Counselling session
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When you’re struggling with substance abuse, life is difficult.

But when you struggle with substance abuse and a significant mental illness, life can become almost unbearable.

And “almost unbearable” is only for the lucky ones.

I had what mental health professionals like to call a “co occurring substance use and mental health disorder.”

I had what I called “a mess.”

Five years ago, I was convinced that my life was over. I saw no way to clean it up.

To be honest, I’m not even sure I wanted to.

But everything changed when I was introduced to the partial hospitalization program at Better Days.

 

What is a Partial Hospitalization Program?

Partial hospitalization programs are a comprehensive and structured form of an intensive outpatient program (IOP Program) designed to address the needs of individuals struggling with substance use disorders and mental health conditions.

They also serve as an intermediate level of care, providing intensive treatment and support for someone who was struggling the way I was, while also allowing someone the chance to be able to return home at the end of each day.

Partial hospitalization services are very similar to those that are offered in inpatient treatment.

A doctor and patient talking over a medical sheet.

While I was receiving partial hospital care I attended treatment sessions at the Better Days treatment facility for several hours a day and usually for five days a week (though I attended more hours and more days when I was just starting and still in the highly active treatment phase.)

From group therapy to individual therapy my typical day was run as a very structured IOP program.

I learned a variety of therapeutic techniques that helped me understand my relationship to drugs and alcohol and how my mental health contributed to my substance use and vice versa.

I also spent time with other patients while in the facility and learned that the struggle is real…that I wasn’t alone in my fight for my life back. These people became a support system that I still rely on today when my demons start trying to come back.

These people became my support system that still knows the right things to do and say to help me overcome those demons and prevent relapse from ever happening again.

 

What are the Benefits of a Partial Hospitalization Program?

I don’t think my journey to true freedom and recovery from substance use disorders and mental health challenges would have brought me to where I am today if it wasn’t for the partial hospitalization program at Better Days.

Here are some of the significant advantages I experienced:

Comprehensive Treatment: Better Days provides a holistic and integrated approach to treatment, addressing both substance abuse and underlying mental health issues. This comprehensive approach allowed me to receive the necessary support for my dual diagnosis, ensuring that all aspects of my well-being were addressed.

Structured Environment: The structured nature of Better Days provided me with a sense of stability and routine, which was crucial for my recovery. Having a consistent schedule of therapy sessions, group activities, and other treatment modalities helped me stay focused and motivated on my path to healing.

 

Someone filling out what is presumably a medical sheet.

Intensive Support: The intensive nature of Better Days meant that I had access to regular and frequent therapy sessions and counseling. The consistent support from the excellent and highly knowledgeable team of healthcare professionals was invaluable in helping me navigate the challenges of addiction and mental health, providing guidance, encouragement, and expertise throughout my journey.

Flexibility and Independence: Unlike inpatient programs, Better Days allowed me the flexibility to return home or to a supportive living environment outside of treatment hours. This flexibility empowered me to apply the skills and coping strategies I learned in treatment to real-life situations while still having a safety net of support when needed.

Peer Support and Community: Engaging with my community of peers who were going through similar struggles provided me with the sense of belonging and understanding that I truly needed to heal. Connecting with others in group therapy sessions and support groups allowed me to share experiences, gain insights, and build a support network that continues to be a vital part of my recovery.

The partial hospitalization program at Better Days was a transformative experience for me.

Group of people talking at a courtyard, presumably a community support or counseling session.

It offered the ideal balance of structure, intensive support, flexibility, and community, all of which played pivotal roles in my recovery process. The adult partial hospitalization program at Better Days empowered me to gain valuable insights, acquire coping skills, and develop a strong foundation for long-term sobriety and mental well-being.

If you or someone you know are struggling with substance abuse and/or mental health challenges, think about learning more about the partial hospital program at Better Days treatment center.

Located in sunny Southern California, Better Days was able to provide me with exactly what I needed to take back control of my life and learn to value the life I wanted to lead.

Call Better Days today. You are worth the phone call.