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How can I convince my loved one to check in voluntarily? - Talk with your loved one about the behaviors you have seen that indicate to you that the hospital may be a better place for them right now.
- Explain that hospitalization is intended to create a safe place to allow severe symptoms to pass and medication to be adjusted and stabilized. It is not punishment and it is nothing to be ashamed of.
- 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 choices, such as going to the hospital with you or with another loved one.
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