Acera Health

When Should I Consider Inpatient Mental Health Treatment?

Reviewed by: Melody Stone

An individual should consider inpatient mental health treatment if they have a severe mental health condition, such as severe depression, anxiety, or mood disorder which requires a higher level of care than outpatient services can provide. Mental Health America reports that around 4.91% of adults in the U.S. experienced severe mental illness in 2022. However, even if your mental illness isn’t severe, inpatient treatment can still be highly beneficial for you.

Inpatient treatment can also be helpful if you have not responded well to outpatient treatment or need a more structured and supportive environment to manage your symptoms. Though, it’s essential to weigh the potential drawbacks, such as the cost and time away from work or family, and to make the decision in consultation with a mental health professional.

group of people sitting in a circles hands at a group therapy at a residential inpatient facility

What is Residential Inpatient Mental Health Treatment

Residential inpatient mental health treatment involves staying at a specialized mental health center, living alongside other patients, and having access to support from expert doctors and therapists. These centers offer a safe and structured environment where individuals can focus on their mental health recovery away from daily life.

Learn more about Acera Mental Health’s Residential Inpatient Facility here.

What are the Benefits of Inpatient Treatment

Residential treatment offers numerous benefits, including:

  • Time and Space: Treatment centers provide a break from daily life, allowing individuals to focus on managing their mental health and escaping triggering environments.
  • Range of Treatment Options: Centers offer various treatment options, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), medication-assisted treatment, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), support groups, individual therapy sessions, and group therapy. Research has demonstrated that CBT is an effective treatment for various mental illnesses, such as depression, anxiety disorders, and bipolar disorder.
  • Around-the-Clock Care: For those facing safety concerns or difficulties with self-care, 24/7 professional care is invaluable.
  • Post-Treatment Transition: After completing residential treatment, staff will help patients transition back to daily life, offering outpatient support groups and connections with other residents.

How Long is Inpatient Treatment

The duration of inpatient treatment varies depending on individual needs and progress. However, the average stay in an inpatient facility is around 30 days. Some programs may be shorter or longer, depending on the patient’s condition and the facility’s offerings. Learn more about how long residential mental health treatment is here.

When Do I Need Inpatient Treatment?

Knowing when to seek inpatient residential treatment for mental health conditions can be a challenging decision. In some instances, outpatient services may not be enough to manage severe symptoms, and a more intensive approach may be necessary for long-term healing and growth. It’s worth noting that according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevent, 2.8% of adults in 2019 experienced severe symptoms of depression, indicating that many individuals may benefit from seeking additional support.

Consider inpatient residential treatment if you or your loved one:

  • Experiences severe symptoms that significantly impair daily functioning, such as difficulty maintaining personal hygiene, inability to work or attend school, and challenges in maintaining relationships.
  • Faces safety concerns, such as suicidal ideation or self-harm, where 24/7 supervision and support are crucial for ensuring the patient’s well-being.
  • Benefits from a structured daily routine and therapeutic programming to address mental health challenges and develop coping skills.
  • Wants to be surrounded by peers who understand and can relate to personal experiences, fostering a sense of community and support.
  • Are looking for a more immersive and intensive approach to mental health treatment to facilitate long-term healing and growth.
  • Struggles with co-occurring disorders, such as substance abuse alongside mental health issues, and requires more hands-on care.

While inpatient treatment offers significant benefits to numerous individuals, considering outpatient options is equally crucial to ensure, you select the treatment that most effectively meets your needs. Learn more about inpatient vs. outpatient mental health treatment here.

Residential Treatment at Acera Mental Health

Residential mental health treatment centers provide a comprehensive approach to managing mental health conditions. With a variety of treatment options, professional support, and a sense of community, these centers offer an invaluable resource for those looking to improve their mental health.

At Acera Health in Orange County, we understand that every individual’s journey to mental health recovery is unique. That’s why we offer a variety of programs to meet our patient’s needs, including residential inpatient treatment, outpatient treatment, and intensive outpatient programs. Our mental health professionals are dedicated to working with patients every step of the way to help them improve their mental health and reach their goals.

To learn more about this level of care, visit our comprehensive guide on residential treatment.

Whether you’re struggling with severe depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions, our team at Acera Health is here to provide the support and care you need. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a healthier and happier life.

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