checking yourself into a mental institution - classic or dud?

Treatment is always preferable to further suffering. About three years ago I was checked into one for state mandated reasons (rhymes with 'attempted bluicide'). It was neccessary, interesting, tedious, memorable. It felt alot like sitting in a hospital waiting room for three weeks, only, you know, surrounded by crazy people. It depends on what type of institution you check into - my friend was institutionalized by his family for attempting suicide around the same time (Come to Athens! It's HAPPYTOWN!), a private institution - he spoke to therapist several times daily, group therapy, plus medication, healthy fruitful enviroment etc. I was in the state-funded hospital (just outside Augusta - I was there during the Masters); I spoke to a doctor for about three minutes and they loaded me with anti-depressants for the rest of my term. It was interesting - you'll have stories to tell at the very least - and helpful, I guess. Better than nothing!

bring a book

also, they're not going to let you have any caffeine

Unless you have someone on the outside who is willing to keep tabs on your progress and plead your case, it's quite risky to check yourself in. Explore out-patient options first!

but remember sick is sick, if you need help, dont be afraid to get it.,

kate makes a good point - once you're institutionalized you freedom is at least partially out the window.

Not only are your freedoms very much suspended on the inside, but many institutions are quite happy to just put you in a chemical straitjacket and just leave you. Inpatient treatment should only be a last resort after all other options have been explored.