If you’re struggling with a mental health disorder or you have a loved one who is, it can be challenging to know what treatment options are available. Whatever your situation may be, it’s helpful to be aware of the following six signs indicating that you or a loved one may need inpatient treatment.
What Is Inpatient Therapy/Treatment?
Inpatient therapy is the most intensive type of treatment for patients suffering from severe substance use disorder or other mental health disorders. Clients in inpatient treatment receive 24/7 monitoring and intensive care, and the length of stay depends on various factors, including their response to treatment and if they have any co-occurring conditions.
Residential treatment, on the other hand, is a less intensive live-in treatment option for people suffering from mental health disorders or substance use disorder. The third level of treatment for mental health disorders and substance use disorder is outpatient treatment, which is appropriate for clients who still need treatment and support but require a less restrictive setting. During outpatient treatment, clients can live at home or can live in supportive housing.
6 Signs That You (or a Loved One) May Need Inpatient Treatment
1. Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts or behaviors, it’s vital not to ignore the warning signs and get help immediately, which can include inpatient treatment for depression, anxiety, or other mental health disorders. Some warning signs include but aren’t limited to talking about wanting to die or kill oneself, looking for a way to kill oneself, talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live, or talking about being a burden to others.
2. Lack of self-care
Do you lack the motivation to take good care of yourself? If you stop eating, taking medication, or going to work, it may be time to seek inpatient mental health treatment. Other related symptoms include difficulty sleeping, difficulty staying awake, and the lack of desire to participate in social situations.
3. Substance abuse
Sometimes people with mental health disorders attempt to self-medicate with alcohol or drugs, which can lead to a substance use disorder. Unfortunately, substance abuse worsens mental health disorders. Dual diagnoses can be challenging to treat because of the two distinct components so that inpatient treatment may be necessary. At Pasadena Villa, we provide evidence-based treatment that addresses both the substance use disorder and any underlying mental health conditions to ensure the best chance of recovery.
4. Troubles with important relationships
When relationships start to suffer because of your or your loved one’s mental illness, it’s time to get help. Mental health disorders can have a significant effect on your mood and desire to participate in daily activities that you usually would. This can cause you to cancel plans with friends at the last minute and avoid family members at home, which may be detrimental to your relationships. Inpatient treatment for mental health disorders and substance use disorder can also help restore the relationships in your life.
5. Absence of a safe environment for recovery
A vital component of ensuring a successful recovery from a mental health disorder is living in an environment that’s conducive to recovery. If you live with others who negatively impact your mental state, you may need inpatient therapy. Being around supportive peers, as well as having access to 24/7 monitoring, may be the safe environment that you need to recover fully.
6. Psychotic episodes
During a psychotic episode, a person’s thoughts and perceptions are disturbed, and the individual may have difficulty understanding what’s real and what’s not. Psychosis can be caused by a mental illness, a physical injury or illness, substance abuse, or extreme stress or trauma. Psychosis causes individuals to hear sounds that don’t exist, see people or things that aren’t there, and worry about being watched or harmed. If you or someone you love experiences a psychotic episode, you may need inpatient treatment.
Understanding the Difference Between Inpatient and Outpatient Therapy
When seeking treatment for mental health disorders or substance use, it’s essential to explore the various therapeutic options available. Inpatient therapy is the most intensive form of treatment, providing 24/7 monitoring and intensive care for individuals with severe conditions. On the other hand, outpatient therapy offers a less restrictive setting, allowing clients to receive treatment while living at home or in supportive housing.
Specific features of inpatient therapy
Inpatient therapy, including residential treatment, is tailored for those with severe mental health disorders or substance use issues. The intensity of care and duration of stay depends on individual needs and response to treatment. In contrast, outpatient treatment suits those who still require support but can manage treatment within a less structured environment.
Types of inpatient treatment
- Medical Stabilization: Some individuals may require immediate medical attention due to the severity of their condition. Inpatient treatment facilities offer medical stabilization to address acute symptoms and provide a safe environment for recovery.
- Psychiatric Intensive Care: For individuals experiencing severe psychiatric crises, psychiatric intensive care within an inpatient setting ensures specialized care and constant supervision.
- Dual Diagnosis Treatment: In cases where mental health disorders coexist with substance use issues, dual diagnosis inpatient treatment becomes crucial. This approach addresses both components comprehensively for a more effective recovery.
- Therapeutic Communities: Inpatient facilities often provide a supportive community environment where individuals can connect with peers facing similar challenges, fostering a sense of understanding and shared recovery goals.
- Crisis Intervention: Inpatient therapy handles crises promptly, offering immediate intervention and support during moments of heightened distress.
By understanding the differences between inpatient and outpatient therapy and the various types of inpatient treatment, individuals and their loved ones can make informed decisions tailored to their specific needs. If you recognize any of the six signs mentioned earlier, it’s crucial to seek timely and appropriate care to promote physical, mental, and emotional recovery.
Find the Inpatient Therapy That’s Right for You
Based on the severity of your symptoms (or those of your loved one) and the disruption to everyday life, it’s important to act fast if you need inpatient treatment. Evidence-based treatment and compassionate care are the most important components to helping you or your loved one recover physically, mentally, and emotionally. Each of our Pasadena Villa Network facilities helps our clients ensure sustained recovery by addressing their psychological, medical, nutritional, spiritual, and relational needs. If you need residential treatment or outpatient treatment for a mental health disorder, substance use disorder, or a dual diagnosis, call Pasadena Villa Network today.
