Did you know that 7.7 million adults have co-occurring mental health and substance abuse disorders? However, 52.5 percent of these people never receive psychiatric care or substance abuse treatment. Treatments can make a big difference in your life, whether you’re diagnosed with a mental health disorder or substance abuse disorder. Are you ready to get the care you need? Or are you looking for information for a loved one? Find the information you need about psychiatric care and dual diagnosis here.
What Is Psychiatric Care?
Psychiatric care is a type of mental health care that focuses on diagnosing and treating mental illness. Care can be provided in various inpatient, outpatient, and residential settings. Psychiatric treatment can involve a variety of different professionals, for example, psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers.
Psychiatric care can treat conditions such as:
- Anxiety disorders
- Depression
- Bipolar disorder
- Schizophrenia
- Eating disorders
Treatment may involve medication, therapy, or a combination of both. Medication can be used to help manage symptoms and improve mood. Therapy can help patients understand their illnesses and develop coping skills.
The Different Types of Psychiatric Care
Psychiatric care can take many forms, depending on the needs of the individual. A trained professional can help determine the appropriate for your condition.
Inpatient Psychiatric Care
Inpatient psychiatric care is when a person is admitted to a hospital or other inpatient facility for treatment. This type of care is usually for more serious mental health conditions. Individuals attending inpatient care require around-the-clock supervision and care.
Outpatient Psychiatric Care
Outpatient psychiatric treatment is when a person sees a mental health provider regularly; however, they don’t stay overnight in a hospital or other facility. People can experience outpatient care in various settings, including private practices, community mental health centers, and hospitals.
Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs)
A partial hospitalization program (PHP) is an intensive outpatient program. This type of program provides more care than traditional outpatient therapy. PHPs typically involve group and individual therapy sessions several times per week. In addition, there are other activities such as:
- Recreation therapy
- Medication management
- Skill-building workshops
Residential Treatment Centers (RTCs)
A residential treatment center (RTC) is a live-in facility that provides 24-hour care for people with mental illness. RTCs typically offer comprehensive treatment, including:
- Individual and group therapy
- Medication management
- Skills training
- Recreation
Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Dual diagnosis treatment is a type of psychiatric care that helps people with mental health conditions and substance abuse problems. Mental health and substance abuse are often intertwined, and both illnesses must be treated for a patient to recover. While this type of treatment can be very effective, finding an experienced provider to treat both conditions is crucial.
The Benefits of Psychiatric Care
Psychiatric care can provide many benefits for those experiencing mental illness. Psychiatric treatment can help improve symptoms, provide support and education, and promote recovery.
Can Help Improve Symptoms
Mental illness can be extremely debilitating, making it difficult to function in everyday life. However, with proper treatment, many people with mental illness can significantly improve their symptoms and live relatively normal lives.
Provide Support and Education
For many people with mental illness, psychiatric care is not just about improving symptoms. Instead, it’s also about providing support and education. Mental health professionals can educate patients and families on the nature of mental illness and how to cope best. They can also offer guidance on how to manage medications and other treatments.
Promote Recovery
Recovery from mental illness is possible. Psychiatric care plays a vital role in helping people achieve recovery. Mental health professionals can help individuals develop the following:
- Coping skills
- Build social support systems
- Find purpose in life again
How to Find the Right Psychiatric Care Provider
One of the most critical aspects of finding the right psychiatric care provider is making sure that they are someone you feel comfortable sharing with and being around. It is also important to find a provider who is experienced in treating specific mental health conditions that you or your loved one are experiencing.
Make Sure You Feel Comfortable Talking to the Provider
You must openly discuss your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without feeling judged or misunderstood. Treatment is about being open and honest, and having a good rapport with a care provider is essential.
Find an Experienced Provider
Experience matters, especially if you’re looking for someone who can provide dual diagnosis treatment. This will ensure that they are familiar with the latest research and treatment options available for your particular condition.
Ask Questions
Ask about the providers’ treatment philosophy and approach to help you determine if their methods are aligned with your personal beliefs and values. In addition, inquire about the types of therapies and treatments offered by the provider. This understanding will help you gauge whether their services are helpful for your particular situation.
Get Recommendations
Reach out to trusted sources such as family members, friends, or your primary care physician for recommendations. These individuals can provide valuable insights into which providers may be right for you based on their experiences. In addition, be sure to ask the providers themselves for referrals because this can help you get an idea of the type of patients they typically treat.
Find the Right Provider for Your Needs
Psychiatric care is a vital but often misunderstood component of our healthcare system. If you or someone you know needs psychiatric care, don’t hesitate to contact a professional for help. Are you looking for treatment in southern Florida? Connect with Comprehensive Wellness Centers today to get the care you need.
