Logan Reid
Checking into a hospital for suicide can be a daunting but necessary step in seeking help for yourself or a loved one. While it may be challenging to ask for help, hospitals and emergency rooms are equipped to provide support and stabilize individuals experiencing a mental health crisis or having thoughts of suicide. The decision to seek inpatient hospitalization or outpatient treatment depends on various factors, including the severity of the crisis and the availability of resources. Inpatient hospitalization involves a short-term stay at a hospital or behavioral health facility, providing close monitoring and specialized care. Outpatient treatment, on the other hand, allows individuals to receive therapy, psychiatry, and group support while residing at home. It is important to recognize the signs that indicate the need for hospitalization, such as active suicidal thoughts, plans, or a mental health crisis. Seeking immediate help through emergency services, hotlines, or local hospitals can be the first step towards getting the necessary support and developing a plan for ongoing care.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| When to go to the hospital | When you are actively suicidal, experiencing a mental health crisis, or having thoughts of suicide |
| Who can go to the hospital | Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts or planning |
| What to expect | Mental health evaluations, suicide assessments, inpatient or outpatient treatment, medication management, individual/group/family therapy |
| Treatment options | Inpatient hospitalization, outpatient treatment, partial hospitalization programs, intensive outpatient programs, residential treatment programs, psychiatric hospitalization |
| Length of stay | 5-7 days on average for inpatient hospitalization, but can vary |
| Hospital protocols | Vary from state to state |
| Support | 988 Lifeline, Crisis Text Line, National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, local emergency services, mental health professionals |
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What You'll Learn
When to check into hospital for suicide
Checking into a hospital for suicide prevention can be a scary but life-saving decision. If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, it's important to seek immediate help. Here are some signs that indicate when checking into a hospital for suicide prevention is necessary:
Risk of Self-Harm or Harming Others
If you or someone you know is at risk of harming themselves or others, inpatient hospitalization may be necessary to ensure safety and stabilization. This is especially true if the person is experiencing an acute crisis with moderate to high suicide risk. Inpatient care can provide close monitoring and specialized treatment to address the immediate danger.
Inability to Manage Suicidal Thoughts
If an individual is struggling with persistent and intense suicidal thoughts that they are unable to manage effectively, hospitalization can provide a higher level of care. This includes psychiatric hospitals or residential treatment programs that specialize in suicide prevention and mental health crisis management.
Need for Stabilization and Safety
Hospitalization can provide a safe and stabilizing environment for individuals experiencing a mental health crisis. This is particularly relevant if the person is having difficulty taking care of themselves or maintaining their basic needs. The goal of hospitalization in this case is to help the individual regain stability and develop a plan for ongoing treatment.
Acute Psychotic Episode
Hospitalization may be necessary if an individual is experiencing an acute psychotic episode, where they are unable to differentiate between what is real and what isn't. This can be a sign of a mental health crisis and may require immediate intervention to ensure the person's safety.
Inability to Access Outpatient Care
In some cases, outpatient treatment may not be accessible or sufficient to address the individual's needs. If outpatient interventions are unavailable or ineffective in reducing the risk of suicide, hospitalization can provide more intensive and comprehensive care. This includes access to mental health professionals who can conduct suicide risk assessments and determine the appropriate level of care.
It is important to note that the decision to seek hospitalization should be made in consultation with mental health professionals, who can provide personalized recommendations based on the individual's specific circumstances and needs.
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How to prepare for a hospital stay
Checking into a hospital for suicide prevention can be a daunting experience, but it is an important step towards getting the help and support you need. Here are some things to keep in mind as you prepare for a hospital stay:
Reach Out for Help:
If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or self-harm, it is crucial to seek support. You can call or text dedicated helplines, such as 988 in the United States, to connect with caring counselors who provide free and confidential assistance. These services are available 24/7, and you can also find international helplines through Befrienders Worldwide. If you feel safe doing so, you can also call your local emergency services number.
Prepare for the Hospital Visit:
When you arrive at the emergency room (ER) of a hospital and express your concerns about suicidal thoughts, the staff will initiate a mental health evaluation. This evaluation will help determine the appropriate level of care needed. Be prepared to answer questions honestly and provide information about any plans, previous attempts, medications, and issues affecting your mental state. The evaluation is a crucial step in ensuring you receive the right support.
Understand the Treatment Options:
Based on the evaluation, the mental health professionals will recommend the best course of treatment. This could include inpatient hospitalization, where you receive 24/7 care and support in a specialized unit within a hospital or a freestanding psychiatric hospital. The average length of stay for inpatient hospitalization is 5-7 days, but it can vary. Alternatively, partial hospitalization programs (PHP) or intensive outpatient programs (IOP) offer treatment during the day or specific hours, allowing you to return home at night. These programs typically involve therapy, psychiatry, and group support.
Pack Essential Items:
If you are admitted to the hospital, bring essential items such as comfortable clothing, toiletries, books or other forms of entertainment, and any medications you are currently taking. You may also want to bring items that provide comfort, like a favourite pillow or blanket. Ensure you leave behind any items that could be harmful, such as sharp objects or substances that could cause harm.
Inform a Support Person:
If possible, let a trusted friend or family member know about your hospital stay. They can provide emotional support and assist with any practical arrangements, such as helping to pack or taking care of any pets or plants while you are away. Having a support person involved can also help you feel less isolated during this challenging time.
Remember, seeking help at a hospital for suicide prevention is a courageous step towards healing. The staff at the hospital will work to ensure you receive the care and attention needed to stabilize your mental health and keep you safe.
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Types of treatment available
Checking into a hospital can be a life-saving decision when experiencing suicidal thoughts or feelings. Seeking help when thoughts become severe or distressing is crucial, and there are various treatments available to address suicide risk and promote healing.
Inpatient Hospitalization:
Inpatient hospitalization is a form of acute care where individuals receive 24/7 supervision and support in a hospital setting. This level of care is typically reserved for those at high risk of harming themselves or others. During inpatient treatment, individuals are removed from their everyday environments and placed in a controlled and safe space. The average length of stay is 5-7 days, but this can vary depending on the individual's needs and progress.
Inpatient hospitalization can involve various therapeutic activities, such as art therapy, music, and sports, as well as individual and group therapy sessions. This level of care aims to stabilize the patient and ensure their immediate safety.
Outpatient Treatment:
Outpatient treatment is a less intensive form of care where individuals participate in weekly or multiple times-weekly therapy, psychiatry, and group meetings. This level of care is suitable for those who are not at imminent risk but may be experiencing suicidal thoughts or ideation. Outpatient treatment allows individuals to continue their daily lives while receiving structured support.
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP):
A partial hospitalization program is an outpatient day treatment option. Individuals attend treatment during the day, usually for 6 or more hours, and return home to sleep. PHPs can be offered at hospitals, behavioral health clinics, or mental health care centers. Treatment typically includes individual therapy, psychiatry, group therapy, psycho-educational groups, and recreational or expression therapy.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP):
An intensive outpatient program is a step up from traditional outpatient treatment. It involves attending sessions 3-4 times a week, usually for 3-4 hours at a time, often in the afternoons or evenings. IOPs allow individuals to maintain their daily routines while receiving more intensive therapy and support.
Pharmacological and Biological Treatments:
In conjunction with therapy, certain medications can help reduce suicide risk. Antidepressants, lithium, clozapine, ketamine, esketamine, and ECT (electroconvulsive therapy) are some of the pharmacological treatments used. It is important to carefully monitor these medications, especially in younger patients, to ensure they do not have disinhibiting effects.
Psychotherapy:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) are recommended types of psychotherapy to reduce suicide risk. These therapies help individuals manage their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, providing them with tools to cope with suicidal ideation and improve their overall mental health.
Therapeutic Interventions:
Other therapeutic interventions that have been suggested for further exploration include the use of buprenorphine, non-invasive brain stimulation techniques (rTMS and tDCS), and chronotherapy. These interventions target the biological and psychological factors linked to suicide risk, offering alternative approaches to traditional therapy and medication.
The above treatments offer a range of options for addressing suicide risk and supporting individuals on their path to recovery. It is important to remember that seeking help is a courageous act, and there are professionals dedicated to providing the level of care needed to promote healing and ensure safety.
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What to expect during a hospital stay
Checking into a hospital for suicide can be a scary experience, but it is an important step towards getting the help and support you need. Here is some information on what to expect during a hospital stay for suicide prevention:
Evaluation and Assessment
When you arrive at the hospital and express that you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or feelings, you will be evaluated by a mental health professional. This evaluation will help determine the level of care and treatment you need. Be prepared to answer questions honestly about your mental state, including any medications you are taking, previous attempts or thoughts of suicide, and any issues or stressors in your life. One of the assessment tools used may be the Columbia Protocol, or Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS), which helps identify how likely someone is to attempt suicide and the level of support they require.
Inpatient or Outpatient Hospitalization
Based on the evaluation, the mental health professional will decide whether inpatient or outpatient hospitalization is most suitable for you. Inpatient hospitalization is typically used when an individual is at risk of harming themselves or others and requires 24/7 acute care and supervision. The average length of stay for inpatient hospitalization is 5-7 days, though this can vary. During your stay, you may participate in various treatments and activities such as therapy, art therapy, or recreational activities.
Outpatient hospitalization, on the other hand, allows you to receive treatment during the day but return home at night. This can take the form of partial hospitalization programs (PHP) or intensive outpatient programs (IOP), with varying frequencies and durations.
Transfer to a Higher Level of Care
In some cases, if it is determined that you need additional support that cannot be provided at the current facility, you may be transferred to a higher level of care. This could include residential treatment programs or psychiatric hospitals. The goal is to get you to a specialized facility that can provide the best care for your specific needs.
Remember that hospital protocols for suicide may vary depending on your location, and not all experiences will be the same. It is important to prioritize your safety and well-being and seek help when needed.
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What to do after being discharged from hospital
Following a suicide attempt, you may be feeling a range of emotions and trying to make sense of what happened. It's important to remember that your life matters and that healing is possible. Be kind to yourself and give yourself time to recover. You may want to consider finding a therapist or another mental health professional, or joining a support group. It's also a good idea to lean on your support network of family and friends to help with day-to-day responsibilities.
If you have been discharged from the hospital following a suicide attempt, it is important to follow up with a primary care physician or mental health professional. If you were not given a psychiatric referral upon discharge, this should be a priority. Your physician should have a clear strategy for dealing with your situation and be knowledgeable about local mental health resources. They can help you navigate your health insurance, as understanding this can be overwhelming.
It is important to continue to monitor your mental health and be aware of what puts you at risk. If you are feeling suicidal again, contact emergency services or the National Suicide Prevention Hotline (1-800-273-TALK [8255]).
If you have firearms or potentially lethal medications in your home, ask a friend or family member to remove them. It is also a good idea to inform close contacts to remove any guns from households that you may have access to.
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Frequently asked questions
If you or someone you know is considering suicide, you should seek immediate help. Call or text the 988 Lifeline at 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. You can also text HOME to the Crisis Text Line at 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor. If you feel safe to do so, you can also call 911 or your local emergency services number.
When you go to the ER and tell health workers that you are having suicidal thoughts, they will call a mental health professional to determine the level of care needed. Mental health evaluations generally take the form of a suicide assessment, which helps determine the next steps.
Inpatient hospitalization is used when an individual is at risk of harming themselves or others. The average length of stay is 5-7 days but can vary depending on the patient's needs. Inpatient hospitalization aims to keep individuals safe and stabilize them during a crisis.
Outpatient treatment typically involves weekly therapy, psychiatry, or group meetings. Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) are usually 3-4 hours long and occur 3-4 times a week. Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs) are another form of outpatient treatment where individuals attend day treatment for 6+ hours every day or every weekday.
After checking out of the hospital, you will receive a care plan for your ongoing treatment. Research shows an increased risk for suicide following discharge, so it is important to have a plan in place for your safety. Reach out to your therapist or loved ones for extra support if needed.
