More than half of all adults struggling with mental health challenges do not seek the treatment they need. One of the main reasons for this is the common misconception that the only form of treatment is full-time rehabilitation, which isn’t the best or most practical option for everyone.
Some worry that an extended stay at a residential treatment center might result in losing their jobs, damaging relationships with loved ones or disrupting their lives in too many other ways. Additionally, the cost of rehabilitation can be staggering (depending on the facility), and even those who might be able to afford the program might not want to pay such a steep price.
The good news? Full-time residential treatment programs are no longer the only way to receive the psychiatric services and care you need. One of the fastest-growing alternative treatments is a partial hospitalization program.
In this article, we’re going to take a closer look at the continuum of care process in light of a partial hospitalization program, as well as what the next step in recovery is after that.
What is a partial hospitalization program?
A partial hospitalization program (PHP) is a structured mental health treatment program for people who are experiencing a dual diagnosis (mental health condition as well as substance abuse), as well as those who fall in the middle of needing 24/7 care and outpatient care.
PHP is also commonly referred to as a day program because patients attend the program for several hours a day and then return home in the evening.
The exact length of stay in the program depends on your situation and continues to be regularly assessed by your clinician so that you are always receiving the best level of care.
What happens after PHP?
Depending on the individual’s needs and treatment goals, PHP can serve as either a step-down or a step-up treatment program. What this means is after completing a partial hospitalization program, the next step in recovery can potentially be an intensive outpatient program, traditional outpatient therapy or inpatient care.
Those who are steadily recovering and requiring less treatment (but still frequent and consistent treatment), can “step down” to an intensive outpatient program (IOP). These programs are similar to PHPs, but patients attend their different treatments and sessions for fewer hours each week.
Traditional outpatient therapy is less intensive than PHP or IOP and is best suited for individuals who are effectively recovering, have a strong support system and are developing the ability to manage their symptoms on their own. Outpatient therapy involves regularly meeting with a therapist or counselor to learn life skills in recovery and maintain mental health care.
Sometimes patients need a more intense level of treatment than PHP, in which case they may need to transition back to inpatient care. If symptoms worsen, or if the patient has ongoing difficulties managing their symptoms on their own, inpatient care might be a good option.
Start your next step in recovery today
Silver Ridge Recovery is a premier rehabilitation center that specializes in providing comprehensive, holistic care to those struggling with drug or alcohol use disorders.
We’ve spent years developing this center to be a place for midlife adults to find peace and healing throughout their recovery. Our team is highly experienced in mental health and substance use counseling, and our programs integrate a variety of treatment modalities, including equine therapy, trauma-sensitive yoga, meditation and more.
Our full-spectrum approach is designed to address your physical, mental and spiritual health in order to equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to achieve long-lasting recovery.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your recovery, send us a message or call us directly to speak with one of our specialists and find the right treatment plan for you.
