Supporting Loved Ones in an Inpatient Program
When a loved one is struggling with mental health issues, it can be a difficult and overwhelming experience for both them and their family. In some cases, it may be necessary for them to seek treatment in an inpatient program. This can be a scary and confusing time for everyone involved, but there are ways to support your loved one during their inpatient stay and beyond.
What is an Inpatient Program?
A mental health inpatient program, also known as inpatient hospitalization or inpatient treatment, is a type of mental health treatment where the patient stays at a hospital or residential facility for a period of time. This type of treatment is typically recommended for individuals who require intensive care and monitoring, or for those who may be a danger to themselves or others.
What is Inpatient Hospitalization?
Inpatient hospitalization offers a structured and supportive environment for individuals to receive treatment for their mental health issues. This may include therapy, medication management and other forms of treatment. The goal of an inpatient program is to stabilize the individual and provide them with the tools and support they need to manage their mental health.
How long is an inpatient mental health stay?
The length of an inpatient stay can vary depending on the individual’s needs and progress. In general, the average length of an inpatient mental health stay is between 5-7 days, but it can range from a few days to several weeks.
During this time, the individual will receive intensive treatment and support from a team of mental health professionals. They will also have access to resources and activities to help them cope with their mental health issues.
How Can You Support Your Loved One During Inpatient Treatment?
Having a loved one in an inpatient mental health program can be a challenging and emotional experience. Here are some ways you can support them during their treatment:
Educate yourself
One of the best ways to support your loved one is to educate yourself about their mental health condition and the treatment they are receiving. This will help you better understand what they are going through and how you can support them.
You can also ask the treatment team for resources or attend family therapy sessions to learn more about your loved one’s condition and how you can help.
Communicate with your loved one
It’s important to maintain open and honest communication with your loved one during their inpatient stay. This can help them feel supported and connected to their loved ones, which can aid in their recovery.
You can send letters, cards or care packages to let them know you are thinking of them. You can also schedule phone calls or video chats to stay in touch and provide emotional support.
Attend family therapy sessions
Many inpatient programs offer family therapy sessions as part of the treatment plan. These sessions can be beneficial for both the patient and their loved ones, as they provide a safe space to discuss any issues or concerns and work on improving communication and relationships.
Attending these sessions can also help you better understand your loved one’s treatment and how you can support them during their recovery.
Take care of yourself
Supporting a loved one in an inpatient program can be emotionally draining, so it’s important to take care of yourself as well. Make sure to prioritize your own mental and physical health by getting enough rest, eating well, and seeking support from friends and family.
What Can You Do After Your Loved One Completes Inpatient Treatment?
After your loved one completes their inpatient treatment, it’s important to continue supporting them as they transition back to their daily life. Here are some ways you can help:
Attend follow-up appointments
After inpatient treatment, your loved one will likely have follow-up appointments with their treatment team. It’s important to attend these appointments with them to show your support and to stay informed about their progress.
You can also ask the treatment team for tips on how you can continue to support your loved one during their recovery.
Encourage healthy habits
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial for managing mental health. Encourage your loved one to continue practicing self-care, such as getting enough sleep, eating well and engaging in activities they enjoy.
You can also offer to participate in these activities with them to provide support and companionship.
Be patient and understanding
Recovery from mental health issues is a journey, and it may take time for your loved one to fully heal. Be patient and understanding with them as they navigate their recovery.
Avoid placing pressure or expectations on them and instead offer your support and understanding. Let them know that you are there for them and that you believe in their ability to overcome their challenges.
Support Your Loved One Now, Not Later
Having a loved one in an inpatient program can be a difficult and emotional experience, but there are ways to support them during their treatment and recovery. By educating yourself, maintaining open communication and taking care of yourself, you can provide the support and love your loved one needs during this challenging time.
Remember to also continue supporting them after their inpatient treatment, as recovery is an ongoing process. With your love and support, your loved one can overcome their mental health challenges and live a fulfilling life.
If your loved one is struggling with mental health issues and is ready to reach out for help, the Behavioral Health team at Valley Hospital may be able to help. Visit us online to learn more and get your loved one the mental health treatment they need, now.
About Valley Hospital
Valley Hospital is a private psychiatric hospital located in Arizona that specializes in mental health and chemical dependency care. We provide a full continuum of care to meet you where you are and help get you where you need to be. Our core principles are outstanding care, compassionate people and unparalleled services.
We provide a wide range of services with evidence-based treatment methods. These methods have been proven to have positive outcomes for our patients. Some of these services include inpatient, outpatient, women’s mental health program and more. We combine the best clinical techniques with state-of-the-art medical care to create the greatest potential for lasting recovery.
To schedule a no-cost assessment or for more information, please call our main number at 602-926-7904.
