The problem is that one person that tells you they're just joking and actually goes out and commits suicide. Then it's on you, the healthcare professional. Lawyers would ruin you in court.

I've been in and out of various psychiatric facilities, including that very same facility in Arlington, and it seems like a lot of the policies & procedures are to cover themselves legally.

Oh, I've been there as a Paramedic, not as a patient. Almost forgot that bit. We typically bring people in the front door. Even voluntary admissions. The one thing that struck me as odd is that Millwood always has someone (a LCSW or something) come out and talk to patients there in the lobby some before having them sign any of the admission paperwork. They don't lock you in a room and then have you sign.