your commitment to mental health and willingness to comply with treatment plans, which may contribute to an early discharge.
If you disagree with the type of medication you are required to take, ask to talk to the doctor because you have concerns. A willingness to relationally discuss treatment options will be viewed more favorable than outright refusal.
Some hospitals may have outdoor space you can take advantage of to work out. If there isn’t any outdoor space or a designated fitness room, ask a staff member to show you the best place to do some exercise.
Reading self help books may be a good idea, given the circumstances, and may improve mood.
If the hospital does not offer classes or structured activities, you can request art supplies and books directing you how to create with different mediums.
If another patient is trying to elicit a reaction from you, and you are not able to ignore him or her, tell a staff member and ask permission to go to another area of the ward.
While making friends is generally good, this is not the place to find a romantic partner. Most hospitals have rules barring the sharing of personal information (eg. phone numbers, social media accounts, etc. ) don’t break these rules if they are in place, as this could not only be dangerous but could get you or others into trouble if found sharing personal information. Keep in mind that your new friends are also in the ward for their own reasons. Make sure to allow them some downtime away from you if you feel they need it.
Decide whether you will loan out your personal items or not. If you would rather not, decline politely if someone asks to borrow anything. Don’t let others guilt or bully you into loaning out items against your better judgement. Do not tolerate abuse or inappropriate behavior from others. If someone is behaving in a way that makes you uncomfortable ask him or her to please stop. If that doesn’t work, leave the area and tell a staff member.
