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A Difficult Experience: Julia's Stay in a Mental Hospital |
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As human beings, we encounter various experiences every day, some of which are
pleasant while others are not. These experiences can range from the everyday to
the exceptional, and sometimes they can be periods of self-doubt and depression
that we go through. I once knew a girl named Julia, who experienced a nervous
breakdown a couple of years ago. Her family eventually had to send her to a
mental hospital because of her erratic behavior, which included talking to thin
air and having fits of hallucinations that caused her to claw at her face and
hair.
During her stay at the hospital, Julia's life was regular and methodical, with
everything aimed at building the patients' sense of purpose. She had a daily
routine that started with a shower, morning exercises, and a simple breakfast.
Patients were given their medication, while doctors examined them on their
rounds. Afterwards, the patients would clean up the ward and corridors before
having a one-on-one session with the resident psychiatrist.
Julia would spend time in the Occupational Therapy hall, threading
pastel-colored glass beads together to make wall hangings. These hangings were
later sold to raise funds, and patients would also help to wash the crockery and
cutlery after every meal. There were group singing sessions after dinner, which
was her favorite time of the day because it most resembled her life outside the
hospital.
Although the nurses and attendants were kind and friendly, Julia often lay awake
long into the night. Being in the hospital was a constant reminder that she was
what others labeled "crazy". After three weeks, Julia was discharged, but she
was not completely cured and was advised to be on medication as long as
necessary. She resented the whole affair and was very embarrassed about it,
unable to face any of her friends after that.
Julia's experience in the mental hospital was undoubtedly difficult, but it
taught her the importance of taking care of her mental health. It also showed
her that mental illness is a real and serious issue that should not be
stigmatized. Anyone can go through a difficult time, and seeking help is a sign
of strength, not weakness. |
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