It can be difficult to know when your mental health issues have reached the point where inpatient treatment may be necessary.
Inpatient mental health care is a significant step, but for some people struggling, it can be a vital part of recovery.
As part of our behavioral health resources at World.edu, I’m here to provide some guidance on recognizing the signs that inpatient treatment may be needed, and what that process typically entails.
What is Inpatient Mental Health Treatment?
Inpatient mental health treatment refers to 24-hour care and support provided in a hospital or residential facility. Patients stay overnight in the inpatient facilities, with access to comprehensive mental health services including individual and group therapy, medication management, and around-the-clock medical supervision.
Inpatient care is designed for individuals experiencing an acute mental health crisis or severe, debilitating symptoms that cannot be adequately treated in an outpatient setting.
The structured, immersive environment of an inpatient program provides the safest and most intensive level of care for those with severe mental health disorders.
Definition and Purpose of Inpatient Mental Health Treatment
Inpatient mental health treatment is a specialized form of mental health care where individuals stay in a hospital or treatment facility to receive intensive therapy and support. The primary purpose of inpatient mental health treatment is to provide a safe and structured environment for those experiencing severe mental health symptoms or a mental health crisis.
This type of treatment is crucial for individuals who are at risk of harming themselves or others, or who need immediate, comprehensive care to stabilize their condition.
Inpatient mental health treatment serves as a critical component in the continuum of care, often working in conjunction with outpatient therapy and other mental health services. It is designed to offer the necessary support and resources to help individuals manage their mental health symptoms effectively and improve their overall well-being.
This type of treatment can be beneficial for a range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and psychosis.
3 Signs You May Need Inpatient Treatment
It’s not always easy to determine when outpatient treatment is no longer sufficient, especially during mental health crises. Here are some key signs that inpatient mental health treatment may be necessary:
1 – Suicidal Thoughts or Behaviors
If you are experiencing severe mental illness, such as having thoughts of suicide or having made a suicide attempt, inpatient care can provide the highest level of supervision and support to keep you safe.
Inpatient treatment ensures you have 24/7 access to mental health professionals who can intervene quickly during a crisis.
2 – Psychosis or Hallucinations
Experiencing psychotic symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, or disconnection from reality indicates a need for more intensive treatment. Inpatient programs can stabilize these symptoms and work to identify and treat the underlying condition.
3 – Severe Depression or Anxiety
When depression or anxiety becomes so debilitating that you are unable to function in your daily life, an inpatient program may be warranted. Intensive therapy, medication management, and a structured environment can provide the comprehensive support needed.
Inability to Care for Yourself
If you find yourself completely unable to take care of your basic needs like eating, bathing, or keeping yourself safe, inpatient treatment ensures these fundamental self-care tasks are addressed as part of your recovery.
Substance Abuse and Co-Occurring Disorders
Mental illness can complicate the treatment of individuals struggling with both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder.
The 24/7 supervision and access to addiction treatment services in an inpatient setting can be crucial for stabilization and long-term recovery.
What to Expect in Inpatient Treatment
The specific services and structure of an inpatient mental health facility can vary, but there are some common elements you can expect:
Comprehensive Evaluation
Upon admission, you will undergo a thorough assessment by a multidisciplinary team including psychiatrists, psychologists, nurses, and social workers. This evaluation helps determine the appropriate level of treatment and care and develop an individualized plan for each client.
Medication Management
Inpatient treatment includes regular meetings with a psychiatrist who can prescribe and monitor any necessary psychiatric medications as part of your recovery plan.
Individual and Group Therapy
You will participate in both one-on-one therapy sessions as well as group therapy activities. These evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy, help address the root causes of your mental health struggles.
24/7 Support and Supervision
Inpatient programs provide a structured, safe environment with trained staff available around the clock to respond to any urgent needs or crises that may arise.
Discharge Planning
Throughout your stay, the treatment team will work with you to develop a comprehensive discharge plan. This ensures a smooth transition back into your daily life with appropriate outpatient follow-up care and community support resources.
Seeking Inpatient Treatment
If you or a loved one are experiencing a mental health crisis and believe inpatient treatment may be necessary, the first step is to reach out to your existing mental health provider or local hospital. They can conduct an assessment and provide guidance on the next appropriate level of care.
It’s also important to check your health insurance coverage, as most plans do provide some level of benefits for inpatient psychiatric treatment. The treatment team and hospital admissions staff can help navigate the insurance process.
Remember, seeking inpatient care is a sign of strength, not weakness. Taking this important step can be instrumental in stabilizing your mental health and putting you on the path to long-term recovery. You deserve to get the comprehensive support you need.
When to Seek Emergency Help
Recognizing when to seek emergency help for a mental health crisis is vital. A mental health crisis is a situation where an individual is at immediate risk of harming themselves or others or is experiencing severe mental health symptoms that require urgent attention.
Common signs that someone may be in a mental health crisis include:
- Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
- Psychotic episodes, such as hallucinations or delusions
- Self-neglect or self-destructive behaviors
- Aggressive or violent behavior
- Severe anxiety or depression
If you or a loved one is exhibiting any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek emergency help immediately. You can call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room for immediate assistance. Prompt intervention can be life-saving and provide the necessary support to manage the crisis effectively.
Choosing the Right Inpatient Facility
Selecting the right inpatient facility is a critical step in ensuring effective mental health treatment. When choosing an inpatient facility, consider the following factors:
- Reputation and Accreditation: Look for facilities with a strong reputation and proper accreditation, which ensures they meet high standards of care.
- Staff Qualifications and Experience: Ensure the facility has qualified and experienced staff, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and nurses.
- Therapies and Treatments Offered: Check the types of therapies and treatments available to ensure they align with the individual’s needs.
- Policies and Procedures: Understand the facility’s policies and procedures, including how they handle emergencies and patient safety.
- Level of Care Provided: Make sure the facility offers the appropriate level of care required for the individual’s specific mental health condition.
It’s also important to consider the individual’s unique needs and circumstances. For instance, someone experiencing a mental health crisis may need a facility that provides immediate emergency services and crisis intervention.
Doing thorough research and carefully evaluating your options will help you choose the right inpatient facility that can provide the best possible care for your mental health needs.
