You can find plenty of articles and posts about what to pack in a hospital bag if you're expecting a baby. But a bag for psychiatric hospitalization is just as important. Having belongings you've chosen is a great comfort in a behavioral health ward.
Remember that at first, you won't have your belongings. A hospitalization begins in the ER. The psych ER is locked down, and patients don't get to keep anything. If you think of it, leave your jewelry at home. You'll get a hospital gown. You won't even keep your underwear. But the staff will store your bag and bring it to the ward when you transfer. The psych ER is a real bummer, but the last time I went, I wasn't even there for 24 hours.
Buy or set aside items for your bag. Assume that you won't have the chance to pack anything before you leave for the hospital. Have everything ready. After I was diagnosed, I went to Target and bought everything for my bag. Everything in your bag should be extras.
Pack in threes. In my experience, a psych ward will allow you to have three changes of clothes, so don't bother bringing more than that. You'll be able to do laundry if you need to.
Don't bring toiletries or cosmetics. You probably won't be allowed to have them. The staff will provide you with a toothbrush, toothpaste, a comb, shampoo, body wash, deodorant, and lotion.
What to Pack
1. Underwear (3). Choose comfortable extra underwear for your bag. If you need a bra, pack two or three sports bras. Underwires and other hardware usually aren't allowed.
2. Pants (3). A lot of psych wards won't allow drawstrings or zippers. I bought three pairs of identical black leggings.
3. Tops (3). Go for soft, short-sleeved T-shirts (in case the ward is hot). Choose colors you like.
4. Cardigan (1). Remember to avoid jackets with zippers or drawstrings. An open cardigan is best. That will keep you comfortable if the ward is cold.
5. Socks (3). They just need to be comfortable and extra.
6. Shoes (1). Most wards won't allow shoelaces, so buy an inexpensive pair of slip-on sneakers.
7. Slippers (1). You may prefer to shuffle around in slippers. I bought pink ones with polka dots to cheer me up.
8. Pads or period underwear. If you menstruate, bring what you need. Remember that health changes can alter cycles, so be prepared. Tampons may not be allowed. Having the pads you prefer will be so much better than using the bulky hospital pads. The staff will probably give you several pads at a time and keep the rest locked up, so you can just ask when you need more.
9. Journal or notebook. Avoid spirals. Even if you don't usually like to write, it can be quite soothing at the hospital.
10. Crayons. These are likely the only writing utensil you'll be able to use without supervision. Make sure they're new and sharpened, but don't bring a set with a sharpener.
11. Paperback book. Hardcovers are usually not allowed. I pack two large paperbacks that I've already read and liked. This way, the books are comforting instead of unsettling.
If you have an unusual prescription medication, you may want to bring it with you in case the hospital pharmacy doesn't have it. This happened to me with Seasonale birth control.
Some wards will allow you to have other items such as blankets or pillows from home, but wait and ask when you get there. Your visitor can bring these to you if they're allowed.
Pack your bag now. I thought I'd never use mine, but I've used it twice. It will give you peace of mind.
