Inpatient vs. Outpatient Mental Health Care
As you explore your options for mental health care, you have undoubtedly come across terms like “outpatient” and “inpatient hospitalization” and wondered what the differences are and what option might be right for you.
What Is Inpatient vs. Outpatient Care?
Inpatient Care is when you get checked in, and you stay in a mental health facility. You have 24/7 care and the support of compassionate professionals. Outpatient care is when you live at home and go in for treatment for various times a week.
Many people in need of help transition between the two types. You might stay in an inpatient mental health facility where you begin working on a care plan with professionals. You then transition to outpatient, where you continue to work through your plan. This strategy gives you 24/7 support in the beginning when you need it but then allows you to practice what you’ve learned with family and friends in a home setting.
Types of Outpatient Mental Health Care
Treatments are not mutually exclusive. Your individualized care plan may include several of these. You are a whole person, so any care plan must help you manage your mental health from multiple angles–physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Types of outpatient mental health care include:
- Diagnoses Review
- Individual psychotherapy (talk therapy)
- Family counseling
- Group counseling
- Support Groups
- Medication management
- Education
- Assessment for any concerns with substance abuse (if applicable)
Types of Inpatient Care
Inpatient hospitalization includes many of the same outpatient options, but you’ll be staying at the facility where you practice the skills you learn in treatment with professionals and other people in the facility with similar mental health challenges during group sessions.
The length of time you stay depends on your unique needs. You may only need a short-term stay. Those in stabilization/treatment/hospitalization average about 5-7 days before transitioning to an outpatient program.
Which Mental Health Option is Better?
There is no single best option for everyone. Right now, you may be mentally exhausted as you’ve been trying to manage your mental health challenges alone. You may even be worried about what you might do if you don’t get help right now. For you, having 24/7 compassionate support of people who will listen and support your recovery may be exactly what you need for a time. You might need to use several strategies as you progress through treatment. Inpatient cost is higher, which can pose a barrier to treatment. We work with you to ensure you get the care you need, whether you choose inpatient or outpatient.
You are Heard Here
If you are concerned about yourself. Give us a call. We’re a safe space designed for healing. Our patients’ safety and security are top priorities. We’ve created a clean, relaxing, inspirational space for your healing to begin. Our dedicated team is committed to your care.
Learn more about what to expect. You will be heard here.
Jonas Hill Hospital & Clinic , a division of Caldwell Memorial Hospital provides our community with safe, dignified and integrated care for adult patients experiencing an acute mental health need. We provide hope, treatment, and healing through a holistic program of evidence-based psychiatric treatment, team-based medical care, and education provided by engaging and dedicated professionals in a safe and healing environment. Contact Jonas Hill Hospital and Clinic today at (828) 394-6722 for more information. A safe space to heal.