Fear of the unknown makes it difficult to seek help for anxiety, depression and other mental health issues, especially with the negative way social media, television and movies portray mental health facilities. This representation furthers the stigma surrounding mental health hospitals and could not be further from the truth.

Mental health hospitals are here to help you or your loved one recover and learn the tools and skills necessary to live happier, healthier lives. Do not let common myths and negative messaging keep you or your loved one from getting help.

What Can I Expect During a Hospital Stay?

Much has changed over the years in how we approach mental health. Each day is filled with activities that are engaging and promote wellness from within. Counselors and supporting team members are there for you, to help you meet the goals you set with your team of professionals every day. At Wyoming Behavioral Institute, we offer yoga, art and music therapy, and groups led by nurses, physicians, licensed clinical social workers and therapists, and occupational therapy assistants.

You will have to give up some creature comforts when going into a mental health facility, but do not worry — this is with your recovery in mind. For example, cell phones are often not allowed inside the treatment areas. This is to ensure the confidentiality of all patients and to help you concentrate on yourself and your wellness. You are there to receive treatment, and a cell phone can be a major distraction.

There is, of course, a phone available to contact loved ones throughout your stay. Wyoming Behavioral Institute, we want you to stay connected to your loved ones throughout your recovery journey. Hospitalizations are often brief – just a few days long – causing only minimal interruptions in home and work routines.

Mental Health Hospitals Put Safety First

Mental health facilities are designed to keep patients safe so they may seem restrictive, not allowing patients to keep their shoelaces, belts and other clothing items. You or your loved one deserves to receive treatment in a safe environment, and sometimes that means sacrificing a little bit of comfort.

We have made sure there are indoor and outdoor spaces at Wyoming Behavioral Institute that are comfortable and relaxing. Our art therapist has painted murals throughout our hospital depicting outdoor scenes that reduce the institutional feel of our halls. We offer meals in our cafeteria three times daily that are cooked on site. Menus are monitored by a dietitian and are updated in response to patient and staff feedback.

Mental Health Treatment Is for Everyone

Another myth about mental health hospitals is that the people receiving care are mindless or like zombies. How many movies or television shows have everyone but the main character in a state of mindless obedience? This could not be further from the truth! Part of recovery is remaining yourself and finding the best parts of you.

All types of people receive mental health treatment. The people receiving care at our hospital are going through real life issues and are taking a big step by reaching out for help. Peer support is part of the recovery process.

Get Started Today

Psychiatric stays are not necessary for everyone but have been shown to be important for people who need specialized help. The goal is to leave our hospital with a new outlook on life and the ability to function safely.

After treatment, remaining in therapeutic outpatient care has been found to lead to more positive outcomes. Thankfully, Wyoming Behavioral Institute offers outpatient teletherapy for youth and is making outpatient care for all ages a priority as new programs are added.

Mental health care should put you first, and we get that. Wyoming Behavioral Institute offers acute care for children, adolescents and adults, and residential care for adolescents. Outpatient teletherapy also is available for adolescents. Call us today to schedule a no-cost, confidential appointment at 800-457-9312 or contact us online.