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My Wellness Journey from Hospitalization

In this blog article I reflect on my last hospitalization that took place a couple of years ago. I share my process of recuperation. Provide insight on strategies to maintain support and guidance with caregiver and the treatment team. Give tips for you and your loved ones on how to manage the recovery process after hospitalization.


Schizophrenia's Mind Wars

Early warning signs my mental health is spiraling out of control begins with poor sleeping patterns. Specifically, not sleeping enough. Excessive energy to pull all-nighters. Followed by delusions and a range of false beliefs.

    Mine starts with obsessive thoughts and hyper-religious ideas. Frequently, I'm a victim of situations. Recurring ideas of being spied on and followed. My train of thought runs rampant and uproots hallucinations.


Going into the Hospital

My last hospitalization was in 2022. Initially, I was ordered by my doctor into an in-patient facility. However, released within 72 hours despite my symptoms that I discussed earlier. With the aggressive support of my family and friends I eventually gave in and followed my doctor's recommendations to go in-patient hospitalization again.

    While I never stopped taking my medication it's important to recognize that schizophrenia is a brain disease. Stress worsens the condition that can overhaul the effectiveness of medication. My symptoms went downhill before I was stabilized. My hospital stay lasted about a month.


Out-of-State Caregiver

Recuperating took a few months. I was out of work for six months. Still, recovering from the brain's trauma I went back to work prematurely and slowly.

    My family is out-of-state. My step-father is my caregiver. Ongoing consistent communication between me, my caregiver, and doctor were required. My step-father would share updates with our family to limit confusion and repeating information. 

    Therefore, share your medical records and provide consent for your caregiver to communicate with the doctor follow the process of recovery with you.


Care for My Child While Hospitalized

My health dilemma created a strain on my family. Fortunately, my son who was in elementary school stayed with a friend of mine. This crisis occurred at the end of his school year. Fortunately, he was out of school for the summer so this incident didn't interfere with his schooling and attendance.

    In the hospital, I missed his fifth grade graduation. I missed being able to care for him daily. I spoke with him by phone but all that is a blur now because of my poor state of mind at the time.


On the Path to Wellness

My treatment looked like seeing the doctor weekly while hospitalized. Afterwards, I partook in intensive therapy when I returned home.

    At home I focused on my recuperation. I reprogrammed myself to follow a strict wellness routine. I took long walks daily. Rested a lot and made sure I managed my medication regimen.

    If you or your loved one is going through an ordeal recovery will be challenging and require a lot from family and your tight-knit support network. The process of recuperating may be for an extended period of time.


Tips on Recovering

Based on experience I highly recommend you follow your doctor's orders. Focus on your self-care rituals and coping skills. 

    Engage in a project to keep you going. Maintain your support system with regular check-ins or whatever keeps you connected on a social level. 

    Never give up. Believe better days are ahead. Follow these tips to wellness. Practice your self-care routine and medication management.

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