I need advice... Psychiatric hospitals/therapy

Poll - Total Votes: 14

Yes you should try typing it out to see if it helps.

No you should probably not.

No most likely need to find a new therapist

Yes but you should also consider a new therapist for better help

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You may vote on multiple answers, up to 2.

I recently went to a psychiatric hospital I am nervous to share my experience about it with anyone.

Though I hate the fact that it repeats in my head and my family says to just forget about it and don't talk about it. It has caused me more PTSD than I already had. It plays in a loop inside my head and at moments I feel like I will wake up in that place again sometimes. I feel panic when I repeat the memory and can't help but have a pure panic attack out of it.

I wonder if I do share my story somewhere even in writing if it will help get rid of the loop in my head so much. So my question is should I just type it here or maybe consider just being quiet?

My main reason is I wonder if half the things I did do in there to avoid the trouble and force of medication being hidden away would get me in big trouble. I have done more than just that though, to be honest just to get by the days of medication and situations I was put in.

If anything I'm afraid of going back... and next time not being able to get out along with so much more.

I plan to quit therapy or find a new therapist also... due to them also sorta supporting the whole predicament happening and now am also considered for schizophrenia and I disagree. Though by this point considering what's happened in there I question if I do have it or not I got no clue anymore and I don't trust that place or my main current therapist anymore. I ended up going back to my family's place which is worse also due to the way I went to that hospital in the first place and fearing getting sent back. Just to let you know my family is terrible for so much gaslighting and other abuse in the past. They are not supportive of me speaking about it nor even my panic attacks getting any sort of help. This is also the family that has also never believed my claim of a family friend trying to sexually harass me when I was 10 and believed the guy instead and asked them themselves (which of course was denied) if they did or not. Saying I remember incorrectly when I was trying to gather evidence, especially with that mark he permanently left all those years ago on me from the many attempts. At that time I wasn't even sure my self if it actually happened too.

Never got that case due to having lack of evidence thanks to my family.

If you have any questions about anything I will respond either tonight or by tomorrow.

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Ananke · 26-30, F Best Comment

I was a psych nurse for a while. You're not going to "get in trouble" from posting your experiences anonymously on a forum and honestly you aren't the only patient who lies and hides things. In fact I would argue pretty much every patient lies about or hides something. It is part of our job and we are trained to learn about and understand our patients despite this. As someone who has also been on the patient end, I have lied or omitted details to prevent or shorten treatment time too. I did a whole research paper on why patients do this in college and it's generally due to poor policies in the mental health system, for example the ability to forcibly commit someone who says they are suicidal. This sounds good in theory but in reality states with this policy show INCREASED suicide rates because people are too afraid to be honest and get the help they actually need due to threat of hospitalization. There are a lot of other things I could use as examples and reasons why people feel the need to lie too, I won't do it here or it will be a whole essay lol. The point is, we know our patients lie and omit details and are trained to be able to discern symptoms and give treatment despite this. So you're fine :)

I also have PTSD and writing helps me immensely. I also would just get the same horrible thought stuck in my head on repeat, and writing them down for me it's like put them on a piece of paper and out of my brain so it was a great relief. I highly recommend it. You could also join an online support forum, anonymously for privacy if you wish. If you are ever curious about your schizophrenia diagnosis, I HIGHLY recommend the website schizophrenia.com's support forum, it is a wonderfully positive place. (I'm diagnosed with schizoaffective which is similar and would be happy to share how I came to be given and accept my diagnosis if you are interested).

In regards to your therapist, imo if you don't like your therapist, fire them. A good therapist will make you feel listened to but not just that you will find that you are learning new things about yourself all the time and growing as a person with their help. If you don't feel your therapist provides these things absolutely find a new one.

If you have any more questions feel free to DM me! I hope any of that is helpful.

WhateverWorks · 36-40

Please don’t listen to advice that discourages medication. I’m not saying you have schizophrenia, but if you do medication along with healthy life style changes can be the thing that saves your life and will allow you to thrive if you connect with a good doctor who you can regularly communicate with. I know it takes time to figure out what works for your body chemistry and sometimes dosage need to be updated because the body adjusts. I get the idea of needing medicine can be scary and frustrating, but ‘holistic approaches’ won’t fix it. I’m all for positive life changes that help things improve, but if you’re experiencing feelings of a lot of people being out to get you and life often feels like a puzzle where only you see the connections, things like that.. changing your diet and meditating more isn’t the solution.

If you don’t connect with your present counselor then you should find a new one though. I personally would hold off writing out your trauma story until you have proper support. A lot if times exploring trauma and that healing gets harder before it gets better, so it’s very important to have that extra support while you process.

Heavenlywarrior · 36-40, M

@WhateverWorks In worst case, she can slowly ween off it but pharmaceutical concoctions come from foods plus whatever bullshit the company puts in it , to keep their addicts hooked.

There are plenty of holistic rehabilitation centers that will help people recover self with natural foods and remedies that won’t cause harmful side effects.

Some of us aren’t falling for the bullshit anymore.

WhateverWorks · 36-40

Your ‘big pharma is evil’ stuff is harmful to people who have potentially a serious mental illness impacting their ability to live a happy life, not helpful. Some people do need medications and benefit greatly, and that’s ok, not a bad thing. They’re not ‘fools’ or ‘pawns’. If their body has a chemical imbalance they might need medication long-term throughout their life to stay balanced so they can continue to thrive/work towards a better life that they like, and that is also ok. @Heavenlywarrior

EditaPaperCom · 41-45, M

@WhateverWorks It is important to recognize that mental illness is a real and often misunderstood condition that can significantly impact an individual's ability to function and lead a fulfilling life. While there is a common perception that mental illness can be easily cured or managed through self-care or therapy alone, for some people, medication may be a necessary part of treatment.

Big pharma, or the pharmaceutical industry, has been the subject of criticism for a variety of reasons, including the high cost of medications, questionable marketing tactics, and questionable relationships with healthcare providers. However, it is important to recognize that the pharmaceutical industry also plays a crucial role in the development and distribution of medications that can be life-saving for those with mental illness.

For individuals with mental illness, medication can be an essential part of treatment. Mental illness is often caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain, and medication can help to restore balance and manage symptoms. While medication is not a cure-all, it can be an important tool in helping individuals manage their condition and lead a more fulfilling life.

There are also potential risks associated with taking medication for mental illness, including side effects and the possibility of addiction. It is important to carefully consider the potential benefits and risks of any treatment option, and to work with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.

It is also important to recognize that mental illness is not something that can be cured or managed through medication alone. Therapy, self-care, and support from friends and family can also play a crucial role in managing mental illness and leading a fulfilling life.

In summary, while it is important to be aware of the potential drawbacks of the pharmaceutical industry and to carefully consider the risks and benefits of any treatment option, it is also important to recognize that medication can be an essential part of treatment for some individuals with mental illness. It is not helpful or accurate to stigmatize or dismiss the use of medication in the treatment of mental illness, as it can be an important tool in helping individuals manage their condition and lead a more fulfilling life.

ImRileyTheDog · 22-25, F

I think you need to go at your own pace and do what you think it’s comfortable. But you also cannot hide forever, you’ll need to push yourself sometimes or have someone help with the push. Surround yourself with support, don’t allow the toxic people to influence you. It’s hard and long process but you’ll get there.

I’ve been in and out of the psychiatric hospital myself. Very different experiences I’m sure but I know how you feel to a certain extent. Took me sometimes to get back into “normal” life. Had to make a few sacrifices but in the end it all worked out for me. Might take you longer than me but you’ll get there. Time heals all wounds, it’s a process.

EditaPaperCom · 41-45, M

I'm sorry to hear about your experiences at the psychiatric hospital and the difficulties you're facing with your family. It's understandable that you may be feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do.

First and foremost, it's important to remember that you have the right to speak about your experiences and to seek support. You do not have to keep your thoughts and feelings to yourself, and talking about your experiences can be a helpful way to process them and move forward. If you feel comfortable doing so, you could consider writing about your experiences in a private journal or finding a trusted friend or family member to confide in.

If you're struggling to cope with the memories of your time in the psychiatric hospital, it might be helpful to consider seeking professional support. A therapist or counselor can provide a safe and supportive space for you to talk about your experiences and help you work through any feelings of anxiety or panic. They can also provide you with coping strategies and techniques to manage your symptoms.

It's also important to remember that you have the right to choose your own treatment and to advocate for your own needs. If you do not feel comfortable with your current therapist or do not agree with their assessment of your mental health, it may be helpful to seek a second opinion or to find a new therapist who you feel more comfortable with.

I understand that you may be worried about the potential consequences of sharing your experiences, but it's important to remember that you are not alone and that there are resources available to help you. If you are concerned about potential legal consequences, you may want to speak with a lawyer or an advocacy organization for guidance.

In the meantime, it may be helpful to focus on taking care of yourself and finding ways to manage your symptoms. This could include engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, such as hobbies or spending time with loved ones, and seeking support from trusted friends and family members.

I hope this information is helpful to you. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any further questions or concerns.

Peapod · 61-69, F

Please consider looking for a therapist that actually specializes in trauma and PTSD. Even if you have just a couple of sessions, it can make a huge difference. Conventional therapists often don't have the tools to deal with trauma.

I am sorry you had this experience and there is no good way of just forgetting about it without someone to help you do that. Start by Googling "Trauma therapists in my area". I know there is a whole website that will give you all the stats on what their specialty is and schooling. They often post their picture so you have an idea what they look like.

Good luck to you.

Heavenlywarrior · 36-40, M

Meds will only push you further into that pit. If you want healing you have to take an holistic approach. Get into Nature… meditation… and if you haven’t been eating healthy with plenty of water than that’s what uou need.

It’s only your own shadow that is haunting you and going to keep you in those loops. Inner shadow work will manifest a change in the our world we experience

SStarfish ·

😐 sorry.. some of those psych wards are horrors.. nowadays you can get proof of stuff if someone is trying anything with you .. if your family wont listen then maybe go to the cops so they can put a file out on him, it helps to build a case against him

JustGoneNow ·

@SStarfish They usually have cameras like everywhere too, because of things that had happened in the past.

JustGoneNow ·

It did help me somewhat, but also made me vulnerable to people that have bad intentions on this site. If you do, just make sure you are ready for what might be said to you and about you on this site later by other members.

Light and love. 🖤

My story

https://similarworlds.com/thoughts/personal-feelings/4211240-I-got-convinced-by-a-friend-to-share-a-part-of-my

My schizophrenia

https://similarworlds.com/thoughts/personal-feelings/4341117-Whats-schizophrenia-and-mental-illness-like-for

MrBrownstone · 46-50, M

@SW-User

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