Depression is a condition that affects numerous individuals in the United States, with about 1 in 5 people getting diagnosed with it. The problem is that only about 61% of patients receive treatment for this problem, mainly because they do not want to be institutionalized.
Intensive outpatient therapy has proven to be a good solution for this, as it offers treatment while allowing the patients to carry on with their lives. If you or a loved one is struggling with depression, this article will offer details on how intensive outpatient therapy can help you with depression.
What Is Intensive Outpatient Therapy?
Intensive outpatient programs (IOP) stand somewhere in the middle of an inpatient mental hospital and traditional therapy. While you don’t have to commit to staying in a hospital during that time, you will get more help than you would in regular therapy. It’s very structured, but not as much that you’ll be required to be there every day.
With this kind of outpatient treatment, you’ll have to meet 3-5 days a week with your therapist, where you’ll receive therapy for 3-4 hours a day. Most participants can go to school or work full-time while they are in therapy. It is also a great option for those who left an inpatient center and are trying to adjust to the “real world” again.
Intensive outpatient therapy can be provided individually in individual or group settings. It aims to help people continue their recovery while preventing them from slipping into old patterns. It is a great choice for people who have already gone through the worst of their depression episodes but still need the support of those who understand them.
How Intensive Outpatient Therapy Treats Your Depression
IOP usually has one goal: to provide every tool you need in your battle against depression while maintaining a holistic approach. It offers all the benefits of inpatient therapy and allows you to sleep at home, in your own bed. Here is what IOP often entails:
- Evaluation
Each person’s depression is manifested differently, which is why evaluation is a necessary first step. At this stage, your symptoms will be pinpointed so that the right personalized treatment is chosen as well. This stage is important for the doctor-patient bond, allowing them to actually know you.
- Orientation
Before going through therapy, most patients will participate in initial therapy sessions with their therapist. This should help familiarize the patient with how the talk therapy will go, making the transition easier for them.
- Individual Therapy
Individual sessions are usually the first type of treatment offered during intensive outpatient therapy. Here, you will be talking face-to-face with your primary therapist about the things that are troubling you. You will also receive all the tools and strategies necessary to cope with all the challenges coming your way.
- Group Therapy
Aside from individual therapy, patients may also sign up for group therapy. Group therapy has proven very efficient because it can offer a sense of purpose and belonging. Patients will learn that they are not alone in this, reducing their symptoms and instilling a feeling of hope.
- Medical Management (Optional)
Not everyone needs medical treatment for treating depression, but should you need it, IPO can offer it. Dosages are often received during therapy hours, and the specialist can alter the treatment based on your needs.
Benefits of Intensive Outpatient Therapy
There are various benefits that come with intensive outpatient therapy. The most important ones are:
- Comfortable Environment: Intensive outpatient treatments allow patients to spend most of their time in an environment they are comfortable with – their home. This should reduce the stress of being admitted.
- Tailored Treatment Program: Patients can set up treatments based on their availability and needs. No two treatments are the same.
- Continuity: Many patients still struggle with depression even after finishing inpatient treatments. IPO can offer continuity so that you don’t slip back into old habits.
Intensive outpatient programs offer patients the ability to cope with depression while going on with their lives. This is a good option for those who notice the symptoms but do not want to be admitted to the hospital.
The Bottom Line
Intensive outpatient therapy can offer you the tools necessary to cope with depression without cutting you from the real world. This should make things more comfortable for you and make your recovery much smoother. You will receive the intensive treatment that you need, but at the end of the day, you’ll be in the comfort of your home.
