<p>A dear friend who suffers from being bipolar is now suicidal. I have not heard from her in over 6 weeks and when I asked her H about her yesterday at church he gave me the update. She has checked herself into a local hospital (second time this month) so they can regulate her meds. He called me last night and asked that I visit her which I am happy to do. What is an appropriate token gift to bring? I would usually bring flowers or a magazine or chocolate. Any thoughts?</p>
<p>I think flowers, a magazine or chocolate would be a very nice.</p>
<p>I’d call the ward desk to check on any restrictions that they have on stuff in patients’ rooms.</p>
<p>That’s what I was most concerned with. I am not aware of the general protocol. Will call, though.</p>
<p>They take away your sharp objects, including mirrors, knives, and forks, and they serve you chicken with the bones removed. If they allow flowers, a glass vase is out.</p>
<p>Her husband may be able to tell you if there is something that she has mentioned she would like to have as well. Sometimes bath products are very welcome by hospital patients, because the stuff at the hospital is terrible. A really nice hand lotion is also good, since hospitals tend to be dry.</p>
<p>Call the unit and ask what can be brought in. When I visit people in the local psych units, nothing is allowed to be brought in accept for the patient’s clothing, and that is inspected. Personal care items like lotions are prohibited becase pills can be hidden in them, and some can be toxic if taken in large quantities.</p>
<p>Magazines or books would be good, as it can get very boring between sessions. Whenever I’ve gone in to visit people, boredeom has been the number one complaint.</p>
<p>What you can bring in may depend on what level of care she is under.</p>
<p>I have visited my cousin with a similar situation. Magazines were a hit—and candy–enough to share with a roommate if there is one!</p>
<p>Good luck, and thanks for visiting. People need support, even though it is awkward for us visitors. Usually you don’t stay long.</p>
<p>Thanks for all the input. I ran by Walgreens and grabbed a People magazine and a small tube of hand lotion. Both were much appreciated by my friend. She loved the magazine because it was completely mindless and required no concentration. She is hoping to be able to go home this week when they get her meds regulated. I appreciate all of your thoughtful replies.</p>
<p>I took magazines and a nice, cozy socks when I visited my neighbor.</p>
<p>We visited a friend in the Psych unit, we brought a game of checkers and a deck of cards to play. Also, magazines and a basket of fruit.</p>
<p>Bring a couple dozen donuts for the staff as well.</p>
<p>OP, you are good to visit. Hospital visits, psych ward visits, wake attendance…all can be uncomfortable…but I always tell myself that I would much prefer to be the incomfortable visitor than the visited.</p>