Mental health issues are a complex and pervasive concern that can impact individuals of all ages, without discrimination. While it is crucial to address these issues promptly regardless of the individual’s age, the importance of early intervention is particularly emphasized when it comes to adolescents. 

By addressing mental health concerns in adolescence at the earliest possible stage, the likelihood of preventing these issues from escalating and becoming more severe in the future is increased.

In some cases where adolescents require intensive treatment and support, inpatient mental health programs may be considered as a viable option to provide the necessary level of care. If as a parent or caregiver you are exploring the possibility of enrolling your child in an adolescent inpatient mental health program, it is important to understand what to expect from such programs in order to make an informed decision that best suits the needs of your child.

Inpatient Adolescent Treatment Components

Inpatient adolescent mental health treatment components typically include some combination of the following. Some kind of assessment, regular therapy (both individual and group sessions), medication management, education and skill building, family involvement and discharge planning with aftercare recommendations. Certain programs may have more components, but these are a representation of the general standard.

Assessment and Evaluation

Before your child begins their inpatient program, they will undergo a thorough assessment and evaluation. This is to determine the severity of their mental health issues and to create a personalized treatment plan. The assessment may include interviews with your child, as well as with you and other family members. It may also involve psychological testing and a review of your child’s medical history. 

One of the terms that you might encounter during this process is an ACE score. The ACE test evaluations adverse childhood experiences (ACE) and their effect on development and well being.

Individual and Group Therapy

One of the main components of inpatient mental health programs is therapy. Your child will have access to both individual and group therapy sessions. Individual therapy allows your child to work one-on-one with a therapist to address their specific needs and concerns. 

Group therapy, on the other hand, allows your child to interact with peers who are going through similar experiences. Group therapy for adolescents can be especially impactful during treatment, as it can provide a sense of support and understanding for your child, give them a healthy outlet to be heard and expose themselves to other people’s stories.

Medication Management

In some cases, medication may be necessary to help manage your child’s mental health issues. In an inpatient program, your child will have access to a team of medical professionals who will monitor their medication and make any necessary adjustments. This is important as medication can have different effects on adolescents compared to adults, and close monitoring is necessary to ensure its effectiveness and safety.

Education and Skill Building

In addition to receiving therapy and medication management, inpatient mental health programs place a strong emphasis on providing education and skill-building opportunities for patients. Through access to various educational resources and engaging activities, children are given the tools they need to deepen their understanding of their mental health issues and develop effective coping mechanisms. 

Furthermore, they are encouraged to participate in skill-building exercises, such as art therapy, music therapy and mindfulness activities, which can further enhance their emotional and psychological well-being.

Family Involvement

Inpatient mental health programs place a strong emphasis on involving family members in the treatment process to ensure the best possible outcomes for the child. One way in which family members are included is through family therapy sessions, where both the child and their parents can actively participate in working towards improving communication and understanding any underlying family dynamics that may be impacting the child’s mental health.

By addressing these issues collaboratively, the entire family unit can learn how to better support the child’s recovery and overall well-being. Additionally, family involvement during the child’s time in the inpatient program can help lay the foundation for a supportive and understanding environment once the child returns home, which can be crucial in maintaining the progress made during treatment.

Discharge and Aftercare Planning for Adolescents in Inpatient Care

As your child’s inpatient program nears its conclusion, the dedicated treatment team will collaborate with you and your child to formulate a comprehensive aftercare plan. This personalized plan may encompass a variety of components, such as follow-up recommendations for ongoing therapy sessions to ensure continued progress, diligent medication management to maintain stability and suggestions for participation in support groups to foster a sense of community. 

It is crucial to stay vigilant in monitoring your child’s mental health post-discharge and promptly seek additional support or interventions if any signs of distress or setbacks arise, in order to promote their ongoing wellness and growth.

Finding the Right Treatment for Your Teen

Parents want their children to feel safe and cared for, regardless of whether they’re at home or not. The professionals at Old Vineyard strive to create a nurturing environment for adolescents in vulnerable states. The adolescent inpatient program at Old Vineyard is designed to help address the root of trauma and provide life-long coping skills. To get started, call 855-607-5920 or fill out an assessment online.

Old Vineyard Behavioral Health Services

Old Vineyard Behavioral Health Services is a treatment center that provides compassionate inpatient and outpatient treatment to help those achieve meaningful mental health and wellness. We treat a variety of behavioral health disorders including trauma, depression, mood disorders and more.

Our team of dedicated staff pride themselves on creating a safe and welcoming environment for all of our patients and their loved ones. Some of our services include our treatment, specialty and outpatient programs. Located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, we provide a beautiful, campus-like atmosphere.

To schedule a consultation with us or for more information, please call 855-602-5920.