Mental health services are offered in a variety of settings. How a person determines the best treatment facility can depend on numerous factors, such as the type and severity of the mental illness and the person’s financial ability. One example of a mental health facility is a private practice. Another example is a residential mental health facility.
The most basic type of mental health facility is a private practice. This is often little more than an office that a mental health professional utilizes to render mental health services. A private practice can also consist of several offices where several mental health professionals operate within the same business. These types of facilities can be located in a home, an office park, or in a medical plaza. Seeking treatment from a private practice often involves a great deal of patient expense.
A local mental health clinic can be a good option for those who need help but who are uninsured or who do not have much money. Such a mental health facility is usually government-funded or operates by way of grants. Since this is the case, patients are often charged based on their ability to pay. Those without income may receive services for free.
The staff that is available at mental health clinics can vary. Sometimes patients will only be treated by therapists or counselors. Others may have access to specialized psychologists. Most local mental health clinics do not offer in-patient services.
Those who need in-patient services may choose a psychiatric hospital, sometimes called an asylum. This option is suitable for those who need both short-term and long-term care. Generally, people go to an asylum when their mental illness is considered severe. In many cases, these people are a risk to themselves or to others. Some people go to these facilities because they are forced.
A psychiatric hospital is usually structured similar to a regular hospital. There will generally be a full medical staff on-site. These hospitals are usually divided into wards. One is usually equipped to deal with emergencies. Others may be designated based on age, sex, or severity of mental illness. Some of these facilities are state-sponsored, which can reduce or alleviate costs.
People with permanent mental health conditions may utilize assisted living facilities. These provide a range of care for people who cannot fully care for themselves and who may not have family capable of caring for them. In such a facility, those receiving services are often referred to as residents instead of patients.
The residents of a mental health assisted living facility are often allowed to live generally normal lives. They may be permitted to work if they are able. They can often receive visitors and leave the facility to visit others without great restriction. Services rendered by the facility often include housekeeping, meals, and activities. For those whose problems are more inhibiting, a greater range of services may be provided.