Hospitalization for Mental Health
We are here to provide guidance and support, and to provide a treatment plan that will enable a student to return to the activities and pursuits that bring them joy.
What you can do when the unexpected happens
For Family & Friends
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out:
(213) 740-WELL (9355)
Finding out that someone you care about has been hospitalized for their mental health can be jarring news. You may feel shock, sadness, and a great deal of worry when you hear this news, and your reaction is very normal. The most important thing to remember about a mental health hospitalization is that the person you care for is safe, and they are receiving the best care possible.
In-Patient Care During The First 72 Hours In the first 24 hours, patients are admitted to a section of the facility with minimal amenities and a higher level of safety supervision. After this initial 24-hour period, patients move to a different section where there is more availability of independent activity and therapeutic sessions. Students generally feel more comfortable when this move takes place. After the first 24 hours, during the next 48 hours, patients may make outbound calls from common room areas.
After Hospitalization • Allow the person to share details in their own time, with who they want to share information with. • They may not be ready to have many others know about their situation, so handle any information you have discreetly. • When they are back, check-in (phone, text) to let them know you are there for them.
Here are some helpful things you should know: They will be without a mobile phone for the duration of their stay. Due to privacy concerns, mobile phones and all other devices with cameras (laptops, tablets) are not permitted in psychiatric facilities. If a patient is willing to have their case information discussed with you by their provider, they are required to sign a release of information form. There are separate forms for USC Counseling and Mental Health clinicians, and the in-patient facility.
Visitors And Comfort Items Visitors are permitted to drop off comfort items, including toiletries, blanket, change of clothes (no drawstrings or laces), and reading materials. Food and drinks are not permitted; no pens or pencils. Visitor policy might not allow in-person visits if COVID-19 or other health precautions are in place.
Discharge and Pick Up When a patient is discharged from care, they can arrange to have a friend or relative pick them up. Often, students may feel more comfortable being picked up by a peer, so arranging for a friend to pick them up (by car or rideshare) may be the smoothest transition.
• Love and encouragement always help. Let them know they can build back to a place where they feel confident, self-assured, and hopeful. • Empower them to weigh options and make choices. Being able to make even minor decisions can help build back a sense of control and empowerment. • For students who have course work that has been interrupted by their health matters, a leave of absence may be recommended. USC support services will provide guidance on next steps for this process. A similar process is in place to return to classes when a leave of absence is no longer required.