Inside a Toronto Psychiatric Hospital: What to Expect During Your Stay
Checking into a psychiatric hospital can be an overwhelming experience, especially if you don’t know what to expect. Whether you are considering hospitalization for yourself or for a loved one, understanding the process can ease some of the anxiety and help make the experience more manageable.
Arrival and Intake Process
The first step when arriving at a psychiatric hospital is the intake process. You’ll be greeted by a staff member who will ask you some basic questions and for your identification and health card information. Intake is generally followed by a triage assessment, where a nurse or mental health professional will talk with you about why you’re there. They’ll ask questions to better understand your symptoms and overall health. This process helps determine the level of care you need and what type of treatment plan would be most suitable.
Depending on your situation, you may be admitted on a voluntary or involuntary basis.
The Emergency Department Observation Unit
If admitted, you may spend some time in an Emergency Department Observation Unit before moving to a regular ward. This unit is a transitional space where patients wait until a bed becomes available in the inpatient ward. This period can vary from a few hours to longer, depending on bed availability. During this time, you won’t be allowed to have your personal items right away—they’ll need to be processed by the staff to ensure everyone’s safety.
It’s a good idea to bring items that help make your stay more comfortable, such as a hoodie, comfortable clothing, socks, and earplugs. Some hospitals allow you to have your phone and charger after an initial evaluation, but keep in mind that they will need to make sure it’s safe for you to use.
Daily Routine in a Psychiatric Hospital
The daily routine in a psychiatric hospital is structured and predictable, which helps create a sense of stability. Most days start with a wake-up call, breakfast, and a morning check-in with the staff. Throughout the day, you’ll participate in group activities, therapy sessions, and possibly one-on-one meetings with psychiatrists or therapists.
Meals are provided, but they are often aren’t appetizing. Family members or friends can bring outside food, which is always appreciated by inpatients. There may also be opportunities for supervised walks or time outdoors, depending on the hospital and your care plan. Engaging in these activities, though sometimes challenging, can make the stay more manageable and can aid in recovery.
Meeting Your Treatment Team
During your stay, you’ll meet with different members of a treatment team. This typically includes a psychiatrist, a therapist, and nursing staff. The psychiatrist will assess your mental health, make a diagnosis if needed, and prescribe medications. They sometimes order lab work, especially if starting or adjusting medications, to ensure proper dosages and to monitor side effects. Therapists may provide individual to help you understand your condition and group therapy to develop coping strategies.
Group activities can include anything from educational workshops to recreational activities like art or music. These sessions are intended to provide therapeutic benefits, promote social interaction, and reduce isolation. It’s not uncommon for these activities to feel hit or miss—some days may resonate more than others—but they offer a break from the monotony of the hospital environment.
Visitors and Communication
Visiting hours are typically scheduled, and visits from loved ones can provide much-needed comfort and support during your stay. Hospitals have different policies regarding the number of visitors allowed and the times they can come, so it’s helpful to check with staff. You can also arrange for visits by phone, and some hospitals may allow video calls. Loved ones can bring in items you might need, like additional clothing or food, and this can make a big difference in helping you feel more at ease.
Discharge Planning and Aftercare
One of the most critical aspects of your stay in a psychiatric hospital is planning for discharge. Before leaving, your treatment team will work with you to create a discharge plan, which may include outpatient psychiatric follow-ups, a referral to community resources, or recommendations for ongoing therapy. You may be assigned an outpatient psychiatrist who will continue to adjust your medications and monitor your progress.
Discharge plans often include resources like support groups, educational materials about your diagnosis, and outpatient therapy options. Making use of these resources can help you transition back to daily life and support your continued recovery.
Conclusion
Staying in a psychiatric hospital can be a challenging experience, but it’s often a necessary step towards recovery. Knowing what to expect during intake, treatment, and discharge can help demystify the process. The goal of hospitalization is to stabilize symptoms, provide a safe space for recovery, and set up a path for continued support once you leave. With the right care and follow-up, hospitalization can be a turning point that helps you regain control over your mental health and move forward with confidence.