Adjusting After Leaving the Hospital

When transitioning from hospital care, it’s common to feel a mix of hope and apprehension. While you might be optimistic about the future, you could also experience fear, isolation, and uncertainty about your ability to manage. To ease this transition, seek as much support as possible. Connect with family and friends, and communicate your needs clearly. If you desire additional social connections, consider joining a support group or engaging with peer programs offered by the Mental Health Association.

Establishing a routine and planning daily activities can be very beneficial. Engage in relaxing and enjoyable activities like painting, walking, listening to music, or anything that brings you joy. Simply getting outside each day can be uplifting. Many individuals find it helpful to set realistic goals and understand that it’s okay not to tackle everything immediately after leaving the hospital. Staying close to home and avoiding major decisions at first might be wise. You might choose to gradually return to work or volunteer before pursuing full-time employment.

Managing stress effectively is crucial. Prioritizing medication stabilization is important for many. Keep appointments with doctors and therapists, follow written instructions, and adhere to prescribed medication regimens. Case managers and advocates can also assist with navigating paperwork and interacting with social service agencies.

Addressing Stigma

Despite the fact that mental illnesses have biological roots and affect millions of people, stigma (shame or discredit) still surrounds mental health issues. This stigma can sometimes hinder your ability to seek help.

Many individuals who have received mental health services prefer the terms “consumer” or “recipient” over “patient” to emphasize their active role in managing their care rather than seeing themselves as helpless victims. As a consumer, you have the right to receive high-quality services, and focusing on your treatment should take precedence over concerns about others’ perceptions. All services listed on this website are confidential, ensuring that information about your treatment remains private except in emergencies.

Building Relationships With Mental Health Professionals

A successful relationship with mental health professionals involves setting shared goals and collaborating towards them. During acute phases of illness, you may rely on family or other professionals to assess the quality of care. As symptoms improve, you should take a more active role in evaluating your treatment. Ensure that you and your professional share the same treatment goals, that medication is effective and manageable, and that ethical standards are upheld. It’s important to receive equitable and respectful treatment regardless of personal characteristics such as age, race, sexual orientation, or income. Do not feel intimidated; expect a cooperative relationship and seek a second opinion if needed.

Deciding What to Share

As a recipient of mental health services, you have the opportunity to help diminish the stigma associated with mental illness. As your treatment progresses, you may choose to discuss your experiences, symptoms, diagnosis, and medication with those close to you. Encouraging your family and friends to share their understanding with others can contribute to a broader community awareness. By helping to reduce stigma, you contribute to making the recovery journey smoother for others who follow.