Feelings of sadness, grief, and being overwhelmed are natural. But when these feelings persist, intensify, or disrupt daily life, it can signal something more profound that needs attention. Depression can impact every aspect of life, from mood and motivation to physical health and relationships.
The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) estimates that nearly 9% of adults in the United States experienced at least one major depressive episode in 2021. This means that millions of people are navigating this complex condition, often while balancing work, family, and daily responsibilities.
For many, this struggle can feel isolating and hard to talk about. However, effective treatments are available, including outpatient therapy, medication, and inpatient treatment, which creates a supportive space when therapy and medication fall short. Read on to learn how inpatient care can provide the care and guidance needed for depression recovery.
What is depression?
Depression is a mental health condition that causes a persistent feeling of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness. It can affect mood, thoughts, behavior, and even physical health, making everyday tasks feel exhausting or meaningless. While it can look different for everyone, it often involves a combination of emotional, physical, and cognitive symptoms that last for at least two weeks or longer.
Types of depression
Depression comes in many forms, each with its own set of symptoms and triggers. Learning about the different types can help people recognize what they’re experiencing and find the right kind of support. These are some of the most prevalent types of depression.
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): Characterized by a prolonged period of deep sadness or loss of interest in daily activities, often accompanied by physical symptoms like changes in sleep, appetite, or energy levels.
- Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD): A longer-term form of depression, also known as dysthymia, with milder but more chronic symptoms lasting two years or more.
- Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): A type of depression that typically occurs during the colder, darker months of the year when daylight is limited.
- Postpartum Depression: A form of depression that can develop after childbirth, affecting a parent’s mood, energy, and emotional connection to their baby.
- Atypical Depression: Characterized by mood reactivity, meaning mood can temporarily improve in response to positive events, along with other unique symptoms like increased appetite or heavy limbs.
Signs of depression
Depression can show up in a variety of ways, both emotionally and physically. It’s not always as obvious as feeling sad; sometimes it’s more about a sense of numbness, disconnection, or exhaustion. Here are some of the most common signs to look out for:
- Persistent sadness or low mood: Feeling down or hopeless most of the time.
- Loss of interest in once-enjoyed activities: No longer finding joy in social interactions or hobbies you used to enjoy.
- Fatigue or low energy: Feeling drained or exhausted, even after rest.
- Sleep disturbances: Trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or sleeping too much.
- Appetite and weight changes: Significant weight loss or gain unrelated to dieting.
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions: Struggling to focus or think clearly.
- Physical symptoms: Unexplained aches, pains, or digestive issues.
- Feelings of guilt or worthlessness: Harsh self-criticism or intense feelings of shame.
- Thoughts of death or suicide: Frequent or intrusive thoughts about self-harm or death.
How does inpatient therapy for depression work?
Because depression can hamper nearly every part of a person’s life and make even the simplest tasks feel overwhelming, getting help is often the first step toward reclaiming a sense of stability and purpose. There are many different types of treatments for depression, ranging from outpatient therapy like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to more intensive options like inpatient care.
Inpatient therapy is designed for those who need a higher level of support. It provides a structured, immersive environment where patients can step away from daily stressors and focus entirely on their recovery. Unlike outpatient care, which might involve weekly talk therapy appointments and self-guided work, inpatient therapy provides 24/7 access to a team of mental health professionals who guide each step of the recovery process, from therapy sessions to medication oversight.
When to seek inpatient care for depression
Some cases of depression are more severe, causing symptoms that are harder to manage through outpatient care alone. In these situations, inpatient treatment can provide the support needed to stabilize symptoms and set the foundation for long-term recovery. It’s often recommended when:
- Symptoms are overwhelming or unmanageable: Daily life feels impossible, and basic tasks like eating, sleeping, or getting out of bed become too difficult.
- There’s a risk of self-harm or suicide: Inpatient care offers a safe, closely monitored environment for those at high risk of self-harm.
- Previous treatments haven’t worked: If therapy, medication, or other outpatient options haven’t provided enough relief or any relief at all.
- Co-occurring disorders are present: When depression occurs alongside other mental health or substance use disorders that complicate recovery.
- Physical health is being impacted: When depression leads to significant weight loss, fatigue, or other physical symptoms that require medical oversight.
- Support systems are limited: When a person lacks a stable, supportive home environment or feels isolated from friends and family.
What to expect as an inpatient for depression
If you or a loved one is considering inpatient treatment for depression, it’s natural to feel hope, uncertainty, and even fear. Starting any type of mental health treatment can be intimidating, but knowing what to expect can make the process a little less overwhelming. Remember: inpatient care is designed to provide a safe, supportive environment where recovery is the top priority, not a place for judgment or pressure.
Here’s a look at what the journey might involve.
Intake
The intake process is the first step in any inpatient program, and it’s when patients typically get a chance to share what brings them to treatment, discuss their symptoms, and outline their goals for recovery. This initial meeting with a mental health professional helps the care team gather important information about the patient’s history, current challenges, and treatment preferences, laying the foundation for a personalized care plan.
Assessment
Once admitted, patients typically go through a more detailed assessment. This might involve psychological testing, physical health screenings, and one-on-one interviews with psychiatrists, psychologists, or therapists. The goal is to identify the specific factors contributing to the depression and any co-occurring conditions that might complicate recovery, like anxiety, PTSD, or substance use disorders. This step helps the care team choose the most effective therapies and treatments for each individual.
Treatment
Because depression rarely responds to a one-size-fits-all approach, inpatient treatment often involves a set of evidence-based therapies and supportive practices. Common depression therapies found in inpatient treatment include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A structured, goal-oriented form of talk therapy that helps patients identify and change unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): A form of CBT that focuses on building emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal skills.
- Group Therapy: Talk therapy sessions that provide a sense of community and shared understanding. Group therapy allows patients to connect with others facing similar challenges.
- Medication Management: In some cases, a psychiatrist may prescribe or adjust medications to help stabilize mood and improve overall well-being.
- Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS): A noninvasive procedure that uses targeted magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain involved in mood regulation.
- Mindfulness and Meditation: Practices that help individuals focus on the present moment, reduce stress, and build emotional awareness.
- Art and Music Therapy: Creative outlets that encourage self-expression and emotional processing to help reduce symptoms of depression.
- Movement Therapy: Activities like yoga, dance, or tai chi that help patients reconnect with their bodies and reduce tension.
- Family Therapy: Talk therapy sessions that include loved ones to improve communication and build a stronger support network.
- Experiential Therapy: Activities like nature walks, outdoor challenges, or equine (horse) therapy that promote emotional growth through hands-on experiences.
- Nutritional Counseling: Guidance on how diet and nutrition can impact mood and overall well-being, commonly used in patients experiencing an eating disorder alongside depression.
What happens after a depression inpatient completes treatment?
Completing an inpatient program is a significant milestone that can greatly reduce symptoms of depression and improve quality of life. However, for some people, it’s just one part of the recovery journey. Ongoing support and planning are typically important to maintain progress and prevent relapse. Aftercare following inpatient therapy is often personalized based on each person’s needs and goals, but it can include a mix of the following:
- Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs): A step down from inpatient care that provides continued structure and support while allowing patients to return to their daily lives.
- Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs): A more intensive option than standard outpatient therapy, offering a high level of support without requiring an overnight stay.
- Regular Outpatient Therapy: Ongoing one-on-one sessions with a therapist to continue building coping skills and emotional awareness.
- Medication Management: Regular appointments with a psychiatrist or primary care provider to monitor medication effectiveness and make adjustments as needed.
- Support Groups: Peer-led or professionally guided groups that offer a sense of community and understanding.
- Relapse Prevention Planning: Creating a personalized plan to recognize early warning signs and respond effectively if symptoms return.
- Lifestyle Changes: Focusing on healthy habits like regular exercise, balanced nutrition, quality sleep, and mindfulness to support overall mental health.
- Family Therapy or Support: Involving loved ones in the recovery process to strengthen relationships and create a stronger support system.
- Alternative Therapies: Like TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation), EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), neurofeedback, acupuncture, and light therapy, which can complement traditional talk therapies and provide additional support for symptom relief.
Start Your Depression Treatment With Brain Health Center
Finding the right depression treatment starts with understanding your options. From outpatient therapy and medication to inpatient programs, each path offers unique benefits for those seeking relief. Inpatient care provides a structured environment for patients who might not respond well to therapy or medication, as well as those with severe symptoms or complex needs. It typically includes individual therapy, group sessions, medication management, and holistic practices, all within a safe, supportive setting designed to promote lasting recovery.
At Brain Health Center, we understand how disruptive depression can be. That’s why we offer outpatient accelerated TMS therapy backed by the latest mental health research. With treatment that can be completed in just five days (50 ten-minute sessions, 10 per day), our program is designed to provide quick and lasting results that fit your unique needs.
Ready to take the next step toward better mental health? Contact us today to learn more about our programs and start your path to recovery.
FAQs
Here are answers to a few of the most common questions about inpatient treatment for depression:
How long does inpatient depression treatment last?
Inpatient treatment can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the severity of symptoms and the progress made during the program.
What does inpatient depression treatment involve?
Inpatient depression treatment typically includes a combination of individual therapy, group sessions, medication management, and alternative practices like mindfulness, art therapy, or movement therapy, all aimed at stabilizing symptoms and building resilience.
How much does inpatient depression treatment cost?
The cost varies widely depending on the facility, length of stay, and level of care needed. Some insurance plans cover part or all of the expenses, so it’s important to check with your provider for specific details.
Is inpatient depression treatment covered by insurance?
Many insurance plans cover some or all of the costs associated with inpatient depression treatment, but coverage can vary depending on your policy. Contact your insurance company directly to understand what’s included.
Can family members visit during inpatient depression treatment?
Most inpatient programs encourage family involvement since a solid support network can be an important part of recovery. However, visitation policies vary by facility, so it’s best to ask the specific program for their guidelines.
Can you work or go to school while in inpatient treatment?
Like the name suggests, inpatient programs are typically full-time residential treatments, which means patients usually step away from work, school, and other responsibilities to focus entirely on recovery. That said, some programs offer educational support or career counseling as part of the recovery process.