Advocating Whilst in Hospital

Whilst in hospital for the second time, I amused myself by advocating on my behalf. Often, when in hospital, we may feel like we have lost our sense of self and agency. It's the very nature of hospital, which is a little like a mini prison, that you can feel like your rights as a human being are gradually being eroded. To combat this, I recommend advocating on your behalf. This levels the playing field somewhat and encourages everyone you interact with to do the best job possible whilst around you. You will hear people express themselves by saying things like 'I don't want to lose my job!' This will seem like you are doing something wrong, but I stood fast in the face of this, and it made positive change in the unit whilst I was there. This is what we are looking for, positive change. I started by buying a notebook and making a note of the name of each person who I believed to have broken a rule or mistreated me in some way. By the end of the stay, the notes were extensive, and everyone was involved. You can either keep this or take it to PALS; it depends on how far you wish to take things. What I noticed from this exercise was that patterns appeared, like male nurses coming to your room alone, late at night, to administer medication. I put a stop to this straight away. Next, you can apply for a tribunal, which may release you from hospital earlier. Also, you can go to PALS with any important discoveries. Make sure you get an IMHA (Independent Mental Health Advocate) to help you. It's also possible to complain about your stay to the CQC (Care Quality Commission). You can also verbally correct any misdemeanors made by staff. I corrected people for calling me 'lovie' or 'lovely.' I have a name and expect to be called by it. All of this will empower you whilst being in hospital. It will feel a little like you are being a pain at first, but please consider the positive impact you are having by voicing your grievances. It will make a world of difference to mental health provision, and only we can do it.