things I never thought I'd say...

[the_irreverend]

This evening I drove my love to the hospital to be admitted for inpatient psychiatric care. Bobby and Shug (his cat) are staying with me until he is discharged. We have no idea how long he may be in -- it could be as little as a few days or maybe a week or two

Comments

[kevynjacobs]

Oh Kathryn, this has me upset. I've been inpatient, and know what it's like... but for the loved ones outside, it's so hard... is there anything I can do for you and Mac?

[the_irreverend]

Keep responding, just as you are. Tell us it will do some good. We're both wondering (and skeptical) whether even inpatient treatment can make a difference.

Actually, I do have hope - faith, really - that healing is possible and is in progress right now. Mac can't imagine that lasting relief is possible, much less believe he can find it and be worthy of it.

Thank you for your notes. With each one I can feel your huge hug enveloping me, and that's a tremendous comfort.

[kevynjacobs]

I can only speak for myself: Being inpatient has helped me each time it has happened. For one thing, it takes you out of your environment, and Mac rarely leaves his little world. Think of it as a "vacation from his life." Every time I've been inpatient, I've come out stronger. He can learn some coping tools there for living with a chronic mental illness.

Also, as I've indicated before, I think Mac's not on the right balance of meds. He's had one psych med piled on top of the next by his doctors, and I think they're affecting each other in unexpected ways. I think they should use this opportunity to wipe the slate clean, and under close supervision, start over with no meds -- then add one at a time to see what happens.

Finally, if they offer art therapy, encourage him to take it. I always found it helped me to just let loose with the creativity as a way to cope with the pain.

Please keep me posted... I'd visit him if I could, but I have no way to get down there right now.

*hugs*

hagrid

[mahariel]

We'll be thinking of you both.