Posted by Penny on June 29, 2002, at 15:49:58
In reply to Being hospitalized, posted by Angel Girl on June 29, 2002, at 0:07:03
Angel Girl,
I, too, have never been hospitalized. But a few weeks ago, my therapist told me it was between hospitalization or entering some sort of intensive outpatient program. Of course, I opted for the IOP, which consists of group therapy for three hours - two different types of group. The first is 'agenda group', where you just talk about whatever you want to talk about. The second is 'planning group' where you plan for the week or the weekend, except on Wednesdays when it is more like a class on different skills that might help you through the hard times. I go MWF, though some folks go MWThF. Despite my best attempts to remain down and on the verge of collapse, I must say I really think this group is helping. Of course, I'm taking longer to get through it than some of the folks do (they told me the average was 2-4 weeks, I've already been doing it for over 2 weeks.), but whatever. I think it's good, and I really like the therapist. Of course, I also have a regular therapist and a pdoc who are both very supportive. But I'm not having nearly as many suicidal thoughts (tho' they are still there somewhat).
There are also partial hospitalization programs which are more intensive and last most of the day every day. My therapist recommended the IOP b/c her feeling was hospitalization wouldn't teach me to deal with my reality, whereas IOP does, b/c I'm still living in the real world.
Of course, if you're seriously considering suicide, I'll say the same thing as everyone else...you may need to be hospitalized. And I know it's scary, it is for me too, but sometimes you just gotta do what you gotta do to save your life.
But IOP and partial hospitalization programs are an option you may want to consider. Many hospitals offer them.
Take care of yourself.
Penny
poster:Penny
thread:460
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20020516/msgs/475.html