Psychiatric Hospitalization

Most people stay in the hospital for a few days to about a week, although some people may stay longer if needed. Your length of stay is based on your individual needs, the severity of your symptoms, and how well you are functioning. You’ll work with your doctor and treatment team to decide how long is needed.

Keep in mind the goals of hospitalization:

• To keep you safe.
• To reduce your symptoms and help you function better.
• To determine a diagnosis if one is not yet made.
• Teach you ways to manage your mental health after you leave.
• To help you create a plan for ongoing treatment.

Your admission, medical records and treatment in the inpatient unit are completely private. You control your privacy and decide who will be given information about your condition. This is done through a written release form, which you must approve and sign.

Some people whom you may want to contact during your stay include:

• Your outpatient health care provider. If you have an outpatient primary care or mental health provider, they can be contacted with your written consent. Keeping your provider informed helps ensure the best care during and after you leave the hospital.
• University of Michigan Dean of Students Office. Their staff is ready to support you and can contact your instructors, resident advisor, roommates or others if needed. They will only make these contacts with your permission while respecting your privacy. A social worker on your care team can help you arrange this.
• Supportive family and friends. It can also be helpful to reach out to trusted friends and family during your stay. Your treatment team can contact them, but only if you agree.

Your mental health should always come first. You’ll be much more productive in your classes once you feel better. However, if your treatment team agrees, you may be able to work on some assignments while in the hospital. Ask a friend or classmate to bring you materials, or contact the U-M Dean of Students Office.

Hospital staff can help you avoid issues with missed tests or assignments by contacting your school or college and letting them know that you are unable to attend class due to hospitalization. The reason for your stay, your diagnosis and location will not be shared.

Once you leave the hospital, you can work with the dean’s office and others to make a back-to-school plan.

A key part of your hospital stay is working with your treatment team to develop a plan for maintaining your health after you return home. Your plan should include both professional treatment and self-care. Our discharge checklist offers helpful steps to take before leaving. These include: 

• Finding an outpatient provider and scheduling your first appointment. If you don't have an outpatient mental health provider, you’ll need to find one. Your treatment team will help you with this and make sure you have the information to schedule your first appointment.
• Take your medications as prescribed. Know their names, why you are taking them, and what side effects you might experience. Use this medication log to keep track of your prescriptions.
• Practicing your coping skills and self-care. During your hospitalization, you will learn new coping skills to help you maintain your health and manage your mental well-being. It will also be essential to practice good self-care habits to maintain your health.

Tips on how you can take care of your mental health

• Maintain a regular sleep schedule. It may be tough during busy times, but getting quality sleep every night is very important to your mental health.
• Learn as much about your mental illness as you can. Work with your provider to create a list of warning signs that may indicate an episode is approaching.
• Keep your mental health appointments. Attend regular appointments with a doctor or therapist you trust. Keep them informed about what’s going on in your life. Don’t be afraid to change providers if you don’t feel comfortable.
• Schedule time for activities you enjoy. Creating healthy habits outside of school or work is important to maintaining a balanced life.

First steps to take when returning to campus:

• Make sure you are ready. You may want to dive back into classes and homework. Still, it’s crucial to prioritize your mental health. Don’t go back until you're ready.
• Establish a routine. Create times to eat, sleep, move and be compliant with your health care provider’s treatment plan, including taking your medication regularly.
• Take some time to rest. Do something relaxing that you enjoy.
• Try to avoid activities that cause you stress or frustration. It may take some time before you can take on as many responsibilities as you would like. Be patient with yourself and what you’re able to do.
• If you face a tough decision, ask for help. Talk to a mental health professional, an academic counselor, a family member or a friend. You don’t have to make big choices alone.

Getting back to class:

• Contact the University of Michigan Dean of Students Office when you are ready to return. They can help you transition back to classes. If you know an academic advisor there, reach out to them first.
• Email each professor or instructor to set up a one-on-one meeting. You don't need to share details about your condition or the reason for your hospital stay. Share only what you're comfortable with. Professors and instructors are usually very supportive. If you face any issues, contact Services for Students with Disabilities or the Office of the Ombuds for help. Writing down what you want to say can help you feel more at ease when talking to your professors or instructors.