When it comes to your mental health, choosing the right level of care is one of the most crucial decisions you can make. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or a loved one, understanding the options available and knowing which one is the best fit can feel overwhelming. You might wonder, “What if I choose the wrong level of care? Will I get better?” These concerns are completely normal, and it’s essential to address them to ensure you get the support you need.

What are Your Options?

In the US, mental health care is not one-size-fits-all. Multiple levels of care for mental health are available, each designed to meet different needs depending on the severity of symptoms and the level of support required. These levels range from the most intensive, such as inpatient hospitalization, to the least intensive, like outpatient therapy. 

1. Inpatient Hospitalization: Inpatient hospitalization is the highest level of care. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger of harming themselves or others, this is where you would go. Inpatient care provides 24/7 monitoring and support in a secure environment to ensure safety and stabilize symptoms.
2. Residential Treatment: If you’re struggling with significant mental health issues but aren’t in immediate danger, residential treatment might be the best option. This level of care allows you to live in a treatment facility for an extended period, usually 30-90 days or more, depending on your needs. In residential treatment, you’ll receive intensive therapy in a structured and supportive environment, including individual and group sessions.
3. Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP): After an inpatient stay or residential treatment, a Partial Hospitalization Program can offer continued support as you transition back to your daily life. PHP is less intensive than residential care but still provides several hours of therapy each day, typically 5 to 7 days a week. It’s ideal if you need more than outpatient care but don’t require 24-hour supervision.
4. Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): If you’re looking for a balance between maintaining your daily routine and getting significant mental health support, an Intensive Outpatient Program might be the right choice. IOP usually involves attending therapy sessions a few times a week, for a few hours each session.
5. Outpatient Therapy: Outpatient therapy is the most common and least intensive level of care. It involves meeting with a therapist or psychiatrist once a week (or more frequently, if needed) for individual or group therapy sessions.

How to Determine the Right Level of Care

Now that you know the options, how do you determine which level of care is right for you? Here are some key considerations to guide your decision:

1. Assess the Severity of Your Symptoms: Start by honestly evaluating your symptoms. If your symptoms are severe or escalating, it’s crucial to seek a higher level of care, such as inpatient hospitalization or residential treatment.
2. Consider Your Daily Functioning: Consider how your mental health affects your ability to function in everyday life. A more intensive program like PHP or IOP is necessary if it interferes significantly with your daily life.
3. Evaluate Your Support System: What kind of support do you have at home? If you have a strong family and friend support network, you can manage with outpatient therapy or IOP. However, if you feel isolated or don’t have much support, a higher level of care surrounded by professionals can be more beneficial.
4. Think About Your Long-Term Goals: What are your goals for your mental health? For instance, residential treatment could be ideal if you want to work on deep-seated issues in a structured environment. IOP can be more appropriate if you’re looking to manage symptoms while maintaining a job or school schedule.
5. Seek Professional Guidance: Don’t try to make this decision alone. Consult with a mental health professional who can assess your situation and recommend the best level of care. Sometimes, what you think you need and what you need can differ.

Final Thoughts: Remember, It’s Okay to Change Levels of Care

Choosing the right level of care is not a one-time decision. Your needs can change as you progress in your treatment. For example, you can start with outpatient therapy and then realize you need the additional support of an IOP or PHP. Or, you might begin in a residential program and step down to outpatient care as you stabilize. The journey to mental wellness is personal and unique to each individual. It’s okay to feel uncertain or even scared about choosing the right level of care.