There were 2 separate visits to the hospital, one for 3 weeks and the second for 4 months. So, the second time around was easier as I knew the doctors and nurses. The care at the hospital from the doctors and nurses was exceptional. My psychiatrist was excellent – smart, compassionate and straightforward. And the nurses were truly wonderful. They really care about you as a person and are happy to listen to our thoughts and feelings. Psychiatric nurses are vital, specialized professionals who provide compassionate care for individuals with complex mental health conditions, often serving as a patient’s advocate during their darkest moments. They combine therapeutic skills with clinical knowledge to foster hope, manage crises, and break down stigma.
My doctor would see me daily and we went through the 5 charges that I had systematically. After hours and hours of conversation, he said that I would get a pass. That meant that his report to the judge would be that I not be held criminally responsible for my actions. And this is exactly what happened when I appeared in front of the judge.
The feeling of being in the psych ward was surreal. I was surrounded by people who had many different mental illnesses. Sadly, some of them had no hope for a future. Back to the nurses, the foundation of the ward. I had 3 nurses that made an impact on me. One was very sweet with a real desire to not only help, but listen to your concerns. One was tasked with giving me the good and bad news of the day. She was highly competent, a good listener, and told it like it was. One was kind and gentle, always with a smile on her face and not afraid to tell me a little bit about her life.
My time in the hospital taught me about the importance of empathy and compassion.
My Bipolar Journey 
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