Choosing Inpatient Treatment: What You Need to Know

Learn more about inpatient treatment programs for mental health and addiction recovery in this comprehensive article.

How Black Horse Health Can Help You Heal With Our Inpatient Treatment Options

At Black Horse Health, we understand that some individuals may need more intensive treatment as they work to heal from substance use disorders, mental health challenges and conditions, chronic pain, or trauma.

Our team of skilled and compassionate specialists have over 100 years of combined experience, and we are committed to helping you or your loved one get the treatment you need through our inpatient treatment program.

With both evidence-based and holistic treatment services such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, detox, medical monitoring, and aftercare planning, we work with you to craft an inpatient treatment plan that addresses your needs while ensuring you remain supported and cared for.

What are the Next Steps Toward Recovery?

Learn more about our inpatient programs, other treatment opportunities, and how our Black Horse Health team of specialists can help you heal in this comprehensive article.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to our team for more information or to begin your path to wellness today. Lead the happy, healthy, and fulfilling life you deserve.

What is Inpatient Treatment?

Inpatient treatment is a type of medical care where patients stay at a facility to get round-the-clock support and treatment for their mental health and addiction challenges.

During treatment, patients receive comprehensive care from a team of healthcare professionals, including:

Doctors
Therapists
Nurses

Benefits of Inpatient Treatment

In 2021, approximately 21.6% of adults sought mental health treatment.¹ Inpatient treatment is particularly beneficial for people experiencing severe mental health issues that need intensive intervention and monitoring.

By providing a safe and supervised environment, inpatient treatment aims to help patients:

Stabilize their symptoms
Develop coping skills
Create a solid foundation for long-term recovery

How Does Inpatient Treatment Differ From Outpatient Care?

Inpatient treatment refers to a level of care where patients get admitted to a facility. They live there for a set period, getting round-the-clock medical attention and support.

Outpatient care, on the other hand, does not require patients to get admitted to a facility. It allows them to go about their daily activities while attending scheduled appointments.

These two approaches have distinct differences in terms of:

Intensity
Duration
Levels of care provided

Structure and Environment

When receiving inpatient treatment, patients stay at a healthcare facility. They have access to medical professionals 24/7. They take part in structured activities and therapy sessions within a controlled environment.

People in outpatient care get treatment without staying overnight. They visit the facility for scheduled appointments and can return to their homes afterward. Outpatient care provides flexibility, allowing patients to continue their daily routines.

Intensity of Support

Inpatient treatment offers intensive support and supervision. Patients have constant access to healthcare professionals and staff. This level of care is beneficial for people with severe conditions that need close monitoring.

Conversely, outpatient care provides a lower level of support compared to inpatient treatment. Patients attend scheduled appointments and receive care from healthcare professionals. But, they don’t have immediate access to medical support outside of these appointments.

Outpatient care can be suitable for those who have already completed inpatient treatment, for those with less severe symptoms, or for individuals with work or famuly obligations that need to be sustained regularly.

Duration of Treatment

The duration of inpatient treatment can vary depending on the person’s condition. It may range from a few days to several weeks or even months. The extended stay allows for comprehensive evaluation, stabilization, and intensive treatment.

Outpatient care involves a series of scheduled appointments over time. Treatment duration can vary widely depending on patient progress. Outpatient care may span from a few weeks to several months or even longer. The length of the outpatient program depends on the complexity of the condition.

Focus on Daily Life

During inpatient treatment, patients are fully immersed in a therapeutic environment. The focus is primarily on recovery, and patients may have limited distractions.

They’re provided with structured daily routines that include:

Therapy sessions
Educational activities
Opportunities for social interaction with peers

Alternatively, outpatient treatment allows patients to maintain their daily routines. They can attend sessions at designated times while managing normal obligations. Outpatient care aims to integrate treatment into the person’s existing lifestyle. This promotes self-management and long-term recovery.

What are the Key Benefits of Choosing Inpatient Treatment Over Other Forms of Care?

Inpatient treatment provides a supportive environment that promotes healing and recovery. With round-the-clock care, these programs offer more support and a higher chance of success.

Continuous Supervision and Support

Inpatient treatment ensures continuous supervision and support from healthcare professionals. They make sure you’re safe and help you without any breaks.

If something goes wrong, they can get you help right away. It also helps in the management of withdrawal symptoms associated with substance use disorder.

Structured Treatment Programs

Inpatient programs customize treatment plans for patients based on their needs. These programs often include a combination of:

Therapy sessions
Group activities
Educational workshops
Holistic therapies

Structured treatment programs provide patients with a clear roadmap for their recovery journey. This plan teaches them how to deal with their feelings and problems. It also provides better ways to handle stressors.

Peer Support and Connection

The leading risk factors for suicide are psychiatric diseases, including:²

Depression
Substance use disorders
Psychosis

Inpatient treatment allows patients to connect with others in similar situations. Group therapy sessions and shared living spaces foster feelings of support and understanding.

Importance of Peer Support

Peer support plays a crucial role in the recovery process. It helps patients learn from others who have successfully overcome similar challenges. Peer connections can provide a sense of belonging. This reduces feelings of isolation and increases motivation to stay on the path to recovery.

Removal from Triggers and Temptations

In inpatient treatment, patients are far away from triggers that may make them want to use substances or engage in risky behavior. Being in a safe place helps people stop doing things that hurt them and focus on feeling better.

In fact, criminal activity among participants significantly decreases within one year of starting inpatient and opioid maintenance treatment.³

Comprehensive and Integrated Care

Inpatient treatment programs offer an integrated approach to care. They often provide a range of therapeutic interventions, including:

Individual therapy
Group therapy
Family therapy
Specialized treatment modalities

The delivery of a diverse range of therapies allows for a more holistic approach to treatment. This addresses the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of a person’s well-being.

Specialized Inpatient Treatment Programs for Specific Disorders and Addictions

Specialized inpatient treatment programs are designed to address the unique needs of each patient. The aim is to overcome the challenges associated with particular conditions. This ensures that people get the targeted care they need.

Specialized Programs for Substance Use Disorders (SUD)

Inpatient treatment programs cater to various substance use disorders, including:

Alcoholism
Cocaine dependence
Opioid addiction
Fentanyl abuse
Methadone use and dependency
Marijuana addiction
Heroin misuse

SUD Treatment

These programs focus on the unique needs of individuals struggling with addiction. They often include the following:

Detoxification
Individual and group therapy
Medication management
Relapse prevention strategies

Programs for Dual Diagnosis

Many people suffer from both mental health disorders and substance abuse problems. This condition is known as a dual diagnosis.

Specialized inpatient programs for dual diagnosis provide integrated treatment for both conditions. This addresses the complex interplay between mental health and addiction.

These programs combine therapy, medication management, and support groups. The aim is to help people achieve recovery and maintain long-term mental wellness.

Specialized Inpatient Programs for Trauma

Trauma can profoundly impact a person’s mental health and well-being. Specialized inpatient programs for trauma offer a safe and healing environment where patients can:

Address unresolved trauma
Learn coping mechanisms
Develop resilience

Trauma-Focused Therapies

These programs often include evidence-based therapies, such as:

Art therapy
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
Music therapy
Somatic Experiencing

Gender-Specific Programs

Some people may feel more comfortable in gender-specific inpatient programs. These programs cater exclusively to either men or women. This creates a supportive environment that addresses gender-specific challenges and experiences.

Who is a Suitable Candidate for Inpatient Treatment?

Roughly 41.7 million adults received counseling or treatment for their mental health in 2021.⁴ But, how does one know if they need a comprehensive inpatient treatment program? It’s important to look at the severity of distress and the impact on daily functioning.

People with Severe Symptoms

Suitable candidates for inpatient care often exhibit severe symptoms or high levels of suffering. This prevents them from performing everyday tasks or activities and puts them at risk of harm. They have difficulty managing emotions due to an underlying disorder such as depression.

People Struggling with Dangerous Behaviors

For some individuals, substance misuse can exacerbate symptoms of mental health challenges, such as depression or anxiety. In this instance, inpatient treatment can help. If someone is also hurting themselves or trying to end their life, inpatient treatment is a safe place with people who can help.

How Does the Duration of Inpatient Treatment Vary Depending on the Condition Being Treated?

Inpatient treatment can vary in duration depending on the condition being treated. Some conditions may need a short stay of a few days or even a week to receive comprehensive care. On the other hand, others may need a longer stay of several months.

Healthcare professionals determine the length of inpatient treatment. Individual responses to therapy and the severity of the condition determine this decision. Each patient’s journey is unique, so inpatient treatment is tailored to meet their specific needs.

Key Components of a Typical Inpatient Treatment Program

Inpatient programs promote recovery by creating a healing environment. Below are some of the key components of these programs.

Medical Assessment and Stabilization

Before starting any treatment, patients undergo a thorough medical assessment. This helps the treatment team understand their immediate medical needs. If there are any severe health concerns, they’re addressed first to ensure safety and well-being.

Detoxification (Detox)

For those struggling with substance use disorders, detoxification is often the first step in recovery. Detox helps remove harmful substances from the body while managing withdrawal symptoms. It is done under the supervision of medical professionals to ensure safety and comfort.

Individualized Treatment Plans

Every person is unique, so inpatient programs create individualized treatment plans. These plans outline specific goals and strategies for each person’s recovery journey.

They consider the person’s:

Background
Needs
Preferences
Goals

Therapy and Counseling

Inpatient programs offer various types of therapy and counseling. This includes individual therapy, where a person talks one-on-one with a therapist.

There are also group therapy sessions where people with similar struggles discuss their challenges together. Family therapy may also be included to help mend relationships.

Medication Management

For some mental health conditions, medications are part of the treatment. Inpatient programs provide medication management. It ensures that patients take the right medication at the right time. Medical professionals monitor the effects and adjust as needed.

Holistic Therapies

In addition to traditional therapies, inpatient programs often include integrative, whole-person approaches. This may include techniques such as:

Art therapy
Equine therapy
Yoga
Meditation
Mindfulness exercises

These therapies focus on healing the whole person by addressing their emotional, mental, and physical well-being.

Aftercare Planning

Recovery is an ongoing process, so inpatient programs help patients plan for life after treatment. This may involve connecting them with:

Outpatient services
Support groups
Continued therapy
Alumni services

The aim is to maintain their progress for an extended period.

Incorporating Both Medical and Therapeutic Approaches

In inpatient facilities, treatment plans often include both medical and therapeutic methods. Medical approaches involve medicines and careful monitoring of physical health. Doctors check how the body is doing and give medicines if needed.

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT), for instance, helps individuals during the detoxification process and helps reduce cravings for certain substances.

Therapeutic methods focus on the mind and emotions. Therapists talk with patients to understand their feelings and thoughts. They help patients learn new ways to cope with challenges and improve mental well-being.

Using both medical and therapeutic techniques, inpatient facilities aim to heal both the body and mind. This lays a solid foundation for sustainable, whole-person wellness and recovery.

What to Expect When Entering an Inpatient Treatment Facility

Entering an inpatient treatment facility can be a significant step toward recovery. It’s essential for patients and their families to understand what to expect.

Admission Process

Upon entering an inpatient treatment facility, the admission process will take place. Staff will gather essential information to create a personalized treatment plan.

This step includes:

Completing necessary paperwork
Providing personal and medical information
Discussing any concerns or questions

Initial Assessment

After the admission process, patients will proceed to an initial assessment. During this evaluation, they will discuss their medical history and substance use (if applicable).

They will also talk about mental health concerns and any other relevant information. This assessment is crucial for the development of an individualized treatment plan.

Day-to-Day Schedule

In an inpatient treatment facility, patients and their families should expect a structured routine. The schedule provides a balanced approach to address physical, psychological, and emotional needs. This routine often includes a variety of therapeutic activities.

These may include:

Individual counseling sessions
Group therapy sessions
Educational workshops
Recreational activities

Supportive Environment

Inpatient treatment facilities strive to create a nurturing environment for people during their stay. The facility’s staff understands the challenges people in treatment face. They aim to provide a safe space where patients can engage in the therapeutic process without judgment.

Focus on Wellness

Wellness is a key component of inpatient treatment facilities. Clients and their families should expect a focus on physical and emotional well-being throughout their stay. The holistic approach to wellness helps patients restore balance and improve overall health.

This may include:

Regular exercise
Healthy nutrition
Stress management techniques
Opportunities for self-reflection and self-care

Family Involvement

Inpatient treatment facilities recognize the importance of family involvement in the recovery process. Family therapy sessions may be offered to address any family dynamics. The goal is to address issues that may contribute to addiction or mental health problems.

The Role of Medical Supervision in Inpatient Treatment and Recovery

Medical supervision within an inpatient treatment setting plays a pivotal role in the journey to recovery.

Comprehensive Assessment and Diagnosis

At the start of inpatient treatment, doctors assess patients carefully. They look at:

Health records
Drug use history
Current condition

This helps doctors diagnose any medical or mental health issues that need special treatment.

Meticulous Medication Management

For people who need medicine in their treatment, medical supervision is crucial. Doctors prescribe, administer, and track medicines, making sure they’re safe and effective. They also handle side effects and changes in medicine.⁵

Simultaneous Treatment of Co-Occurring Conditions

Many people in inpatient treatment have both mental health and substance use disorders. In fact, approximately 50% of individuals struggling with severe mental health conditions also struggle with substance abuse.

Medical supervision helps diagnose and treat both of these conditions at the same time.

Astute Management of Medical Emergencies

In case of unexpected medical problems, medical supervision is crucial. Inpatient facilities have trained staff and resources ready to act fast and help. This keeps patients safe during emergencies.

Holistic Healthcare Opportunities

Medical supervision stretches beyond the confines of immediate medical concerns. It envelopes holistic healthcare, which focuses on all aspects of a person’s well-being.

This encompasses the vigilant monitoring of:

Nutritional intake
Physical activity
Sleep patterns

Recovery on both a physical and emotional level is the goal.

Tailored Treatment Blueprints

Medical supervision helps create special treatment plans for each person. These plans look at what each person needs so that treatment works best for them.

How Do Inpatient Treatment Centers Ensure a Safe and Controlled Environment?

Ensuring a secure setting is paramount to support the recovery journey. Here’s how inpatient treatment centers provide a safe environment:

Trained and Vigilant Staff

Inpatient centers have trained staff who know how to handle different situations. They are ready to help in emergencies and support patients at all times.

Controlled Access and Monitoring

Not anyone can enter the facility. Inpatient centers carefully track who’s allowed in. They do this to ensure that only authorized people are inside the center.

Structured Daily Routines

Inpatient centers have a daily plan that everyone follows. It includes:

Therapy
Group activities
Meals
Rest time

This plan helps people create healthy routines and feel more in control.

Supervised Living Arrangements

Inpatient treatment centers provide supervised arrangements where patients share living spaces. Staff members conduct regular checks to ensure a safe and supportive living environment. This supervision minimizes the potential for risky behaviors and conflicts among residents.

Controlled Substance Use

Inpatient centers carefully control the administration of medication-assisted treatment. In this way, prescription medications get administered in a controlled manner. This reduces the risk of substance-related issues.

Safety Protocols and Emergency Response

Inpatient facilities have stringent safety protocols in place. These protocols cover a range of situations, from medical emergencies to emotional crises. The staff is trained to respond swiftly and effectively to ensure patient safety.

Secured Environment

The physical environment of inpatient treatment centers is designed with safety in mind. Features such as locked doors, surveillance cameras, and controlled access points are critical. They help create a secure and controlled setting.

Mitigating the Potential Challenges and Drawbacks of Inpatient Treatment

Inpatient treatment is beneficial for people seeking mental health or substance use recovery. But, like any approach, it comes with its challenges and potential drawbacks. Below are some of these problems and how to overcome them.

Initial Adjustment and Comfort

Transitioning to an inpatient environment can be challenging. Some patients may initially feel uncomfortable or out of place. Inpatient facilities aim to create welcoming spaces. Patients can bring personal items for comfort while staff provide emotional support.

Loss of Independence

It’s possible that some patients perceive losing independence when following a structured schedule. Inpatient programs encourage active participation in decision-making and therapeutic activities. This allows patients to regain a sense of control.

Cost and Insurance Coverage

Inpatient treatment can be costly, and insurance coverage may vary. Patients can explore insurance options and potential financial assistance to ease the burden.

Separation from Loved Ones

Being away from family and friends can be emotionally difficult. Inpatient programs often incorporate family therapy and visits to maintain support systems.

Potential Stigma

Some people may fear the stigma associated with inpatient treatment. Education and open discussions about mental health and addiction help reduce stigma. This makes clients more comfortable with seeking treatment.

Adjustment to Aftercare

Transitioning back to daily life after inpatient treatment can be challenging. Inpatient programs often include aftercare planning. The aim is to provide continued support and resources for people post-discharge.

Overcoming Resistance

Some patients may initially resist treatment. Supportive staff and a personalized treatment plan can help individuals overcome resistance.

The Role of Support Groups and Peer Interactions in the Inpatient Treatment Experience

Support groups and peer interactions play a crucial role in the inpatient treatment experience. These connections offer valuable emotional support and a sense of belonging.

Below is a closer look at their significance.

Emotional Support

Support groups provide a safe space for people to share their thoughts and feelings. They offer understanding and empathy from peers who are going through similar experiences. This emotional support helps reduce feelings of isolation and improves well-being.⁶

Shared Experiences

Talking to people who have faced similar problems can give hope. Hearing how others overcame challenges can inspire people to keep getting better.

Coping Strategies

In support groups, people can learn practical ways to deal with their challenges. These strategies can include:

Stress management techniques
Communication skills
Effective ways to handle triggers and cravings in the case of addiction treatment

Accountability

Peer interactions create a sense of accountability. Knowing that others are on a similar path encourages patients to stay committed. Sharing progress and setbacks with peers can be motivating and help people stay on track.

Building Trust

Support groups and peer interactions help patients build trust in themselves and others. Trust is essential for healing and recovery.

It allows participants to:

Open up
Be vulnerable
Accept help from both professionals and peers

Long-Term Connections

Many people make friends in support groups. These friends can keep supporting each other even after leaving the treatment center. Staying connected with people who understand their journey can be very helpful.

Reducing Stigma

Being part of a group helps end the shame linked to mental health and addiction. It helps people see that they are not defined by their condition. It also teaches them that seeking help is a good thing.

How Does Black Horse Health Provide Supportive Inpatient Care?

Black Horse Health is dedicated to providing top-notch inpatient care. We focus on several key aspects of treatment to ensure our patients receive the best support during their stay.

Integrative Wellness Services

At Black Horse Health, we believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. Our integrative wellness services include a range of therapies like:

Yoga
Meditation
Art therapy

These services help patients reconnect with their minds and bodies, promoting a sense of balance and well-being.

A Focus on Positive Mindset

We understand the power of a positive mindset in the healing process. Our dedicated staff works closely with patients to nurture a positive outlook on life. We encourage mindfulness and gratitude practices, helping clients build resilience and optimism.

Evidence-Based Modalities

Our treatment approaches are rooted in evidence-based modalities. We use therapies, such as CBT and EMDR, that have been proven to be effective in treating mental health and addiction issues. These evidence-based practices provide patients with the best chance for successful recovery.

Personalized Care

We recognize that every person is unique, and their path to recovery should reflect that. At Black Horse Health, we create personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s specific needs and goals. This ensures that our patients receive the most effective and relevant care during their stay.

Holistic Healing

Our approach goes beyond addressing the symptoms; we focus on holistic healing. This means we consider all aspects of a person’s life, including their physical, emotional, and social well-being.

We do this through our integrative service opportunities, such as nutritional support and counrseling, drama therapy, meditation, equine therapy, trauma-focused treatment, and more.

By addressing the root causes of their struggles, we empower clients to achieve lasting recovery.

Supportive Community

At Black Horse Health, we foster a supportive community within our treatment center. Patients find camaraderie and encouragement from both their peers and our caring staff. This sense of belonging can be a powerful motivator in the recovery journey.

Continuum of Care

We understand that the journey to recovery doesn’t end when inpatient treatment concludes. That’s why we offer a continuum of care, including intensive outpatient services and ongoing support.

This ensures that our patients have the resources they need to maintain their progress beyond their inpatient stay.

Contact Black Horse Health Today

Take the first step toward recovery today. Reach out to us for more information about our available Houston-based treatment opportunities.

We’re here to help you harness the power of wellness.

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