What’s the Difference Between Inpatient vs. Outpatient Treatment for Mental Health?

Choosing between inpatient mental health treatment and outpatient mental health treatment is a significant decision for those dealing with mental health disorders. Each treatment option offers its own benefits and caters to various needs, depending on the severity of the person’s condition, their support network, and their personal preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the differences between inpatient vs outpatient mental health treatment and the factors to consider when deciding on a treatment option. 

What is inpatient mental health treatment?

Inpatient mental health treatment involves staying at a mental healthcare facility or a hospital for a set period of time. This could range from a few days to several months, depending on a patient’s needs. Inpatient services are usually recommended for people who are experiencing severe mental health concerns, including those who may be at risk of harming themselves or others. The inpatient setting offers a nurturing space for people to gain insight into their conditions and develop effective coping strategies to assist them in beginning their healing process.  

Benefits of inpatient mental health treatment

The safe and supportive environment of an inpatient program provides a highly structured schedule that includes activities such as art or music therapy and mindfulness practices like meditation, as well as group therapy, family therapy, and individual therapy designed for each patient. Commonly used therapeutic interventions for inpatient therapy include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), equipping patients with the skills, tools, and support needed to maintain their mental health once they leave the treatment facility. Furthermore, medical care with access to a psychiatrist is readily available to prescribe and make medication adjustments as needed. 

When to choose inpatient mental health treatment

Inpatient treatment services are most suitable for people in acute mental health crises, such as those with severe depression, suicidal ideation, or psychosis. It is also recommended for those who have not responded to outpatient treatment, including a partial hospitalization program (PHP) and intensive outpatient program (IOP) or those who need detoxification from substances. People with co-occurring disorders such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and other mood disorders may also benefit from the comprehensive care provided in an inpatient treatment setting.

What is outpatient mental health treatment?

Outpatient mental health treatment allows people to receive mental health services while continuing to live at home and manage their daily routines. This treatment option is ideal for those who require ongoing regular support but don’t need the intensive level of care provided in an inpatient setting. Outpatient treatment is more flexible than inpatient treatment and can vary in intensity, making it a suitable option for a range of mental health disorders from mild to moderate severity and for those transitioning from inpatient care. 

Benefits of outpatient mental health treatment

Outpatient mental health treatment is often utilized as a step-down program from inpatient treatment by means of a PHP or an IOP. Scheduled outpatient therapy sessions, which can include individual therapy, group therapy, or family therapy, are typically held weekly or bi-weekly. Other community mental health resources, such as support groups, are available to help form a sense of belonging with others in outpatient treatment. Additionally, medication management is conducted with periodic check-ins for those who need it rather than the continuous supervision provided in an inpatient program. 

When to choose outpatient mental health treatment

Outpatient treatment works best for people with less severe mental health concerns, such as mild to moderate cases of anxiety, depression, or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). People who have a stable living environment and a strong support network are well-suited for outpatient services. This treatment option is particularly beneficial for those who are capable of self-managing their mental health disorder and are motivated to continue therapy after completing an inpatient stay. 

Key differences between inpatient vs outpatient mental health treatment

Knowing which treatment option best suits a person’s specific mental health needs is a determining factor when it comes to choosing between inpatient mental health treatment and outpatient mental health treatment. Here are four key differences in each option’s approach toward recovery.

1. Intensity of care

Inpatient treatment for mental health provides a high level of intensity, offering round-the-clock care that ensures immediate access to medical and psychological support, and a safe, controlled environment for patients to stabilize. Outpatient mental health treatment, on the other hand, offers less intensive support, making it suitable for those who need regular but less frequent interventions, while still continuing their daily routines.

2. Environment and setting

The environment at an inpatient treatment facility setting is highly structured, often resembling a hospital, to minimize triggers and ensure safety, particularly for patients at risk of harming themselves or those around them. Outpatient care settings allow patients to receive treatment in a more familiar, real-world environment, where they can practice coping skills and apply what they learn in therapy directly to their daily lives.

3. Cost considerations

Inpatient mental health treatment programs tend to be more expensive due to the comprehensive services they provide, including room and boarding services, 24/7 staffing of nurses, psychiatrists, and other support staff, and intensive therapy sessions that require more resources and time from mental healthcare professionals. Outpatient mental health treatment, however, is generally more affordable without the need for constant supervision and less frequent therapy sessions. Additionally, outpatient care is often covered more extensively by insurance, making it a more accessible option for many people.

4. Impact on daily life

Inpatient mental health treatment requires patients to take a temporary break from their daily responsibilities, such as work, school, or family duties, to focus entirely on their recovery in a safe and effective manner. While still emphasizing focus on recovery, outpatient mental health care allows people to continue their daily activities while receiving treatment, offering greater flexibility and less disruption to their lives.

Factors to consider when choosing between inpatient vs outpatient treatment for mental health 

Deciding between inpatient treatment for mental health and outpatient treatment for mental health depends on various personal, medical, and logistical factors for each patient. Here are some important considerations to take into account when deciding which treatment option is right. 

1. Support system availability

A strong support system of family, friends, or a community who are involved in and compassionate toward a person’s treatment can significantly impact the effectiveness of outpatient mental health treatment. For those with limited support and means of managing their mental health treatment on their own, inpatient treatment might provide the necessary structure and supervision needed to aid in their recovery.

2. Personal preferences and comfort level

Some people may prefer the structured environment that inpatient treatment offers, with the consistent routines, continuous support, and full-time availability to healthcare professionals creating a sense of safety and security, allowing them to focus solely on recovery without the distractions or triggers of daily life. Conversely, other people might thrive in the more flexible and familiar setting of outpatient mental health treatment, where they can maintain their daily routines while receiving treatment.

3. Financial and insurance considerations

Cost is a crucial factor for many people when choosing between an inpatient treatment program and outpatient mental health treatment. It is necessary to understand the coverage provided by insurance plans, potential out-of-pocket costs, and the availability of financial aid or sliding-scale payment options depending on the patient’s situation.

4. Location and accessibility of treatment programs

The proximity of treatment centers and the availability of specialized programs, such as trauma-focused therapy, can influence a person’s decision when choosing between inpatient mental health treatment and outpatient mental health treatment. For outpatient programs where patients are required to attend therapy sessions and appointments regularly, accessibility becomes a critical factor. The burden of frequent travel can add stress, reduce consistency in attending sessions, and ultimately affect the success of treatment. 

Similarly to outpatient treatment, family involvement and support play roles in recovery for patients at an inpatient facility, and having a treatment center close to home allows loved ones to participate in family therapy sessions and visit regularly, contributing to recovery motivation. Moreover, being close to home reduces the sense of isolation that can come from being in an unfamiliar environment for an extended period of time.

How Charlie Health can help

If you or a loved one are struggling with a mental health condition, Charlie Health is here to help. Charlie Health’s virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) provides more than once-weekly mental health treatment for dealing with serious mental health conditions. Our expert clinicians incorporate evidence-based therapies into group sessions, individual counseling, and family therapy. With treatment, managing your mental health is possible. Fill out the form below or give us a call to start healing today.