Hospitalization: What You Should Know Before You Go.

Last night at the DBSA meeting the group had a varied discussion on hospitalization. It is not something any of us want to think about for ourselves, but is even harder when we must consider it for our children. Sometimes it is the only answer and a far better one than looking the other way. Children I know of as young as five have attempted suicide. With teens, the numbers are skyrocketing. It is not unusual for a bipolar child or teen to be hospitalized and parents should expect this and try to be prepared. I know it is not something we really want to prepare for, but if your child had cancer you would check out the hospitals to be sure your child got the best care possible. When dealing with a mental facility this is even more important. They are not all created equally. If you have health insurance, you may not have a choice of which facility to use. Be sure to call your mental health plan administrator and take notes. In a time of crisis you will probably not be able to think straight, let alone make all the calls and decisions. Some of the things to ask about if you do call or visit a unit are:

How many registered nurses are on a unit. There should be more than one, and more nurses than psych technicians and aids.

Ask about involuntary administration of medication, seclusion and restraints. These should only be used as a last resort or not at all.

Find out how often you will be able to see and speak to your child. Often a children's unit will only let you visit on certain days and times. They often want the child to have as little contact with the parents as possible because they feel the parent is the child's main problem. This is extremely important if your child is very young or if they have separation issues.

Find out what happens when your child is released. Is there a support group for your child and for you? Do they offer parenting classes? Will your child require special aftercare such as a half day program for a while?

It will never be easy to put your child in a hospital even if you think it would be a real relief for a little while. The more you know and the more prepared you are the easier it will be to deal with.

Pack a bag to take with the child. Be sure to include a stuffed animal for them to sleep with. Usually with clothing they want you to send two of everything and label it all with your child's name. Leave everything else at home. The hospital will check the bag and you will have to sign off on the contents. If the child is allowed any other items, like a favorite quilt or music, the staff will advise you and you can bring it when you visit. Be sure before you leave you know what number to call to check on your child and who you would contact with a complaint or problem. Hopefully you won't have any problems, but it is good to be prepared.

The most important thing to remember is that you are not alone. Try to find a support group for yourself.