OUTPATIENT MENTAL HEALTH

If you or someone you know struggles with their mental health, it may be time to consider treatment options. For many people, the word “treatment” conjures up images of locked facilities where visiting hours are strictly regulated. While this type of treatment does exist and can be very helpful, a less-restrictive therapeutic environment can be helpful as well. Outpatient mental health programs offer the same quality of treatment as inpatient programs but with more freedom and flexibility.

WHAT IS OUTPATIENT TREATMENT FOR MENTAL HEALTH?

Outpatient treatment refers to non-residential treatment, in which the patient spends structured time in treatment during the day or evening and returns home each night. People who choose to participate in outpatient mental health treatment do so for a variety of reasons. They may have small children at home or businesses to run and cannot take weeks or months out of their lives to live in a residential facility. Others may be transitioning out of an inpatient program but still require the support and structure that outpatient treatment provides. Outpatient treatment programs are beneficial for those with mild to moderate symptoms who have a strong support system at home.

TYPES OF OUTPATIENT MENTAL HEALTH PROGRAMS

Outpatient mental health treatment is not one-size-fits-all. Most mental health treatment programs do involve some combination of individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, medication management, and after care, but treatment plans are customized to meet the specific needs of each individual. One of the first things to consider is which type of outpatient treatment program will be most beneficial to the patient. There are three main types of outpatient programs, each with varying levels of structure.

Standard outpatient treatment involves regular visits to the outpatient clinic. Therapy sessions are scheduled around the patient’s work, school, and other responsibilities. Treatment may be weekly or more frequent. With a focus on managing symptoms, identifying triggers, overcoming fears, developing communication skills, and establishing healthy social norms, outpatient mental health treatment aims to help patients learn to thrive outside the therapeutic environment.

BENEFITS OF OUTPATIENT TREATMENT FOR MENTAL HEALTH

For people with mild to moderate symptoms, strong support systems at home, and the ability to function independently, outpatient treatment is usually an ideal choice. Patients can:
– Stay connected with loved ones while still receiving the treatment they need
– Maintain commitments and responsibilities with work and school
– Apply the skills and strategies they learn in treatment to real life situations
– Stay connected with their treatment team and remain accountable to their personalized care plan
– Transition slowly back into everyday situations, equipped with tools to help optimize their independence and live a meaningful life
– Most outpatient treatment programs also have the added benefit of being less expensive than residential programs.