If you’re like most people, you’ve probably been to the doctor for the flu or an illness such as chicken pox. During your visit, the doctor may have prescribed medications and sent you home with a treatment plan and a follow-up appointment. You trust the process because you’ve recovered from past illnesses and can see and feel yourself getting better. When illness affects your emotions, thoughts and mental well-being, you may not be as sure of the outcome and may start to wonder, “Does therapy work?” This article discusses the efficacy of treatment, the techniques involved and what happens in aftercare.
What Is Mental Health Rehabilitation?
Approximately 1 in 20 adults in the United States experiences a severe mental illness such as major depressive disorder, schizophrenia and PTSD, affecting normal functioning. Of those individuals with SMIs, only 65% receive any type of treatment. Also referred to as psychiatric rehabilitation or mental health rehabilitation, this treatment helps stabilize an individual so they can return to their daily lives.
There are typically three levels of care.
1. Inpatient Treatment
Inpatient treatment, where the patient lives at the facility 24-7, is the highest level of care. It provides a safe, controlled environment free from outside stressors. With around-the-clock medical supervision and a structured schedule, this setting is ideal for those who may be a danger to themselves or others or those struggling with substance abuse.
2. Partial Hospitalization
Partial hospitalization is a step down from inpatient treatment. An individual receives treatment in a medical facility for specific hours each day. At night, they return home or to a sober living environment. Some programs allow telehealth appointments where the individual can attend meetings virtually.
3. Intensive Outpatient Treatment
Intensive outpatient treatment offers greater flexibility than the other types of treatment. This level of care is ideal for those transitioning from inpatient care. Individuals can integrate back into their normal lives while receiving substantial medical support.
Measuring the Success of Mental Health Rehab
Determining the efficacy of mental health rehabilitation is complex. Therapists and doctors use several measures to track progress and determine success. The three main ways include:
- The foundation. The first factor is the quality of health care an individual receives. The hospital should have the right tools, provide a safe environment and have staff trained specifically to work with those with mental illness.
- The process. When measuring the process, doctors look at whether treatment is customized to an individual’s specific needs.
- The outcome. Clinicians use questionnaires, such as the PHQ-9 for depression and the GAD-7 for anxiety, to score symptom severity at the beginning of treatment and the end. There should be a significant reduction in these scores if treatment is successful.
Does Therapy Work, and What Factors Influence Rehab Outcomes?
Rehab affects everyone differently. Not everyone experiences the same result, even with the same treatment methods. So, does therapy actually work, and is therapy worth it? Consider some of the following statistics.
- Therapy success rates. Talk therapy is by far one of the most effective treatment methods for mild mental health issues. Most individuals complete six to seven sessions, but the exact number may vary. Of those who took part in cognitive behavioral therapy, 68% of individuals with anxiety and 53% with depression were still in remission 10 years after treatment.
- Medication success rates. Approximately 16% of mental health patients receive medications as part of the treatment process. Studies show up to 56% of individuals with anxiety disorders experience a reduction in symptoms. Medications for schizophrenia help approximately 70% to 80%. The exact efficacy numbers vary depending on an individual’s diagnosis.
- Inpatient versus outpatient success rates. Success rates for inpatient versus outpatient treatment vary depending on the diagnosis and the commitment of the individual. In most cases, individuals were three times more likely to complete inpatient care than outpatient treatment.
Evidence-Based Approaches in Mental Health Treatment
Rehab facilities use several evidence-based approaches to mental health treatment. Some of these include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy. One of the most common treatment methods for mental illness, CBT is a type of talk therapy. Therapists, counselors and other professionals help individuals manage emotions and thoughts and develop coping mechanisms.
- Dialectical behavior therapy. DBT is another type of talk therapy for those with more severe mental illness. It focuses on developing four core skills: mindfulness, acceptance, emotional regulation and effectiveness.
- Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing. EMDR involves moving the eyes in a certain way while processing traumatic memories. This method is highly successful and can help an individual become less sensitive to triggers.
- Medication. Some conditions, including bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, must be managed with medication. Medications such as antipsychotics and antidepressants stabilize chemicals in the brain, making symptom management easier.
- Group therapy. Sometimes, it helps to know you’re not alone. Group therapy reduces isolation and loneliness, making therapy more successful.
Long-Term Recovery and Support After Rehab
Successful completion of a treatment program is just the first step toward recovery. In many cases, mental health treatment is a lifelong process. If therapy works, the individual can return home and integrate into their daily lives. Many facilities also offer programs that connect patients to their treatment providers for ongoing support and aftercare.
How to Choose an Effective Rehab Program
Choosing the right rehab program may seem confusing. Look for a few things to help ensure you or your loved one receives the best care.
- License and accreditation. Check to see if the facility is fully licensed by the state and accredited by a reputable national organization.
- Check for reviews. Read online reviews from past patients to see how they were treated and whether they completed the program successfully.
- Evidence-based practices. Ask the facility what treatment methods it uses.
- Comprehensive aftercare. Find out how it handles aftercare. A quality program supports an individual long after initial care is complete.
Increase Your Chances of Success
If you’re struggling with mental health and want to increase your chances of success, reach out for help. Contact FHE Health to speak to one of our counselors and learn more about your treatment options.
