Information on Psychiatric Hospitals

Psychiatric care has changed greatly over the years. The psychiatric hospitals vary greatly based on the kind of illness you are seeking treatment for and also the geographic area in which you live. Mental illness can effect anyone. It does not discriminate between age, race, or income level. Knowing what type of psychiatric treatment is available is important.

Function

• Psychiatric hospitals provide care and treatment for people with mental illness and substance abuse disorders.

Types

• There are several different types of psychiatric hospitals. These types include Crisis Stabilization, Open Units, Medium-Term, Juvenile Wards, Geriatric Wards and Long Term Care Facilities.

Features

• The different types of psychiatric hospitals will have a varied level of security and regulations based on the acuity of threat the patient is believed to be to themselves or someone else.

Considerations

• The different type of hospital that you will choose for treatment is based predominantly on the severity or acuteness of the mental health crisis or illness. You will also find that some hospitals specialize in treatment for particular illnesses.

History

• The treatment and care of the mentally ill has changed dramatically throughout history. Early treatment facilities were called asylums and treatment conditions were very poor. Great improvements have been made in the last half of the 20th century and in the beginning of the 21st century.