Psychiatric evaluation

[pbocka]

I am debating undergoing an inpatient psychiatric evaluation. For some time now I have been experiencing an increase in my anxiety and phobia reactions to the point of chest pains and being on edge. What can I expect upon requesting such a medical based appointment?

[Hidden]

I can't answer your question, but I wish you luck in what you decide!

[Hidden]

It is my understanding that you may first be asked to undergo a telephone interview to access if your situation meets their criteria. Sometimes a Psy doc, or even a PC doc, needs to make the recommendation for the initial consult. A regular ER can also do this. Then, you’d be given an in-person assessment to determine your eligibility for in-house psychiatric treatment. They will do a physical exam to rule out any physical medical conditions that might be causing any of your symptoms. If they then feel that you need in-house treatment, you will be checked in for care.

I watched a coworker go through this process and was surprised how much red tape he had to go through. He did not have a Psy doc which made the process more difficult. He stayed for 48 hours and they released him with meds and connected him with a Psy doc. Their main focus is whether or not you are a direct and immediate threat to yourself or others. This is quite sad as many people need that type of care BEFORE they become such a threat.

This was merely what I observed a coworker go through. Each state and insurance companies vary on this process.

I hope this helps a little bit.

Please don’t hesitate to follow through with this plan if you feel this type of treatment is necessary. Best wishes!

[Penny-dumped-Leonard in reply to Hidden]

I’m glad I went. I learned it sort of puts you “at the front of the line” sorta speak as far as medical attention.

I went to the newest facility locally.

Frankly, it was, for an experience in the hospital, pretty cool. I practiced a stand up routine because really … who is going to judge? I made fun of myself and our collective situation and we all laughed.

I played soccer and colored.

The food at this hospital was tasty, too, and they had all sorts of options for folks with dietary needs.

Some folks are afraid that it’s like the movie One Flew Over the Coocoo’s Nest with Jack Nicholason. My experience wasn’t like that but I also went to a private hospital and did not go to state run facility so I’m sure each spot differs.

Yes, I felt scared there at times but I spoke with my roommate in the hospital and we had a duress word. We agreed that if one of us said “chestnuts” we knew to go get the doctor or nurse for help. We abided by that and we helped each other. I wish her well.

For me the hardest part was I was supposed to rest and not return to work for 6 months. I stayed with my parents 20 days until my mom punched me in the face for cleaning dog shit and I have struggled to find a place to stay as I recovered. Homelessness wasn’t fun; it was also necessary for the moment.

Fortunately I’m learning that a friend will typically give me a place to stay when needed and a meal in my belly.

In my experience, I had warm, supportive physicians and staff who seemed to really give a damn.

I wish you well and bravery on your journey.

[Frankie24]

Hospitalizations are really helpful. Unfortunately there is always good and bad to everything. I think first you need to understand that you probably won’t be considered for an inpatient hospitalization unless you’re in danger of harming yourself or someone else. Insurance is so strict. There are partial hospitalization that give you the benefits of hospitalization without staying at the hospital. I can expound more on inpatient hospitalization if you would like as I have had many in years past but won’t go on here as to much information. PM me if you would like.

[pbocka in reply to Frankie24]

I would appreciate that

[Frankie24 in reply to pbocka]

do you know how to use PM

[car103]

Inpatient before working with a psychiatrist and therapist? To me it is the cart before the horse unless you are a danger to yourself or others. Find a doctor. Psych units are short on beds. You are diagnosed, medicated and sent on your way; needing to find a psychiatrist to refill your meds. Feel better