Getting addiction help is a big, frightening step. Namely, you’re likely afraid of judgment and being shamed by strangers. Likewise, you’re worried about making changes and failing to keep them up. Further, you’re scared of suffering pain during withdrawal. On top of that, you’re confused about which drug treatment to choose. Of course, the medical terms from detox to outpatient are pretty tricky for most. However, you don’t have to endure this alone. Rather, there’s professional help available to guide you. For instance, this article will introduce one rehab option: the partial hospitalization program. In short, PHP provides the individual or group the counseling they need without overnight stays. Ergo, they won’t enter into a 24-hour facility. As an inpatient alternative, PHP delivers mental health drug addiction therapies all day long.
What Partial Hospitalization Involves
Since the 1960s, behavioral health centers have offered PHP for a short-term, yet thorough treatment. In other words, it provides structure and discipline without taking all freedom away. Therefore, partial hospitalization for drug addiction usually happens after detox. This means it starts once you’ve finished withdrawing from drugs or alcohol. First, evaluations are done to ensure you’re mentally stable enough for PHP. Second, licensed counselors personalize a treatment plan for your unique needs. Generally, patients attend therapy sessions during normal hours of 9 AM to 5 PM like work. During the 30-50 weekly hours, you’ll address the root causes of your addiction and mental health disorder. Altogether, PHP patients learn to cope with triggers and mood changes while sober. In most cases, partial hospitalization programs last three to five weeks.
Who is Eligible for Partial Hospitalization
Above all, PHP is for addicts with mental health dual diagnosis. To explain, you must meet the criteria for another psychiatric disorder. Yet, a partial hospitalization program requires a certain level of competence. Specifically, you can’t be facing any life-threatening conditions. For example, someone who attempts self-harm or suicide wouldn’t qualify. Likewise, alcohol and benzo users at risk of severe withdrawal need inpatient care. Instead, individuals must be physically capable of getting themselves to and from therapy. Additionally, you should have a safe, supportive home environment to stay in. As such, homeless people and domestic violence victims don’t typically benefit from PHP. Equally, anyone living with other drug or alcohol users need more supervision. Besides that, partial hospitalization is effective for many disorders, including:
- Generalized anxiety
- Post-traumatic stress
- Clinical depression
- Bipolar disorder
- Schizophrenia
- Anorexia or bulimia
- Attention deficit disorder
Benefits of Entering a Partial Hospitalization Program
Uniquely, PHP is the middle step between inpatient and outpatient. Often, people enjoy avoiding full-time because they remain with their families. Meanwhile, they’re also more successful with several hours of treatment rather than just a few. A partial hospitalization program conveniently brings together all of the services you need. Under one roof, you can visit medical doctors, psychologists, and counselors. Sometimes, social workers run career training or addiction education to prevent drug reuse. Accordingly, PHP is a smoother transition from rehab to everyday life. In addition, you’ll get the dual diagnosis treatment to medicate and manage mental illnesses. Ultimately, partial hospitalization gets addicts back on their feet and ready for sobriety.