Do Partial Hospitalization Programs Work?
Mental health has become an increasingly important topic for discussion in recent years, and it’s no wonder—mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and other mental illnesses are more common than ever before.
As such, it is essential to understand the various treatment options available to individuals struggling with mental health issues. One of these options is partial hospitalization programs (PHPs). These programs provide intensive therapy and medical attention while allowing patients to go home at night. But do they work? Let’s take a closer look.
What Is a Partial Hospitalization Program?
A partial hospitalization program (PHP) is an intensive form of treatment that offers individuals with mental illness or substance abuse a balanced level of care that combines both medical and therapeutic components.
This type of program typically includes group therapy sessions, individual counseling sessions, medication management, educational classes, and other therapies designed to help individuals manage their illnesses and live healthy lives. Patients typically stay in the program for several hours each day but return home at night.
How Does PHP Work?
The main goal of any partial hospitalization program is to help individuals learn how to manage their illness so that they can live successful lives both inside and outside of the treatment setting.
This type of program combines both evidence-based treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with more traditional approaches such as psychodynamic therapy in order to address the patient’s needs holistically. Additionally, medication management may be included as part of the program if necessary.
Does PHP Work?
Partial hospitalization programs have been shown to effectively reduce symptoms associated with mental illness or substance abuse while also providing structure and support during the recovery process. Studies have found that PHPs are effective at reducing rates of re-hospitalization among those who have been discharged from a psychiatric hospital or who are at risk for relapse due to an existing mental health issue or substance abuse disorder.
Furthermore, PHPs offer individuals the opportunity to receive intense treatment in a safe environment while still maintaining some independence by being able to go home at night.
The Pros and Cons of Partial Hospitalization Programs
The Pros
Partial hospitalization programs offer an array of services, including individual therapy sessions, group therapy sessions, medication management, psychoeducation classes, and recreational activities.
These services can help individuals gain insight into their mental health issues and develop coping strategies to manage them. Furthermore, they provide a safe, supportive environment that allows individuals to focus on their recovery without distraction or feeling overwhelmed by their outside responsibilities.
Additionally, many partial hospitalization programs allow individuals to transition seamlessly into inpatient care if needed. This can be particularly beneficial for those who are in crisis and need immediate attention but may not require 24-hour monitoring. In addition, many partial hospitalization programs accept insurance benefits that help defray the cost of care for those seeking treatment.
The Cons
One potential downside to partial hospitalization programs is the cost; while some may accept insurance benefits, not all do and even those that do may require expensive co-payments or deductibles. Additionally, some people may find the structure of these programs difficult to manage; since they involve multiple appointments throughout the day, it can be hard for people with busy schedules or other commitments to make time for treatment.
Lastly, these types of programs are not available everywhere; access to quality mental health resources varies greatly depending on location and availability.
Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs) are designed for those suffering from mental illness or substance abuse disorders who need more intensive care than what can be provided through traditional outpatient treatments but who still wish to maintain some degree of independence from living full-time in a residential facility.
These programs offer evidence-based treatments combined with traditional methods in order to provide comprehensive care while allowing patients some freedom by going home at night if desired.
Research has found that PHPs can successfully reduce symptoms associated with mental illness or substance abuse disorders while also providing structure and support during the recovery process; thus making them an effective option for those seeking additional help managing their condition(s). If you or someone you know could benefit from participating in a PHP, speak with your doctor about your options today!