If you or a loved one are struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, enrolling in a partial hospitalization program (PHP) may be the right step for you. Patients enrolled in this type of program receive intensive, consistent care at a substance abuse facility. Seeking professional help is essential. Treatment options like PHP can assist patients in recovering from addiction and avoiding serious health consequences.
First, let’s define PHP. These programs are drug and alcohol treatment programs that provide full-time care in a substance abuse facility. During a program, patients receive intensive, individualized care from medical and mental health professionals. To enroll in one, you’ll need to meet certain criteria. Most PHP programs require that patients have completed detox and can engage in daily activities. Additionally, patients must be willing to devote a certain number of hours each day to the program. Some things you should know about enrolling in a program include understanding the program in more detail, distinguishing between it and an inpatient program, and getting a realistic understanding of what to expect from treatment.
What is a Partial Hospitalization Program?
A partial hospitalization program (PHP) allows people with drug and alcohol addiction to receive treatment at home while still living at home. A program of this type is usually more intensive than outpatient care but does not require the individual to stay overnight in a facility. Partial hospitalization involves a patient coming to a treatment center each day for several hours of care.
Inpatient treatment can be a great option for those who need more intensity than outpatient care but aren’t quite ready or able to commit to inpatient treatment. It can also be a good step-down option for people who have completed an inpatient program and are not yet ready to return to their everyday lives.
The Difference Between PHP and Inpatient Hospitalization
PHP does not replace inpatient care. Partially hospitalizing a patient can shorten their stay if they need full hospital care or serve as a transition from inpatient to outpatient care for some patients. Medical supervision is usually required in drug and alcohol addiction treatment programs.
PHP provides more intensive supervision than outpatient care, but not as intensive as inpatient care. The most intensive form of treatment for people with drug and alcohol addiction is inpatient hospitalization. Typically, it is reserved for patients who pose a danger to themselves or others, or who need close medical supervision. Patients undergoing inpatient hospitalization typically remain in the hospital for several weeks or months at a time.
What You Can You Expect from PHP
PHP may be a good option for you or someone you know who suffers from drug or alcohol addiction. Essentially, it gives patients the structure and support they need to recover. Typically, these programs involve 3-5 hours of programming per day, 5-7 days per week. Therapy may include individual and group sessions, medication management, and other evidence-based approaches.
In PHP, a typical day consists of individual and group therapy, psychoeducation, and skill-building practice. Each of these activities is conducted by a licensed mental health professional. If needed, a staff psychiatrist will manage your medication. This program can be an effective treatment for drug and alcohol addictions, but it is not for everyone. A doctor or mental health professional should be consulted before deciding whether enrolling in such a program is right for you.
To summarize, a PHP is a specially designed type of program that can be an effective treatment option for those who are unable to commit to inpatient treatment or who need a step down from inpatient treatment. It’s not for everyone, and you must meet a certain criterion to see if it’s the right approach for you. If you are struggling with addiction or know someone who is, please seek help. There is hope of recovery. We can help if you’re interested in learning more about partial hospitalization or if you have other questions about drug and alcohol treatment options. Call us at 855-936-4435, and one of our experts can help you get started on your recovery journey.
