Psychiatric hospitalization is an inpatient stay at a hospital or specialized facility for evaluation and treatment of mental health conditions such as severe depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, suicidal ideation, or substance-related crises. Stays may be voluntary or involuntary and can range from short crisis stabilization to longer treatment programs. Records typically document diagnosis, medications, response to treatment, and recommended follow-up. For life insurance underwriting, a history of psychiatric hospitalization raises concerns about mortality and, especially, suicide risk, so underwriters look closely at recency, severity, and ongoing care. Many carriers require waiting periods after significant hospitalizations before offering coverage.

When underwriting reveals prior psychiatric hospitalization, carriers request detailed records and attending physician statements. Underwriters assess whether the episode was isolated, related to a situational crisis, or part of a chronic, recurrent condition. Factors such as compliance with treatment, stability of mood over time, absence of recent suicidal thoughts, and lack of substance abuse weigh heavily in decisions. Advisors working with clients who have these histories should set expectations for possible ratings, postponements, or restrictions such as suicide clauses. Providing complete, candid information up front can improve outcomes and reduce the need for repeated clarifications during underwriting.