The first thing you need to do when you struggle with your mental health is seek medical treatment. However, although most individuals believe mental health treatment is about locked facilities with strict visiting hours, that is not the only treatment method available. There is an outpatient mental health treatment plan that provides a therapeutic and less restrictive environment. Below, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive overview of outpatient treatment for mental health.
So, What Outpatient Treatments Are Available for Mental Health?
Outpatient treatment involves non-residential treatment for patients suffering from mental health issues. In this treatment option, individuals do not need a prolonged stay in a healthcare facility; instead, they go home after treatment. The outpatient treatment option can involve short-term counseling or long-term care, including medication and therapy.
Therefore, the difference between inpatient vs. outpatient mental health treatment is that outpatient treatment does not involve overnight stays, while inpatient treatment involves overnight stays. The outpatient treatment option offers quality treatment similar to the inpatient option, but with more flexibility and freedom.
What Is Involved in Intensive Outpatient Treatment for Mental Health?
Intensive outpatient mental health treatment involves supportive and structured mental health care programs that help individuals manage their mental health issues while allowing them time to care for their outside responsibilities. The certified mental health professionals at Davis Behavioral Health establish outpatient treatment programs that engage patients in a network of care and support that ensures they live a balanced and meaningful life.
An intensive treatment program is ideal for individuals who do not require detoxification or 24/7 care. It is also the best plan for patients suffering from anxiety, depression and eating disorders. Note that the intensive outpatient treatment plan comprises several treatment options, including:
Individual therapy
With individual therapy, mental health patients work one-on-one with a certified mental health clinician in a confidential, caring and safe environment. The certified mental health professionals at Davis Behavioral Health reveal that there are several types of individual therapy suitable for different types of patients which include:
- Illness management recovery
- Child-centered play therapy
- Dialectical behavioral therapy
- Cognitive processing therapy
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
Group therapy
In group therapy, patients are allowed to build connections with other individuals facing similar mental health issues. Group therapy helps individuals to understand that they are not alone, which may help promote good mental health. It also helps in building a support network.
Psychiatric medication
The type of psychiatric medication offered often depends on the mental health issues that someone is suffering from. These medications may be provided to treat, prevent or reduce the symptoms of mental health issues. The most common psychiatric medications include lithium, sleeping pills, minor tranquilizers, antipsychotics and antidepressants. Note that some mental health outpatient treatment plans may require patients to combine psychiatric medication with psychotherapy.
What Is the Benefit of Outpatient Treatment for Mental Health?
Outpatient treatment programs allow individuals to manage their mental health while continuing their day-to-day responsibilities. An effective treatment plan can lead to a proper balance between mental health and daily life, as most clients continue to work or go to school while receiving outpatient therapy services. It also ensures that patients can integrate coping skills into their daily lives.
The bottom line
Outpatient treatment for mental health involves a non-residential treatment plan, where patients do not stay overnight at healthcare facilities. Although starting outpatient therapy can be stressful, it gives patients flexibility and freedom of treatment while managing their everyday lives.
