• Threaten or try to take their lives or hurt themselves or others
• See or hear things (hallucinations)
• Believe things that aren’t true (delusions)
• Need special treatments such as electroconvulsive therapy
• Have problems with alcohol or substances
• Have not eaten or slept for several days
• Are unable to care for themselves or their families, e.g., getting out of bed, bathing, dressing
• Have tried treatment with therapy, medication and support and still have a lot of trouble with symptoms
• Need to make a significant switch in treatment or medication under the close supervision of their doctor
• Have any symptom of mania or depression that significantly interferes with life

Voluntary hospitalization takes place when a person willingly signs forms agreeing to be treated in the hospital. A person who signs in voluntarily may also ask to leave. This request should be made in writing. The hospital must release people who make requests within a period of time (two to seven days, depending on state laws), unless they are a danger to themselves or others.

Most psychiatric hospital stays are from five to ten days. There are also longer residential rehabilitation programs for alcohol or substance abuse, eating disorders or other issues that require long-term treatment.

Involuntary hospitalization is a last resort when someone’s symptoms have become so severe that they will not listen to others or accept help. You may need to involve your loved one’s doctor, the police or lawyers.

Involuntary hospitalization is an option of last resort only. It is better to talk with your loved one before a crisis and determine the best treatment options together. Work with your loved one in advance to write down ways to cope and what to do if symptoms become severe. Having a plan can ease the stress on you and your loved one, and ensure that the appropriate care is given.

• Explain that the person is not going to an institution, asylum or prison. Hospitalization is treatment, not punishment.
• Reassure your loved one that the hospital is a safe place where a person can begin to get well. No one outside the family needs to be told about the hospitalization.
• Tell your loved one that getting help does not mean someone has failed. A mood disorder is an illness that needs treatment, like diabetes or heart disease. Hospitalization is nothing to be ashamed of.
• Call the hospital and find out more about admission, treatment and policies.
• Help your loved one pack comfortable clothing and safe items that are reminders of home.
• Offer the person a chance to make choices (such as what to take to the hospital, or who to go with), if this is desired.