Thursday, September 25, 2008 Jessica asks

Q: Steps to forcing hospitalization?

First of all, this website has been so helpful to me, I am hopeful for the future, no matter what happens. Thank you all for your advice and support.

So, my husband says he is going to seek treatment, but I am skeptical, and his symptoms are growing worse every day. In the event that it become necessary, how does one go about forcing hospitalization? Also, would insurance cover this? I told him we would need to spend some time apart if he didn't see a psychiatrist ASAP (although, threats probably aren't the best approach), and he said he would call the police if I left with our son. The safety of my son and unborn child are the most important things to me, I am ready to take drastic measures.

Answers (2)

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Christina Bruni

9/25/08 8:50am

Hi Jessica,

I suggest this as a form of immediate action:

Call the local hospital that has a psych ward or psych emergency room, ask them these questions:

1. My husband is exhibiting the classic signs of schizophrenia, it has gotten worse, I have children who are in danger, and my husband isn't taking care of himself, and isn't taking care of the kids. I fear for my life and the safety of my kids [lay it on thick if you need to]. How can I get him hospitalized right now? How will I be able to make sure the insurance pays for it? [You should know the phone number and the ID number of your husband's insurance, and call them up after you call the hospital, to verify they will cover a stay there, and for how long and how much they will pay.]

2. The hospital will do bloodwork to rule out or confirm the diagnosis of schizophrenia as opposed to another medication condition, like drug use.

3. Call the hospital AND the cops. Explain to the cops what is happening, and that your husband threatened to call the cops if leave with your son. A forced hospitalization could possibly require that you call the cops and the ambulance to escort him there against his will. So get the cops on your side RIGHT NOW.

4. Before you do what you do, above all, don't let on to your husband your plan of action, or he will make it difficult for you to see your son, especially if your husband has a job and you do not.

Again, I hope your situation works out so that your husband gets the help he needs, and you get some peace of mind.

Regards,

Chris

9/25/08 9:34am

Hello again Jessica,

Again Christina gives sound and very important advice.

I would just add if you can, do share a brief 'barebones' of how things are developing and the impending crisis scenario to a trusted, preferably female other ( if no good friend or family member is available or even in addition try ringing a woman's shelter crisis support help line). Obviously thinking through timing and your son's care at time of intervention needs careful thought to minimise his stress and reduce him being a witness to crisis unfolding. No doubt the professionals can help with good advice there. Be prepared.

By the sound of what you say about your husband's illness actions such as Christina suggests, should trigger enforced hospitalisation to initiate appropriate treatment for your husband, without any risk to you or your child ,because the cause for concern is so clear.

Involving the police is important.

But if for any reason that plan fails, or your husband pre-empts matters and initiates a different course you need to be able to go quickly to a place of safety and separation at this time.

Make sure you have important phone contacts,etc ready,cell phone and charger, ' basic evac pack' handy, should you have to temporarily leave your home. But as Christina says be very vigilant, and keep these measures hidden.

Thinking of you,

Chris

Q: Steps to forcing hospitalization?

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