Partial hospitalization programs allow addicts to live at home while receiving treatment for their addiction problems and mental health conditions. The goal of partial hospitalization programs is to treat people with substance abuse disorders that are related to another mental health condition. Most addictions involve other disorders such as depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The NIDA defines partial hospitalization programs (PHPs) as “programs that let patients undergo treatment at rehab facilities for four to six hours per day on a minimum of five days a week.” PHPs are sometimes referred to as “day treatments.”
A Step Between Outpatient and Residential Treatment
Partial hospitalization programs constitute a middle ground between residential treatment programs and regular outpatient programs in which a person receives treatment only a couple of times per week. For some people, PHPs can serve as a step down from residential treatment programs after they have detoxed and stabilized. For other people, a partial hospitalization program in and of itself might be their best choice to get the rehabilitation they need to live a life of sobriety, especially if they have mitigating circumstances such as caring for children or older adults in their households that make it difficult for them to leave home.
Strategies and Scope of Partial Hospitalization Programs
Patients in partial hospitalization programs receive much of the same types of treatment as patients in residential treatment programs. PHPs can include individual and group counseling sessions, medical care, psychiatric medications, and Twelve Step meetings. Treatment plans in PHPs are individual plans. When it comes to recovery, one size doesn’t fit all. But, all people with substance abuse disorders require treatment that provides stability and compassionate care.
Effectiveness of Treatment
Every effort is made by providers to ensure that patients fully avail themselves of the benefits of treatment programs. Partial hospitalization programs constitute effective rehabilitation for people with substance abuse disorders paired with a mental health condition. As a treatment option, a PHP offers an excellent balance between highly structured care and a higher degree of independence. This ensures that patients can maintain their sobriety once the treatment program has ended.
PHPs can be an excellent choice, depending on your circumstances. You realize you need help with a substance abuse disorder. But, you have commitments that mean you need to be at home as much as possible. If so, you should talk with healthcare professionals to find out if a Partial Hospitalization Plan would be the best option for you.
Resources:
drugabuse.gov – Treatment Settings