I might be admitted

[Bipolar108]

My doc thinks I need.
It would be a break from my elderly mother whom I care for.
I am too depressive and need some stimulus.
What do you think guys, has any of you gone to a mental institution during a depression, and did it by your own?

[Sojohnson802]

Yes, in 1997.  I was very depressed and suicidal.  Currently I've been having rapid cycling since sometime in March and I've had Enough!!! Going through med changes.., psy dr..., can't seem to find a good dr.  This morning I'm just blah.  Last night I was depressed.  Since last Sunday I've been spiraling down.  Before that I was manic for about 2 weeks.  I have this crazy stressful job... And if I take a leave or oh to hospital.. It would be the end.  Mental illness still has a huge stigma!  Especially in the prof accounting world.  If they knew they would surely be trying to get rid of me.  The thing is the last 2 years I have gone through extended bipolar episodes!  :(. Before that I have been highly functional for years with only brief episodes.  It was a daily fight though. Sometimes more than others but I somehow new that I was getting close to the breaking point.  I'm so tired of fighting!! :(. I wish I could just walk away sometimes.  The stress and constant pressure of my job is killing me.  What keeps me going for now is I'm basically the sole support of my family.  :(

[ILADVOCATE]

  Generally going to a psych hospital is best when more intensive follow up is needed or a person experiences any concerns as regards stability. I have been through this in the past and when needed as directed by my psychiatrist it was helpful. You could discuss the specifics with your psychiatrist and see how to start the process if needed and what further follow up would help during the process and also after as an outpatient.
If taking care of an elderly family member creates stress perhaps trying to apply for further assistance for them such as a home attendant might be of help.