I didn't put myself there, but I stayed voluntarily. I think the experience will be what you make it. Is there a reason you're waiting? If you have any doubts about your safety, go as soon as possible. Good luck!

I checked in voluntarily, but with heavy prompting from my GP at the time. I did not do well in the environment because I wasn’t getting my needs met, so a majority of my time was spent working on getting out. That being said, I knew my needs and I wasn’t in immediate danger. If you feel that you would be safer checking in, you should definitely go for it. Be honest about what’s going on, and the staff should be able to help you and sort out care for afterward. Best of luck to you, friend, I hope that you are able to get the support you need.

I personally have never been to one. I’ve thought about it, just could never decide

Yes - I’ve been in residential settings and hospital settings that I’ve put myself into.

I've been about 3 or 4 times now, but all but once I was in the adolescent ward though which is definitely different from an adult ward.

honestly a little nerve wracking. This could have to do with the fact that I was only 18 when I checked myself in. There's people there of all different ages and mental health issues. I have personally not had any issues with staff, they tend to be very helpful and caring. You almost always find someone you can relate to or at least talk with in group therapy and whatnot. I want to be honest, not to scare you but I did have one really bad experience. There was someone suffering from extreme delusions who told me he "knew" that I was working with his father and the hospital staff to poison him, and he kept trying to talk to me angrily. The staff helped and it ended up fine. I don't blame him of course, but that kind of stuff can happen and as someone with anxiety it really affected and upset me. Sorry for the word vomit, but if you have any more specific questions let me know! Ultimately I'm so glad I went. Every time I learned new things and coping skills that have truly helped me. And it saved my life multiple times.