What Percentage of Psychiatric Patients Experience Trauma?
Psychiatric hospitalization can be negatively experienced, and some studies even show a high frequency of traumatic occurrences. A study published in the National Library of Medicine reported that 69% of patients perceived their hospitalization visit as traumatic. Women and homemakers were also more likely to be traumatized than other individuals.
Explore Psychiatric Hospitalization Trauma Therapy Online or In-Person
Why Are Psych Wards Traumatic?
Psych wards are considered to be traumatic due to the themes of neglect and abuse, coercion and obedience, as well as dehumanization and fear. Typically, patients are admitted to a psych ward against their will. Simply being locked in a room as a patient can be terrifying. Other causes of hospitalization PTSD include being put in restraints and being forced to take medicine. Less commonly reported, but also a serious cause of PTSD is physical abuse by staff.
Is It Normal to Feel Depressed After a Hospital Stay?
Hospital stays can exacerbate patients’ emotions and increase feelings of depression and anxiety disorder.
According to a study published in Jama Internal Medicine of 207 patients who stayed in the hospital for 30 days:
- 36% reported sleep disturbance
- 78% reported mobility disturbance
- 55% reported nutrition disturbance
- 23% reported mood disturbance
- 30% had high trauma exposure
Depression is typical to develop after hospitalization. Our therapists recommend cognitive behavioral therapy for most patients who have been discharged from the hospital or psychiatric facility and are experiencing symptoms of depression or low mood.
Embrace Healing The Power of Trust in Therapeutic Relationships
“In my experience, the most effective aspect of therapy is the therapeutic relationship. Establishing trust between a client and clinician is the first step to healing.”
What Is Post-hospital Syndrome?
Post-hospital syndrome, or PHS, is the decline in physical and mental well-being after being discharged from the hospital.
Symptoms of PHS include:
- Physical weakness
- Fatigue
- Confusion
- Cognitive impairment
- Emotional distress
These symptoms can lead to an increased risk of complications or readmission to the hospital. Therefore, it is important to utilize the support of family, friends, and a trained professional. PHS typically lasts a few weeks, and most individuals regain strength and recovery.
What to Do After Getting Out of a Mental Hospital?
After leaving the hospital, it is important to follow certain steps to ensure your physical and mental health.
Some important steps include:
- Remember to get adequate rest, eat healthy food, and get the appropriate amount of exercise for your medical condition.
- Connect with family, friends, support groups, and trained professionals for support in your recovery.
- Minimize stress and learn relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, journaling, and doing activities you enjoy.
- Stay in touch with your therapist. Make sure they know how you are feeling and any concerns you have.
These things will not necessarily prevent the development of PTSD, however, they will reduce the risk of negative mental health effects.
Does Therapy Help After Trauma From Psychiatric Hospitalization?
As with any type of trauma, a trained therapist specializing in trauma can help you:
- Have a safe and nonjudgemental space to share your feelings about your experience
- Process your trauma and make better sense of what you experienced during your hospitalization
- Develop coping skills to deal with this and other challenges in the future
- Rebuild trust in yourself, others, and the world
- Develop a deeper understanding of yourself
- Regain control of your life
Our top-rated therapists specialize in trauma therapy and can help you improve your mental well-being after trauma from hospitalization.
You don’t have to face the aftermath of psych ward trauma alone – we are here to support you every step of the way. Take control of your well-being and start your journey toward healing today. Reach out to us for a confidential session and discover the power of professional trauma therapy in rebuilding your life. Your transformation begins now.