[tnlibrarian]

I was looking at the site for the hospital I will be admitted to if it's deemed that I need to go and noticed they have an intensive outpatient treatment program. Basically, you go for 3 to 4 hours, 5 days per week, for 6 weeks. Treatment for individuals with bipolar disorder is one of the offered programs. I'm considering giving her a call and seeing if the program would be a possible alternative to hospitalization if things don't improve soon. It would provide with more intensive treatment without having to be away at the hospital.

Have any of you tried such a program?

[~Christina]

Ive never been in an out patient situation .. I have done Inpatient 3 times this year ,,I went on a voluntary admit I KNEW I needed help ..

I also see my T weekly.. so Im guesssing thats why I have never heard of an out patient program around me ..

Let us know what you find out about the program ,, sounds interesting .

Good Luck !

I've done an intensive out patient program twice. It was six weeks long each time. It really did help me alot. I'd definitely consider it.

[AniManiac]

I haven't tried a program like that, but it seems like a great idea to have an alternative to suggest when you go talk to your T/pdoc. Maybe that would still have similar benefits for you without as much expense or leaving your hubby stranded with the kids?

[Tosspot]

Yes - I loved the outpatient programs i have done. It was easier than inpatient because i didn't have to disappear. The outpatient programs for me were so good because i learned coping skills over the course of weeks instead of all at once, the repetition is good for me. Plus i saw the pdoc almost daily, and clinicians were always there for support.

best of luck