3 Ways to Know If a Mental Hospital Is Right for You

Are you considering a Mental Hospital as treatment? If so, this list is the right article for you.

First, I want you to think about a mental hospital. What's the first thing that comes to mind? For me, its the scene from the film Good Burger. The barred windows, people walking around like zombies, looking completely disheveled, and admitting to being psychopaths. There were security guards, and people in there that were convinced they didn't need to be there. It all seemed realistic. Minus the outrageous dance scene of course. But what are they really like? Is it a place for everyone, or is it truly just for those who are "psychopaths?" Here are three simple ways to know if a mental hospital is the right treatment for you.

1. This first one is a tad bit obvious. If you're thinking about or have attempted to hurt yourself or others, then this is a guaranteed sign that you need help, and the mental hospital is the quickest and the most efficient way for you to receive it. Not only does it get you in a secure, safe place, but it also gives you plenty of time to clear your head, get away from triggers, and feel some relief. I know it sounds like an insane (no pun intended) way to get peace, but believe me, it works. Now, I do not recommend just going to a facility if you feel like you need a "break" from your daily life, because that's not what these places are for. Go to a spa for that.

2. You can't get into your regular Physician, or you don't have a Physician. If you don't have a regular Psychiatrist, or your primary care doctor can't get you in for a timely appointment, a mental hospital may be right for you. You know yourself better than anyone, and if you feel depressed, suicidal, or you have signs of a mood disorder, your doctor should make it a priority to see you. If not, not only should you find a new physician, but you should make it a priority to find a crisis center before things get worse. When it comes to mental health, handling things quickly will help you in the long run.

3. Your family and friends have asked you to get help. If your mental health gets to a point where other people are taking notice that something is truly different with you, or they ask you to seek help because it's affecting everyone's day to day life, it may be time for some serious treatment. Your mental health affects your family, and sometimes your regular treatment with a Psychiatrist and therapy isn't enough. It's sometimes needed to get into a crisis center, or mental health facility. It can be a good way to get a fresh look at new treatments that are available and get a new perspective on things.

I stayed in the hospital for four days, and although it was the toughest four days of my life, it was also the learning experience I needed to seek and continue to receive help. I thought it would be full of psychopaths and people who were completely the opposite of me, when in reality, most of them were just like me: Depressed and tired of feeling that way, and we needed help. We sought help and we got help. If you feel like you need help, don't be scared to walk into a crisis center. It might not be the perfect experience, but hindsight is 20/20, and you will learn a lot about yourself. Your family (and your future self) will be thankful you did.