TW Suicide - imminent discharge how to prepare

[Somethinggenericandforgettable]

One of my family who I live with was hospitalised because of suicide attempts. Those and extremely high anxiety are symptoms of severe recurrent depression. The hospitalisation is a new thing for us despite the history. How do we prepare the house, ourselves & them for discharge? We've cleared away as many ligatures as we can, also blades, medicines, cable ties, some cleaning products, solvents and lighter fuel/matches. Some of that might seem extreme but various reputable sites have recommended that. We are going to help them to create structure. Hospital will make referrals to community MH and CPN. Car keys and house keys will be put somewhere safe at night.

I've got us all (trying to) work on our own wellbeing.

We're waiting to see how long psychological services will take. We will try to bridge the gap by paying ourselves.

What else is there to be done?

Forgot to say I am going to bed, badly need to sleep. Will read replies during my breaks tomorrow and thank you!

Distraction packs!

Do they enjoy colouring, puzzles, jigsaws, hobbies,crafts

I have these to hand to distract from thoughts of self harm and they are well received

Thank you. Am looking out old keyboard and we've lots of art supplies. Maybe I could talk them into learning to bake fresh bread... (sorry, dark humour, had an incident tonight, need the humour)

Bump for the afternoon crowd

Have a look at crisis kits, for distraction
Ideas here:
https://www.getselfhelp.co.uk/emergency-or-soothe-box-first-aid-for-distress/

I havent read that, but some ideas are:

• Crossword, colouring, suduko, crossword books, pens/pencils
• fidget toys, kaleidoscope, bluetack, playdoh,
• bananagrams, boggle type games
• hot chocolate sachets, favourite sweets, herbal teas, strong tasting sweets
• hand lotion, lip balm, face mask type stuff, bubble bath
• photo albums, inspirational quotes, memories of good times,
• music, headphones,
• Notebook/journal

Locked safe for medication - as this is one of the biggest risks.

Ultimately, if they are coming home from hospital, they should be well enough not to have to hide the knives/sharp objects.

This is an excellent website, with self help for managing mental health:
https://www.getselfhelp.co.uk/

@DimLlaeth psychiatrist has said they'll have the ideation etc until they are well underway with psychological services and the hospital doesn't offer psychology sessions. I find that surprising, illogical and disappointing but hospital has said it's discharge time

Are they an adult or a child?

I would look at planning the days, so that they are occupied during the day, and have things to look forward to.

Have a look what is available in the local area if they are not at work - mental health groups, men's group/shed and try to keep them busy and active.

And don't forget to look after yourself in this. As you need to care for yourself too. I