How to get help

Hi @Cuchilove and welcome to the forums

I'm glad that you've found this space and have reached out, as I know that there are many members on here who can offer you some first-hand guidance with this.

I'm sorry to hear that you're having such a difficult time getting the support you need. Can I ask which state you're in, as the services available can vary a little between each state.

NSW

It seems bizarre to not accept those who are suicidal to a hospital @Cuchilove which is not to doubt your experience at all, more to express frustration at the system. I wonder if anyone here on the forums has had recent experience with an in-patient stay in NSW and could lend some guidance?

In the meantime do you have any other supports @Cuchilove? It might be useful to call the SANE helpline on 1800 187 263 (10am-8pm) who can talk about resources and supports near you

Shock horror… but there’s absolutely no evidence that admitting people to hospital prevents suicide (they’re more likely to do it after they leave) and the reluctance to admit patients for suicide is based on the fact that it doesn’t save lives and we aren’t providing any treatment (that you couldn’t get in the community - and some community treatment, like therapy, you don’t get in hospital).

Suicidality is usually about personality factors and life stressors and less commonly depression… hospital is something that patients want, but the reality is the most that’s usually offered is a 48hr crisis admission, to give you some time out to settle down the acute stress and emotion, to help you feel better and manage your distress, but the reality is it doesn’t “prevent” suicide. And given the state of the NSW health system atm, you’re unlikely to get an admission that is just to help you feel better but doesn’t do anything that couldn’t be done in the community - when there’s psychotic patients who need to be in hospital also out there.

Alt2Su groups are my recommendation. I think we’ve done the community a disservice by telling people if you’re suicidal go to ED and giving the impression that hospital is the answer. Some communities have alternative to ED programs - they’re really for people who don’t need to be in ED - like most suicidal people. There’s one in my city, but I’m not in NSW.

Feeling at the end of your tether is a desperate place to be, but 98-99% of people who feel suicidal don’t die that way, so really, there’s a lot of hope! I’m not denying the reality of suicide - my best friend died by suicide. But unless you have private health insurance and a private psychiatrist, you’re unlikely to get much of an admission. Suicidality is often a longer term problem and requires longer term support, in the community. I agree, that support isn’t there, but hospital isn’t the place to go looking for it. (I’m assuming you’ve been there done that with a mental health care plan?)

This too, shall pass.