New admission to psychiatric hospital.

[Martham]

My 22-year-old son agreed to be admitted to a local psychiatric hospital yesterday.  I knew he was seeking counsleing, did not know why, I suspect he thinks he is showing signs of schizophrenia.  He has not shared any information about signs or symptoms with me.  I talked to his girlfriend and he has mentioned to her that he thinks he has signs of schizophrenia.  

My questions are many, but my first question is regarding patient rights in a mental institution.  He has never been hospitalized in his life for anything.  I would like to make sure he knows what his rights are while in the hospital.  (We are in New Mexico.).  He is at UNMH which I believe is a very good hospital.  

I think too many people just hand themselves over to medical care and do not question or sometimes even participate in the choices being made for their own healthcare whether it is mental or physical health.  They don't even realize they have certain rights while in hospital care.  

So what if he does not like his main doctor?  Or he does not like the food?  What if he wants to go outside?  I realize some of these would be specific to the hospital, but there must be just general patient rights regarding things.  I've talked to him on the phone and he is not complaining, but I just want him to know he has rights as a patient.  So what advice can I give him?  

He's only been in there about 24 hours how, it's the weekend so I don't think much is going to happen until at  least Monday as far as any information regarding his condition, etc.  

[Jaquta]

It would be nice if there were more than one doctor but I expect in the States that isn't an issue.

Good luck and I hope you get some answers soon.

[Roger Gould, M.D.]

your son's rights are well protected by the mental health laws in all states. It is even more true because your son is a voluntary patient and unless he shows signs of danger to himself or others he can leave anytime he wants or request a change of doctors anytime he wants.it is dangerous to himself or others then there are procedures that protect his rights and balance those rights against his safety.

[Jaquta]

Should the rights of a patient in a psych ward be any different to those on say an orthopedic ward?  Sorry, you hit a nerve.
All psych patients should receive information about their rights when they are admitted.  
You should be able to access both State and hospital policies on the net.

I agree that many people put blind faith in the medical profession (and judicial system) and in my experience that trust is often unwarranted and often abused.

I think that there are often medical reasons (as well as educational reasons) why people don't question or challenge medical decisions.
I think that most psych patients in particular are aware of their rights but that they can become meaningless when the person is unwell and it is a new concept to them.

I think liking food, etc is of little consequence.  I mean, who hasn't heard of jokes or quips about hospital food.
If your son has issues with his doctor then he should raise them.  If he wants to go outside then he should ask if he can go outside.

Some of his rights will depend on his level of wellness, etc.  If he is considered high risk then it is likely he will be given less freedom than say someone at lower risk.

You could remind your son that he does have rights.  You could ask if he has access to that information.  You could tell him that he has the right to change his mind about treatment at any time (although that may depend on his status.  Patients can become involuntary even after going voluntarily.).

Although it is important for a person to know their rights it is also important for them to have their feelings and concerns validated.  It is important for your son to address his issues and it would probably be helpful for your son if you supported him in that process.  Sometimes focusing on rights, etc can detract from the real issue and prevent the person from getting the appropriate support they need.

Unless your son is a danger to himself and/ or others you may not be given information about his condition.  This will be your son's decision.

I understand that you are concerned and will have questions.  Don't smother your son as you go about that process though.
I think it's commendable that he's seeking help for his own issues.

[Jaquta]

'Trying not to be too pushy,' but wanting to push and wanting answers and wanting to fix your son and take away his pain and wanting your world as you knew it back.

After your son has met with the doctor and social worker he may agree to a meeting with family and member(s) of his treatment team.  This would give you an opportunity to ask questions, etc (if he does agree).  

Have you asked your son if he would like you to visit him or be present during any of his interviews?  Just a thought.  He may also like his space.

If you contact the facility they should be able to direct you towards information or support for yourselves.  Don't overlook the impact of this on you or your family.

My (involuntary) psych admissions have been on a Friday afternoon.  Patients are treated over the weekend.
I don't know how a voluntary admission would work but I expect a doctor would have to do an initial assessment.  From that assessment treatment could be initiated.  I guess it's positive if nobody is rushing in to treat your son.  The weekend could be useful as an assessment (observation) period.
It's also a good sign if your son is being kept informed of what is happening and likely to happen.

I can relate.  I was pretty active (despite being depressed) and found limited activity and space difficult.
If your son's stay becomes longer there may be something he would like brought in.

Your son sounds like he'll be alright.  He's talking to you, at least on some level, and that's important.
If at any time there is a break down in communication I would be concerned.

I find it difficult to look at any positives of a psych admission (due to my personal experiences) but I have known others to benefit greatly from them.  Admissions are often defining moments (or turning points) in many people's lives.

Your son's prognosis will be more positive with your (wanting to put in unconditional) support.

Good luck!

[Martham]

Hi, and thank you for your replies.  I have gotten some answers from this board and other sources, internet and local library.  My son was given a copy of his patient bill of rights, it turned out, and he did read it on Saturday.  I've talked to him several times on the phone, am trying not to be too pushy.  He talked to the staff about his questions and that helped.  Of course him being admitted on a late Friday afternoon was the biggest problem, because nothing (treatment wise) is going to happen on the weekend, which is what the staff explained. Tomorrow he will see a doctor and social worker and find out what's going on hopefully.  He's a very active young man and for him to sit in that institution all weekend with not much to do has been difficult for him.  Since it is an emergency psychiatric facility it seems like they have television and some books and magazines and a small courtyard outside but that's about it as far as to keep one busy.  Anyway thanks again.  We'll see what happens.