When to go to the Hospital for Depression

Depression is a common mental health disorder caused by traumatic events, stress, lack of support and isolation. It also runs in families and can be triggered by changes in hormones, chronic medical conditions and substance use. Approximately 8% of adults aged 18 and older in the United States report at least one major depressive episode yearly. Whether you have clinical depression or are supporting someone who has the condition, knowing when to seek professional care is important. This blog explores the signs indicating it’s time to seek hospital care and discusses the significance of reaching out even in nonemergency situations.

Red Flags and Crisis Symptoms

Depression can feel overwhelming and all-consuming. Symptoms may start small and escalate until they affect your life and health. When clinical depression becomes a crisis, immediate help is necessary. Some warning signs include:

• Suicidal thoughts. Suicidal ideation includes thoughts of suicide and death or expressing intent. This requires medical attention. For immediate help, call 911.
• Self-harm. Using cutting and other dangerous behaviors as a coping mechanism should never be ignored.
• New symptoms. These symptoms may include hallucinations, delusions or manic episodes.
• Inability to function. Hospitalization may be necessary when depression causes a person to go for days without eating, bathing or sleeping.
• Increased alcohol or substance abuse. Uncontrolled drug and alcohol use also requires professional intervention.

Difference Between Severe and Manageable Depression

Depression can manifest in several forms, and not all require hospitalization. However, distinguishing between severe and manageable depression can often be challenging. An individual with manageable depression may experience persistent sadness and changes in appetite and sleep patterns. It’s also common to lose interest in hobbies. Most people with manageable depression are still able to go to work, make meals and function. Treatment includes a combination of lifestyle changes, therapy and medications. Severe clinical depression significantly impairs quality of life. Some of the most common symptoms include:

• Lack of energy
• Difficulty concentrating and making decisions
• Excessive guilt and feelings of worthlessness
• Physical aches and pains
• Digestive issues without an apparent cause
• Feelings of sadness that occur every day for at least 2 weeks
• Increased absenteeism from work or school

What the Hospital Admission Process Looks Like

It’s natural to feel nervous about the hospital admission process for depression. It may vary depending on where you receive inpatient care, but there are a few standard procedures.

Step 1: Referral for Admissions

Inpatient care usually requires a referral from a licensed therapist or other mental health provider. Those deemed a threat to themselves or others may be involuntarily admitted under the Mental Health Act.

Step 2: The Assessment

During preadmission, an assessment helps determine what services are needed. This assessment includes questions about prior mental health treatments and past medical history and addresses any current concerns, such as substance addiction. A physical exam and lab tests help identify other medical problems. The admission team also verifies your insurance and financial information.

Step 3: The Treatment Plan

Health care providers create a treatment plan based on the outcome of the preadmission assessments. The plan may include a combination of group and family meetings, medications, therapy and specialized treatments. The treatment plan also includes aftercare instructions.

How Hospitalization Can Help With Clinical Depression

Impatient care provides many benefits for those experiencing a mental health crisis and extreme depression.

Medical Support

The main benefit of inpatient care is around-the-clock medical support. Access to a therapist or medical staff is important, especially for patients experiencing severe symptoms. Meaningful conversations with staff also offer encouragement and help patients work through difficult moments.

Structured Environment

A structured environment provides a regular routine to help reduce anxiety and stress. Living spaces are clean and organized to minimize potential triggers. Items that cause distractions, such as cell phones and laptops, aren’t allowed in inpatient treatment.

Medication Management

Finding the correct medication for depression is a process. What works for one person may not work for others. A therapist may try several medications and adjust the dosages to find what works best. Inpatient treatment makes it easier to monitor a patient while exploring new options.

Social Interactions

Group and social activities help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. Group therapy also helps build a network of individuals who offer understanding and encouragement.

Stabilization

Individuals struggling with a dual diagnosis receive detox treatment and additional support for addiction.

Post-Discharge Planning and Support

The average hospital stay for individuals with severe depression is around 40 days. The exact time varies from a few days to several weeks, depending on the severity of the condition and the success of the treatment. Once discharged, you’ll likely receive instructions for outpatient therapy, apointments for psychiatric follow-ups and information on local group therapy meetings. You’ll also receive a crisis plan, which includes steps to take if your symptoms return.

When It’s Not an Emergency But You Still Need Help

Not everyone in a mental health crisis requires hospitalization. If you feel your depression is interfering with your quality of life, it’s important to know how to get help for depression and reach out for assistance. Signs you should seek medical attention include:

• Feeling overwhelmed or emotionally numb
• Withdrawing from family and friends
• Crying constantly
• Experiencing constant fatigue, even after sleeping
• Not feeling like yourself anymore

The Power of Seeking Help

Understanding the red flags of a mental health crisis from clinical depression can be lifesaving. By getting help for depression, you take a proactive step toward maintaining your mental well-being. For free and confidential assistance or information, contact the Mental Health Hotline.