A few years ago, I spent two weeks in a day treatment psychiatric facility. I realize that openly sharing this experience, especially on the internet, might raise eyebrows. In fact, my in-laws aren’t aware of this chapter in my life, and I’m not allowed to share it with them. Friends have questioned my choice to disclose such personal information, worrying it could impact future job opportunities or political aspirations. If anyone is searching for dirt on me, here it is: I’ve been in a mental institution.
Yes, I have concerns about how this revelation will be perceived and the potential implications on my life, especially regarding my hopes to adopt a child. Social services assure me that as long as I have a letter from my psychiatrist supporting my stability, it won’t be an issue. Still, I refuse to live in shame.
The National Institute of Mental Health reports that 3.5% of women aged 18 to 44—prime ages for motherhood—experience “severe psychological distress” in any given year. That’s a significant number of moms. Additionally, 5.5% of women face “major depression with severe impairment,” indicating a serious impact on their daily lives. I fell into that 5.5% category, with my struggles often hitting the higher end of the scale. Furthermore, over a quarter of all community hospital stays in the U.S. are related to mental health disorders, including depression and bipolar disorder, according to the American Psychological Association (APA). Therefore, I recognize that I’m not alone in needing psychiatric care.
Interestingly, while 57% of people believe that individuals with mental health issues receive “caring and sympathetic” treatment from others, only 25% of those experiencing mental illness feel the same way. As someone grappling with severe treatment-resistant depression and a cocktail of other diagnoses, I can attest to this disconnect.
When my medication isn’t balanced, my mind spirals into dark places. I worry about my family’s safety, envision catastrophic events, and feel overwhelmed by chaos at home. When my doctor suggested a day treatment program, I felt isolated and alone. It’s common for those of us with mental illnesses to struggle in silence, often without the support we desperately need.
Leading up to my breakdown, I had some help—my mother visited for a few days, and friends occasionally took care of my kids. However, I didn’t receive the outpouring of support I expected. No one organized meals or offered to babysit, leaving me feeling more isolated.
Upon entering the facility, I was greeted with kindness, albeit somewhat bland. I completed numerous forms and participated in group therapy. Research shows that 57% of depressed individuals who engage in cognitive-behavioral therapy in groups see significant improvement, and 40% achieve full recovery. The emotional sharing in these sessions fosters deep connections among participants. There’s hugging, laughter, and shared tears. Yet, the process can be tedious and requires a lot of emotional energy. I kept a photo of my kids handy, using it as motivation.
Throughout my time at the facility, I had regular appointments with psychiatrists and psychologists. My psychiatrist quickly identified that I had stopped taking a specific antipsychotic due to its side effects. After switching my medication, I began to feel better. I spent the remainder of my week gradually returning to a more stable mindset, although I had to complete an additional week in treatment.
During my stay, I learned coping mechanisms and received medication adjustments. Contrary to what many may envision, the facility didn’t resemble a horror movie set. My fellow patients were everyday people, all wanting to regain their lives and reconnect with their families and jobs.
Stigma surrounds mental health treatment, forcing many to choose between suffering in silence or seeking help. The logical step—treatment—often comes with feelings of shame. It’s a difficult position to be in.
Today, I’m in a much better place. I often share stories about my children in group therapy, and my psychiatrist understands that my primary goal is to be a great parent. Every appointment and medication adjustment is approached with this objective in mind. I frequently share my parenting experiences in therapy, seeking to demonstrate my capability as a mother, combating the stereotypes that often surround those of us with mental health issues.
I take a range of medications to maintain my health, but I often remind myself that it’s fewer than many heart patients take. My medications focus on regulating my mood rather than blood pressure. I care for my children, pursue my writing, and my husband trusts me to be with them. If I occasionally feel anxious about mundane things, I remind myself it’s normal and manageable. The treatment I received in the hospital and the ongoing support from my psychiatrist have made a significant difference, and I refuse to feel ashamed of my journey.
If you’re seeking more information on similar experiences, you might find our post on navigating mental health in motherhood insightful. For those interested in home insemination options, check out CryoBaby’s reputable kits for at-home procedures. And for a deeper understanding of donor insemination, consider visiting this excellent resource.
Summary:
In sharing my experience of spending time in a psychiatric facility, I aim to shed light on mental health challenges and the stigma surrounding them. I emphasize the importance of seeking help and the support that can be found in unexpected places. My journey underscores that with the right treatment and perspective, it’s possible to manage mental health issues and maintain a fulfilling life.
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