Have you ever felt like you’ve lost all control in your life? Perhaps you’ve experienced an inpatient hospitalization and felt overwhelmed with the thoughts and emotions that come with it. In this article, we’ll explore some of the feelings and thoughts associated with being in a hospital and offer some guidance on coping with them.
First and foremost, it’s important to note that this article is not intended to replace the guidance of your treatment team. If you’re experiencing a hospitalization, please discuss any tools or techniques you read about here with your clinicians before implementing them, and always prioritize your safety above all else.
Surviving a hospitalization requires a variety of skills and strengths. You’ll need to listen, reflect, learn new habits, adjust to a new environment, and cultivate a sense of safety even when you feel you’ve lost control over your life. Learning to practice self-reflection and tapping into your inner strength to overcome challenges will be vital in regaining the strength you need to move closer to discharge. Remember, the moment you were escorted onto the unit floor isn’t the moment you gave up your autonomy; it’s the start of your journey toward recovery.
In this article, we’ll explore three critical skills for anyone going through an inpatient hospitalization: 1) interacting with staff, 2) self-reflection and self-care, and 3) rediscovering your inner guidance system to regain self-control.
One of the most important things to remember when you’re in the hospital is that the staff supports you in your recovery. They’re not there to be a roadblock or an obstacle in your way. It can be easy to feel paranoid or anxious about their mental status evaluations, but remember that mastering your behavior and interactions with staff will only help you in the long run. If you feel agitated or frustrated with the unit’s rules, take some time to reflect on your readiness for discharge. Reporting your mental status to staff isn’t a way to keep you hospitalized longer; it’s a way to address any roadblocks that might prevent you from progressing in your recovery.
One of the most significant opportunities you’ll have during your hospitalization is to practice self-care. This is a chance to focus on yourself and prioritize your needs in a safe and controlled environment. If you’re struggling to stay clean or hygienic on the unit, it may be a sign that you’re not quite ready to do these things independently. Use this time to master your coping skills and practice self-soothing activities. Take advantage of the time between rounds to try out different techniques and strategies, and always discuss your outcomes with your treatment team to get their feedback and recommendations.
Finally, before you’re discharged, take some time to reflect on whether or not you feel safe. Knowing yourself and trusting your inner guidance system is crucial when regaining control over your life. This is also an excellent time to test your doubts and practice troubleshooting instances where those doubts might be challenged. Stay connected with your social world, and don’t forget that you’ll be re-entering that world after your hospitalization. If your behavior before admission caused issues with friends or family members, take the time to discuss where you were in terms of your mental health after a period of self-reflection.
In conclusion, hospitalization can be a challenging and overwhelming experience, but it is also an opportunity to reflect, learn, and grow. By mastering self-reflection, interacting with staff, and rediscovering your inner guidance system, you can regain control and move closer to your ultimate recovery.
Remember to be patient and give yourself time to adjust to your new environment. Take advantage of this time to practice self-care and coping skills that will serve you well after you leave the hospital. And always communicate openly with your treatment team, as they are there to support you in your recovery.
Finally, trust in yourself and your inner guidance system. You have the strength and resilience to overcome this challenge and emerge more substantial and self-aware on the other side. With the right mindset and tools, you can use your hospitalization as a stepping stone toward a happier, healthier future.
Author Info:
Max E. Guttman
Max E. Guttman is the owner of Mindful Living LCSW, PLLC, a private mental health practice in Yonkers, New York.
