The idea of an inpatient mental health stay can be incredibly daunting.When your only experience with these facilities comes from TV and movies, you might envision straightjackets or fluorescent-lit cots. The truth about inpatient mental health care is that, in the right facility, you’ll find comfortable amenities, committed caregivers, and a simple daily structure. Done right, inpatient mental health care can feel more like a relaxing vacation than a hospital stay.
While not every program is the same, there are some core features that most well-conceived programs include. These features are meant to provide safety, support, and a healing environment to bring out the best in each person. If you’re considering a program that doesn’t have these features, it might be a red flag to look elsewhere. Here are some of the fundamental features of well-rounded inpatient mental health care.
1. Room and Board
Many facilities that offer inpatient treatment for substance abuse or mental health care are set up more like a bed and breakfast than a hospital. There are comfortable dorm rooms (with real beds), private or semi-private bathrooms, and common areas for socializing and relaxing. You’ll find couches, TVs, and a living room or kitchen for chatting and sipping tea or coffee. Often, there’s also a secure outdoor space where individuals or groups can relax or do activities in nature.
One feature that many residents love about inpatient mental health care is that meals are typically prepared and served by the staff. This takes the burden off patients to manage basic care tasks like cooking and cleaning while they’re focused on their healing. Instead of the stress of deciding what to shop for and prepare, patients get nutritious meals taken care of for them. While flavor and quality can vary, most centers emphasize a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables.
2. Structure, Structure, Structure
For people struggling to cope with mental health symptoms, too much downtime can be a nightmare. Left too long to its own devices, the brain tends toward rumination, negative thought spirals, and self-destructive behaviors. That’s why inpatient (and outpatient) mental health care programs are all about routine, structure, and scheduling. While there is some free time to rest, eat, and chat with other participants, most hours are filled with therapy, meals, and activities.
A typical day in inpatient mental health care might look something like the following: The day starts with a shower and breakfast, followed by group or individual therapy, or both. After lunch, you might meet with the provider who manages your medication, or a case coordinator who helps you make a post-treatment plan. Or you might participate in some activities, like yoga class or meditation. After dinner, there might be another group activity or movie before lights out.
3. Safety First
Safety is an extremely important part of inpatient mental health care. While safety measures can occasionally seem a little intense, they’re often necessary to protect patients. In general, staff members supervise patients at all times, except when they’re in the bathroom. There are physical safety features in place, like doors that don’t lock, windows that stay locked, and furniture designed to prevent self-harm. Items that could be dangerous (like sharp objects) are restricted.
Staff will also monitor patients to make sure they’re taking their medications correctly (not hoarding, sharing, or overdosing). They also make sure that no one enters or exits the facility if not authorized to do so. In conjunction with healthcare providers, most patients make a safety plan for themselves, or have one made for them. Staff are trained to spot and prevent potential crises, or handle emergencies when and if they do happen.
4. A Multifaceted Treatment Approach
Speaking of activities, the most effective treatment programs feature a wide range of different treatments and programs. It’s not just about therapy or meds; attendees participate in all sorts of support groups, skill-building sessions, and wellness practices. It’s not uncommon for an inpatient program to offer alternative therapies like art therapy, dance, or equine therapy. A holistic approach can provide patients with the best chance of success and long-term healing.
That said, treatment does typically start with some basic therapeutic foundations. For people with comorbid substance use disorders, there will typically be a detox period to start off. From there, individuals will receive a mix of individualized therapy, medication, and group support. Each treatment plan will depend on the individual’s diagnosis, symptoms, and medical history. However, all patients will have many chances to share their experiences and learn coping skills.
5. Post-Stay Planning
One of the most overwhelming aspects of inpatient mental health care is, ironically, leaving. Many patients come to welcome the routine and predictability of inpatient care, and managing life outside can feel intimidating. This is especially true for patients who lack housing, employment, or financial resources. That’s why, toward the end of their stay, each patient works with their care team — and often friends and family — to create a discharge plan.
The first step in post-stay planning ideally involves making arrangements for housing and work, if applicable. Then, the patient and providers determine how the patient will manage their symptoms once inpatient care ends. For example, the care team might work with the patient to determine who they’ll see for therapy or prescription management. They’ll also establish a post-stay safety plan including emergency contacts, crisis centers, hotlines, and support groups.
Toward a Brighter Future
As you can see, modern inpatient mental health care is very different from the picture Hollywood often paints. It feels less like confinement, and more like an opportunity to reach a deeper level of rest and self-care. It’s a place to manage your symptoms, learn from others, and build new coping skills in a safe environment. Many people find their inpatient mental health stay to be a truly transformative, life-affirming experience.