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In a mental health crisis, the concern of safety comes first in the priority list of the person who is going through it. This can either imply visiting the emergency or being readmitted into an inpatient psychiatric unit. The aim then is stabilization, ensuring that the individual is safe and that there is minimization of immediate risks. But what comes next?

The process of recovery does not stop as soon as the crisis is over. Actually, the immediate post-discharge period is usually the most critical phase of recovery. It is at this stage that Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) will come in handy. The PHP closes the divide between inpatient and outpatient treatment and provides the structure and support necessary to help the people to keep on recovering.

From Emergency Stabilization to Ongoing Support

Post crisis you may feel weak, frightened or not knowing what to do. Hospital may have helped you feel safe at the moment but you might feel overwhelmed going home without any extra assistance.

Why the Transition Period Is So Important

A high number of relapses and recurrent hospitalizations occur at this transition phase. Symptoms may reoccur soon without appropriate care. This is why the use of structured programs such as PHP is so beneficial, it offers some stability in this delicate period.

Where PHP Fits in the Continuum of Mental Health Care

PHP is in the middle of treatment. It is more rigorous than weekly tms therapy but not so strict as inpatient treatment. It provides career supervision, therapeutic and skill development in a secure setting without you being forced to miss coming home at the end of the day.

What Is a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)?

A Structured, Short-Term Mental Health Program

A PHP is a day program that is aimed at those that require more than regular therapy but do not need 24-hour supervision.

Daytime Treatment With Return Home at Night

Treatment is carried out during the day and consists of participants returning home in the evening. This balance enables individuals to be in touch with their families and communities and be provided with structured care.

Typically 5 Days a Week, 4–6 Hours a Day

The majority of PHP treatment work Monday to Friday (between 4-6 hours per day). The program usually looks like a school or working day and there will be different kinds of sessions and activities in therapy.

Includes Therapy, Psychiatry, and Skills Training

PHPs are a combination of various treatment approaches, including:

• Group therapy
• Medication management
• Individual treatment (in certain programs)
• Coping skills training
• Wellness engagements such as mindfulness, art or stress management.

When PHP Is the Right Next Step

You’ve Just Been Discharged From Inpatient Hospitalization

When you have just come out of the hospital, life may seem daunting when you immediately start life on a normal scale. PHP also provides a step-down level of care that makes the transition a little bit easier although still offering daily support.

You’re in Crisis but Don’t Require 24-Hour Supervision

Perhaps you have some suicidal feelings or the problems of panic attacks or some severe depression, but you are not in imminent danger. PHP offers comprehensive assistance without having to stay in the hospital.

Outpatient Therapy Alone Isn’t Enough

In case weekly meetings are not sufficient to cope with your symptoms, or you realize that you miss work, school, or chores too often, PHP can give you the framework necessary to stabilize.

You Need a Safe, Supervised Bridge Between Hospital and Home Life

In the case of individuals living alone or without a good support system, PHP provides a daily routine and monitoring during the rehabilitation of confidence and coping mechanisms.

What PHP Treatment Typically Includes

Daily Group Therapy and Skills-Based Sessions

PHP is often based on group therapy. Topics such as emotional regulation, stress management and communication skills are discussed in sessions.

Weekly or Biweekly Psychiatric Medication Management

A psychiatrist will meet you to change or observe medication. This will keep your treatment plan up-to-date.

Individual Therapy Sessions (in some programs)

Other PHPs also offer one-on-one therapy to deal with more profound problems.

Case Management and Discharge Planning

Staff assist you in how you follow up next, i.e. transitioning to Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), returning to outpatient therapy, or linking up with community resources.

Common Conditions Treated in PHPs

Major Depressive Disorder and Suicidal Ideation

PHP is usually prescribed to individuals who have a serious depression or are experiencing chronic suicidal ideations.

Bipolar Disorder (non-acute phase)

Unless they are in an active manic episode or a psychotic episode, individuals with bipolar disorder might experience the benefits of PHP when they require close observation.

Generalized Anxiety, Panic, or PTSD

The serious anxiety or symptoms associated with trauma can be dealt with well under the guidance of PHP.

Eating Disorders (in some specialized PHPs)

Other programs are eating disorder specific, that includes meal support and psycho therapy.

Benefits of PHP After a Crisis

More Structure Than Weekly Therapy

In the case of severe symptoms, weekly therapy can seem too far between. PHP offers sessions daily, and it keeps the recovery on schedule.

Professional Monitoring Without Overnight Hospitalization

You see therapists, nurses and psychiatrists every day, yet you get the benefit of sleeping in your own bed at night.

Faster Access to Therapeutic and Psychiatric Support

Using PHP, you do not have to wait weeks between check-ins with therapy or pharmaceuticals. Problems can be discussed immediately.

Community Support From Peers Going Through Similar Challenges

Feeling isolated is something that can be alleviated by having people around who feel what you are going through.

Signs You Might Be Ready to Move From PHP to IOP or Outpatient Care

Mood and Functioning Are Stabilizing

You have less breakdowns and are able to handle emotions.

Crisis Symptoms Have Decreased

Suicidal ideations or panic attacks are less common or severe.

Improved Coping Skills and Emotional Regulation

You are applying new skills that you learned in PHP and they are working out.

Able to Safely Manage Home, Work, or School Responsibilities

When you are better able to manage everyday duties more effectively, maybe it time to reduce to less intensive care.

How to Get Into a PHP Program

Through Hospital Discharge or Emergency Referral

Patients are usually referred to PHPs by the hospitals after they leave the hospital so that they get support.

Ask Your Therapist or Psychiatrist for a Recommendation

Your existing provider will be able to determine the suitability of PHP.

Self-Referral in Many Cases (Call the Program Directly)

A good number of PHPs receive self-referrals. The process can be initiated by a simple phone call.

Check Insurance Coverage and Network Providers

Philosophy PHP is more thorough; therefore, one should make sure that the insurance company or program staff covers it.

Conclusion

The fact that you are experiencing a mental health crisis does not mean you cannot recover. Having the correct support, recovery can be achieved. Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs) offer the framework, treatment and instruction to stabilize and recover life following a crisis.

You are not the only one and you are neither too ill nor not ill enough. PHP is created to meet you at your level and provide you with the tools and support to proceed safely. This is not only to survive but to really recover and a better Hollywood.

A lot of people ask themselves whether or not PHP is the right move in life or amongst people they love but in the process they take their time to expound on the opportunities. To find out more about the programs offered to assist people in healing, growing, and recovering their lives, visit Minds Over Matter.

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