I need to talk to someone

[Anonymous]

I just got out of the psychiatric ward and am having trouble adjusting. I feel like I need to talk to someone, but I’m afraid that if I text 988, they’ll stick me back in the hospital.

Any suggestions or options for me?

[Anonymous]

It's good that you posted here. Lots of people who will be happy to chat back and forth. Do you have an outpatient therapist?

[Anonymous]

988 won't stick you back in if you don't want to. You don't have to tell them who you are, they'll just talk! Please do it!

[Anonymous]

I’ll talk to you. Sounds like you are having a hard time adjusting. You must be scared. That’s normal for any life transition, especially one like this. When is your next doctor’s appointment?

[Anonymous]

Text 988. No they won’t automatically send you back. they will do triage up front. So know that but they can be very helpful OP

[Anonymous]

I think it’s ok to call but also many are here if you need to unload, destress, get some advice. Good for you for reaching out!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I’ll talk to you. Sounds like you are having a hard time adjusting. You must be scared. That’s normal for any life transition, especially one like this. When is your next doctor’s appointment?

Thank you!

I am scared, yes. I’m going to court Wednesday to have my 2nd amendment revoked, and I’ve never been to court before. I also just feel like my life is one big mess.

[Anonymous]

Another person willing to talk. Are you safe right now? Are you home alone? It is definitely a big transition and if it is your first night home, being overwhelmed isn’t surprising at all.

If it helps, keep talking here.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I’ll talk to you. Sounds like you are having a hard time adjusting. You must be scared. That’s normal for any life transition, especially one like this. When is your next doctor’s appointment?

Thank you!

I am scared, yes. I’m going to court Wednesday to have my 2nd amendment revoked, and I’ve never been to court before. I also just feel like my life is one big mess.

The good news is that nothing is permanent, even if it feels like it is. Obviously, everything that's happening to you right now feels overwhelming, but it will pass. I promise.

[Anonymous]

I’m sorry Op. I said a prayer for you.

[Anonymous]

Thank w! Yes, I’m safe.

My meds have made me a little tired, so I might go to sleep soon.

[Anonymous]

op - in addition to a human there is an app called PI that performs as an AI therapist of sorts. It can be really helpful.

[Anonymous]

OP, I’m a psychiatrist who often has to attend legal hearings. The hearings are typically really short and you likely won’t have to say very much. And although I’m sure it feels shameful in the moment, know that many, many people go through this.

You just went through a really rough time and are still in a rough place, but keep going. Even if it feels impossible you will get to the other side. Continue to reach out if you need any support.

[Anonymous]

OP you’re brave for reaching out! I bet it feels weird and scary tonight. I’m sorry that you’re feeling like everything is a mess- I’ve been there too. Going to sleep sounds good. Sleep is a welcome haven and it will help your mind and body heal.

[Anonymous]

Hi OP, I used to volunteer at an org that did crisis line texting (it was local and not in DC area). We had VERY VERY strict rules about sending in a crisis team/911 when talking to someone. It does more harm than good to make people afraid of reaching out because they don't want to wind up back in the hospital.

I'm sure there are similar resources.

My best friend who struggles with mental health issues has found a lot of solace in Reddit. I can find out which forums she frequents, but they are pretty heavily moderated to ensure that trolls don't get to those who are struggling. For her, it helps to talk to people who have been through what she has. I'm sure if you post in one of them about going to court on Wednesday, you'll get comments from people who have also done it.