Partial hospitalization program sits between rehab and weekly therapy

What Is Partial Hospitalization?

The kind of treatment program where you go for daily sessions and return home later. Not everyone who is struggling to stop using drugs or improve their mental health needs to be under observation all the time. These are some things a PHP program might include:

• Individual counseling
• Group therapy
• Family therapy
• Relapse prevention education
• Mental health support
• Life skills development

You can go to a PHP rehab program after you're done with an inpatient treatment. Adjusting to your normal life in Pittsburgh feels easier this way.

Is PHP Treatment Effective?

Yes. Being around people who support you and having the opportunity to keep up with the activities you love will make you happy. These things are important even for people dealing with mental health issues.

You have the chance to start practicing all the things you learn in your life immediately. When you participate in your treatment, your recovery may feel smoother.

Let the experts know if you come across new triggers. Celebrating the progress you're making and updating your loved ones about what you're learning can be motivating.

How a Partial Hospitalization Program Fits Between Rehab and Weekly Therapy

If you go to rehab today, the experts will use the guidelines given by the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) to figure out the kind of help you need.

Being at a level 2 on the ASAM levels of care qualifies you for PHP. Once you know how PHP fits into all the other efforts you're putting in, you'll see why it might actually be a good option for you.

Get More Structure Than What Weekly Therapy Offers

A lot of therapists or counselors will see you once a week. The sessions might not feel enough if you need ongoing support.

Early stages of recovery are tough because you still haven't mastered how to avoid triggers or deal with them better. You're in a better position to cope with these things after joining a PHP addiction recovery program:

• The risk of relapsing when going through a rough time
• Mental health challenges
• Strong cravings

When you're checking into PHP in the morning, you can share any updates with the staff. Avoid waiting all week to talk to someone who understands what you're going through. Sharing your concerns early helps you know what to do about them instead of feeling stuck.

PHP Is Less Restrictive Than Inpatient Rehab

It's sometimes a good idea to have a sense of independence as you're recovering. Addiction and mental health issues make many people feel like their lives are getting out of control. PHP helps you:

• Practice healthy routines
• Strengthen your bonds with loved ones
• Figure out which recovery skills are better for you

Having freedom may empower you to keep pushing. Consider signing up for an intensive outpatient program once you're done with PHP. It allows you to keep seeing a professional as you start adjusting to having more time for your everyday routine.

Support Your Transition After Residential Care

Once you leave rehab, you'll feel great, and you can also start wondering what will happen when you no longer have professionals to guide you all the time. Your transition will be easier if you still have some of that support.

Facing abrupt changes in your life makes you more likely to relapse. You'll likely find the PHP treatment at Inner Voyage Recovery helpful in coping with triggers after leaving inpatient care.

Even if you might be feeling confident about the skills you learned and how you're doing mentally after rehab, it doesn't hurt to have the extra support. It's much better than putting yourself at relapse risk.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does a Partial Hospitalization Program Last?

It depends. Let professionals advise you on how long you need to be in PHP. Don't just follow what other people dealing with an issue similar to yours are doing. Your timeline will be unique because of:

• The treatment goals
• Your needs
• The kind of mental health issues you're dealing with

Stop comparing your recovery journey to that of someone else. It's okay to be inspired, but keep in mind your situation may not be the same. Giving yourself a fixed schedule will only make you feel pressured.

Can I Work While Attending PHP?

Sometimes yes. The schedule for a PHP may overlap with your current working hours. Employers are sometimes willing to reduce their workers' duties as they go through the treatment.

Having a part-time job may do you some good if you're passionate about what you do. Think of the program as an investment to help you have a stable career in the long run.

Is PHP Only for Addiction Treatment?

No. It's a good idea to consider PHP if you have:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Substance use might also be the reason you're dealing with such issues. Drug use sometimes worsens or triggers them. Professionals also recommend PHP when addiction and mental health issues occur together.

Prioritizing Your Wellness With PHP

Coping with the stress you come across in your everyday life feels easier when you're in a partial hospitalization program. Professionals teach you how to manage addictions, and you'll also feel motivated by your peers. Trying to get back to normal life after rehab is intimidating for some people.

Keep getting the support you need afterward. PHP lets you balance your normal routine with treatment. Read more tips on addiction recovery and managing mental health issues on our news.

This article was prepared by an independent contributor and helps us continue to deliver quality news and information.