What Exactly Is a Psych Ward?
A psych ward is dedicated solely to mental healthcare.
Patients have access to their own rooms or suites and shared spaces to promote socialization and interaction.
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What Are the Different Types of Psych Wards?
Psychiatric wards are also sometimes called mental health wards or behavioral health wards.
These facilities typically provide around-the-clock observation and care by trained professionals who can also administer medications.
Psych Ward vs. Psychiatric wards also offer a much more intense level of care than what’s provided inoutpatient facilities.
Why Would You Be Admitted to a Psych Ward?
If you are having suicidal thoughts, contact theNational Suicide Prevention Lifelineat988for support and assistance from a trained counselor.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
What Happens Once You’re Admitted to a Psych Ward?
You might be wondering, “What happens if I’m admitted to a psychiatric ward?”
You’ll also meet with a psychiatrist who will discuss your psychiatric history and current symptoms in detail.
After evaluating you, the doctor may prescribe medications to help ease your symptoms and make you more comfortable.
Can You Leave a Psych Ward?
Also, keep in mind that many psychiatric wards have strict visitation policies.
Typically, you won’t be allowed to see anyone except immediate family members.
Visits may also be restricted to certain time periods and supervised by a staff member.
Can You Be Restrained or Forced to Stay in a Psychiatric Ward?
This is known as being “committed” or “involuntarily committed.”
Your doctor may also prescribe sedatives or anti-anxiety medication.
Admission to such facilities is often involuntary and happens if a person presents a risk to themselves or others.
Because they offer intensive, continuous care, psych wards can help stabilize people during psychiatric emergencies.
They can also work to help people developcoping skillsand transition to outpatient care.
Vermont Department of Mental Health.Psychiatric Hospitalization.
An interview-based study.Int J Ment Health Syst.
2019;6(3):343-348. doi:10.1016/j.ijnss.2019.04.002
