What is it like to be an inpatient?

I’ve been a client of St John of God Health Care mental health hospitals quite a few times in the past. It can be quite intimidating knowing you are going to come into hospital. I clearly remember the first time I was told I needed to be admitted. I was so upset, and I felt it was such a low point in my life. However, I would like to tell you that being an inpatient can be the start of some truly life changing stuff. 

Given that I know how confronting and difficult it can be to accept that you need to come into hospital, I would like to explain to you a little about what will happen to you on your first day. I hope that giving you some information will help you feel more comfortable.

Your first day

First of all, if possible, get someone to help you pack your bag. This is especially important if you’re unwell or not sober. Otherwise, you will end up like I did once, and find you pack 17 t-shirts, and no pants. Make sure you pack comfortable clothes and shoes, pyjamas, and plenty of underwear. You can wash your clothes at the hospital with coin operated washing machines if you need. You’ll be given a toiletries pack, but it’s always good to bring a big bottle of shampoo if you use it, and shower gel or soap.  The hospital does have a pharmacy where you can buy these things as well.

When you arrive at the hospital, you’ll do an admissions process with a staff member who is very experienced in helping people going through major life stuff, and will be gentle and helpful. Then a staff member from the ward you are on will come and take you there and get you settled in your room. You will have your bags searched, which can feel intrusive, but is a quick process (especially if you don’t bring anything you shouldn’t!) 

The necessary things you have to do

You might have to do a COVID Rapid Antigen Test, and if you are going to the addictions unit, maybe a breath analysis and a urine sample. Once again, these things can be a bit annoying, but they are pretty important. The staff don’t judge you on the results of your urine or breath test. They need to know where you’re at. It’s important to be honest and frank with them as much as possible. That helps them to help you in the most effective ways.

There might be some restrictions on whether you can leave the hospital. This can feel very limiting at times, but it’s so important to remember that it’s not a punishment - it’s for your safety. You’ll be able to have visitors and more leave as you progress through your stay.

Trust the process

Your admitting psychiatrist will come and see you while you are an inpatient, and there will be groups to do. I urge you so strongly to try and engage with the groups if you are able to. Group has been such a giant part of my story. I have learned so much from both facilitators and other participants.

When you find something that works for you in recovery, grab hold of it, whether that’s an exercise program (you can see an exercise physiologist during your stay if that’s your thing), or a specific kind of group or individual therapy. Everyone is different, and everyone’s recovery is different.

If this is your first admission, well done. You have put yourself on a path to recovery. You have put yourself on a path to a new life. I hope everything goes well for you. You will find the staff genuinely care about you, and that St John of God Health Care hospitals can be a pretty special place of healing.

*Fictional name has been used.