People who are in the intermediate severity of the mental illness spectrum often seek residential treatment programs. These programs usually provide an appropriate level of support and evaluation usually with around 7-10 maximum capacity. Patient could either be on the transitional stage from an inpatient treatment program to community living environment with persisting serious mental illness, or people who may be in need of more help than outpatients.
Duration of residential treatment can range from six months to a year or two. During this time, patients can feel at ease to receive individualized and structured programs that empowers and equips them with the necessary skills to return back to the community. Observations and counselling are done in a friendly and warm environment akin to how it normally would be in the community. Patients are encouraged to participate in activities that improve their independence levels. Residential medical staff uses a relationship-based approach to teach the appropriate social skills, problem-solving skills, relationship skills and other skills to become self-sustaining or self-independent when they return back to the community after treatment. Support is given by a multidisciplinary team of health professionals, including but not limited to registered nurses, recreation therapist, occupational therapist, psychiatrists and many other personnel. They are available 24/7 to support and assist patients on their road to recovery.
Patients often struggle to remain in control of their emotions and cope with behavioral challenges in addition to mental disorders so family and friends are encouraged by the medical staff to show their support for the patient by participating in family counseling or therapy sessions, which has been proven to hasten a patient’s recovery.
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Posted on November 20, 2017
