Did you know that roughly 5.0 million adolescents aged 12-17 and 11.5% of youths in the United States reported major depression in 2021 & 2023, respectively? As startling as that may sound, there’s some good news. Teen depression is manageable and treatable! At Nexus Teen Academy, we understand the challenges teens and parents face during the formative years of adolescence. To help your teen overcome depression, we offer tailored support and comprehensive treatment for teen psychological, behavioral, and substance abuse issues.
In this article, we seek to acquaint you with inpatient teen depression treatment. We will explore several relevant topics, such as the associated inpatient treatment benefits, therapeutic interventions used, what to expect during residential treatment, and post-treatment support, care, and recovery. However, let’s help you recognize the signs of teen depression first.
Recognizing the Signs of Teen Depression
Depression affects how teenagers think, behave, and feel and is commonly associated with persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest in daily activities. Some of its possible effects include the following:
Significant behavioral and emotional changes, such as increased withdrawal, isolation, irritability, and intense, persistent mood swings.
Wearing down adolescents’ energy levels results in fatigue, loss of interest in daily activities, and sleep disturbances.
Triggering significant changes in appetite, leading to weight gain or loss.
Academic and social struggles lead to changes in peer relationships and a decline in school performance.
Depressive symptoms may go unnoticed at times, especially in introverted teens. Teens may also mask their feelings and emotions, appearing normal while experiencing significant turmoil. In addition to the effects above, parents should watch out for the following teen depression indicators:
Overindulgence in drugs and alcohol
Increased agitation and restlessness
Frequent complaints of unexplained headaches or body pains
Neglect of personal hygiene and overall appearance
Increased engagement in risky behaviors
Frequent anger outbursts
Self-harm and suicidal attempts
Frequent crying spells with no apparent reason.
Persistent feelings of hopelessness or emptiness
Increased frustration over small matters
As mentioned, sometimes symptoms may go unnoticed. Therefore, being aware of the risk factors can help identify and address potential depression issues early.
History of trauma or abuse
High levels of academic or social stress
Bullying or peer victimization
Family history of depression or mental illness
Substance use or addiction
Although you may be scared or worried about noticing the above signs & risk factors in your teen, strive to stay calm and composed. Do not confront or push them to open up, as they already have enough on their plate. Instead, let them know you are there for them and involve them in researching and exploring teen mental health treatment centers and facilities such as Nexus Teen Academy residential program.
When Is Inpatient Treatment For Teen Depression Necessary?
Some cases of teen depression are best addressed through inpatient treatment. They include cases of severe depression, where outpatient treatment has failed, and when risk factors such as suicidal ideation and self-harm are established. In case you are wondering, here is a detailed explanation:
Inpatient treatment programs occur in structured indoor residential settings where teens are closely monitored and supervised for improved treatment and recovery outcomes. Before teens are admitted, mental health professionals conduct biopsychosocial evaluations to assess the severity of their conditions, explore risk factors, and identify co-occurring issues. Let’s expound more.
Assessing the Severity of Depression
When assessing how severe a teen’s depression is, treatment professionals consider the intensity of the accompanying symptoms and use standardized tools to quantify them. They also evaluate their impacts on a teenager’s daily functioning, social relationships, and academic performance and check for risk factors such as suicidal ideation and self-harm. Severe cases of teen depression warrant close monitoring and supervision, best offered in inpatient treatment facilities.
Failed Outpatient Treatment
You may have mistaken your teen’s depression for normal teen angst, hoping it would phase out soon. However, when symptoms persisted, you talked to other parents who recommended outpatient therapy, allowing your adolescent to seek treatment while staying at home. While this may have been a great move, outpatient therapy may not be enough at times, especially for severe depression.
Benefits of Inpatient Treatment for Teen Depression
Inpatient psychiatric care is highly recommended if you have explored outpatient treatment to no avail for teen depression. Here are a few reasons why:
It offers a more intensive and structured environment that supports close teen monitoring and supervision.
It eliminates or minimizes outside distractions and environmental risk factors, allowing teens to focus fully on treatment.
Most inpatient treatment programs have multidisciplinary teams that offer tailored, intensive therapeutic interventions for depression.
Teens are guaranteed round-the-clock support.
After covering the situations that warrant inpatient treatment for teen depression, it’s only right that we explore the available options and how to identify the right inpatient treatment facility.
Exploring Teen Inpatient Depression Treatment Options
Teen inpatient depression treatment is commonly offered in hospitals, psychiatric units, and residential treatment facilities. Although the first two are great, we highly recommend teen residential treatment centers in Arizona such as Nexus Teen Academy for the following reasons:
They offer a highly structured and supportive treatment environment
Adolescents have round-the-clock care, support, and supervision by highly qualified treatment professionals.
They foster peer interaction, community, and shared interests by bringing teens facing similar challenges together.
The Search for the Right Inpatient Treatment Facility
A major challenge parents face when exploring inpatient residential treatment for teen depression is finding the right facility. For better results, consider the following factors when assessing the right teen inpatient depression treatment facility:
1. Choose the Ideal Setting
Your adolescent deserves comprehensive and effective care. Therefore, settle on a facility with a safe and supportive environment that balances structure and flexibility and allows for family participation in teen treatment. Additionally, ensure it offers educational support during treatment to keep your teen at par with their schoolwork.
2. Consider Location and Accessibility
Your teen’s inpatient facility should be conveniently located and easily accessible for easier family treatment involvement and ease of transitioning to and from the treatment center. Also, choose safe locations near necessary facilities and services, such as hospitals and emergency care.
3. Check for Accreditations and Credentials
Accreditations and credentials prove a facility adheres to rigorous quality and safety standards during treatment. Check for reputable accreditations from bodies such as the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) and the Joint Commission, as they are only given to programs that adhere to industry best practices and comply with necessary healthcare standards.
You should also ascertain that the center’s staff has all the necessary credentials. At Nexus Teen Academy, we engage licensed, qualified, and highly experienced teen mental health professionals to ensure adolescents are only attended to by the best. Feel free to check our accreditations and credentials when you visit us soon.
4. Check for a Multidisciplinary Team
The best way to guarantee comprehensive teen mental health care is to choose facilities with multidisciplinary teams comprising psychiatrists, therapists, psychologists, nurses, and other relevant professionals. By bringing together different mental health specialists, multidisciplinary teams address adolescents’ cognitive, emotional, and social aspects for enhanced recovery outcomes and improved well-being.
We offer multidisciplinary treatment at Nexus Teen Academy. Some of the associated benefits of this approach include accurate diagnoses, well-rounded and personalized treatment plans, and easier implementation of evidence-based therapeutic interventions for enhanced recovery outcomes. Let’s see what happens before, when, and after teens are admitted to inpatient treatment facilities.
Depressed Teen Inpatient Program Admission
Once mental health professionals have assessed teen depression severity and recommended inpatient residential treatment, preparations are made for a smooth transition and treatment process. Preparations may include the following:
Discussing treatment goals, logistical details, and expectations. This is often done with the input of a mental health professional.
Discuss the total program cost and make financial arrangements.
Gather relevant background information, medical history, or medications for tailored plan development.
Picking a starting date
This is the right stage to ask questions regarding the facility for informed decision-making. We welcome you to visit us at Nexus Teen Academy to familiarize yourself with our therapeutic environment, treatment modalities, and staff before your teen’s admission.
The Admission Process
Your teenager is now an inch away from finding the help they need to overcome depression. We have simplified our admission process at Nexus Teen Academy to give you and your teen an easy time during admission and foster a faster transition to the treatment environment. Here are a few things to expect during the admission process:
Completion of necessary paperwork, such as consent forms.
Development of individualized treatment plans tailored to your teen’s specific needs based on comprehensive assessment and evaluation.
Medical examination to address any physical health concerns or challenges
Discussions about schedule, rules, and available therapeutic interventions.
Set clear guidelines and expectations and answer any final questions you may have before finalizing the admission process.
Check teen belongings to ensure they have all the necessary items (including their medications) and that no restricted items are let in.
Since we hold our clients in high regard, we have a qualified team ready to guide you every step of the way. Therefore, feel free to ask for assistance or clarifications at any time.
Packing and Personal Belonging
Accredited inpatient treatment programs go to great lengths to make teens comfortable during their stay. However, they must also minimize distractions to the lowest possible level and keep teens safe for improved treatment and recovery outcomes. Therefore, while some items are allowed, others are prohibited. Here are a few things teens can bring and what they should leave behind during our Nexus Teen Academy admission:
What to Bring
Teens can bring personal things to the inpatient treatment facility, including clothing, toiletries, specific personal hygiene products, and necessary prescribed medications. Teens should also bring important documentation such as their health insurance card, medical history, pharmacy documentation, and prescription information. However, some personal items may sometimes be restricted or regulated depending on the teenager’s condition and treatment goals.
What to Leave Behind
To maintain a safe, distraction-free therapeutic environment, we ask that teens leave behind several items, including personal electronic devices, non-prescribed medications, alcohol, illicit drugs, and items that could pose a safety risk, e.g., sharp objects. Also, clothing not aligned with our dress code or safety standards is not allowed.
Life Inside an Inpatient Treatment Center
What is it like inside an inpatient treatment center for teens? Let’s see how facilities such as our Nexus Teen Academy foster a safe, structured, and therapeutic residential environment for teen depression treatment:
Daily Schedule and Routine
Inpatient treatment centers have daily schedules and routines that balance therapy, education, and recreation to promote structure and stability among teens. A predictable routine offers control and security, while a structured environment helps regulate daily activities and promotes consistency. Here is how we ensure structure and stability at Nexus Teen Academy:
We have a standard, routine wake-up time. After waking up, teens attend to their hygiene, get breakfast, and join therapeutic groups or morning meetings.
We integrate educational and academic components into our daily schedule, allowing teens to continue their studies while attending treatment.
Our professionals engage teens in skill-building activities or experiential therapies in the mid-morning to foster the development of coping strategies, emotional regulation techniques, and interpersonal skills.
In the evening, we administer family and group therapies to address family dysfunctions and foster shared experiences.
We engage teens in recreational and leisure activities in the evening to promote relaxation and stress reduction.
We offer healthy, balanced meals and snacks for overall teen well-being.
We have a bedtime routine for healthy sleeping habits and patterns. Lights go out at the same time every day.
Therapeutic Approaches To Treat Depression
During inpatient residential treatment for teen depression, treatment professionals use different therapeutic approaches and interventions to improve recovery outcomes. Let’s explore some.
Individual Therapy
Individual therapy offers adolescents diagnosed with depression a chance to have closed one-on-one discussions with therapists about their struggles and issues. During the session, therapists help adolescents understand their feelings and thought patterns, identify the underlying causes of their issues and develop healthy coping strategies. We provide the following individual therapies at Nexus Teen Academy:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Commonly known as CBT, teen cognitive behavioral therapy helps identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with teen mental health issues, such as depression. It is premised on the idea that our emotions and behaviors are interconnected; therefore, we can achieve behavioral change by altering our thinking patterns. The benefits associated with this therapeutic intervention include negative behavior reduction, improved emotion regulation, enhanced problem-solving, and better relationships.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) teaches teens to manage their emotions, deal with difficult situations, and develop healthier coping skills. It is premised on the idea that two opposing ideas can exist simultaneously and both be true, which, when teens come to terms with it, fosters self-acceptance and behavioral change simultaneously. Besides one-on-one interactions, it can be administered through group skills training and phone coaching. DBT can enhance emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, distress tolerance, and mindfulness if administered well.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Teen ACT helps adolescents recognize that their thoughts and feelings don’t have to control their behaviors, i.e., they are still in control even amid uncomfortable thoughts. It contrasts CBT, which aims to identify and change negative thoughts. At Nexus Teen Academy, we administer this intervention to help teens accept what they cannot change and take action in areas under their control.
Motivational Interviewing
Motivational interviewing is a fundamental therapeutic intervention that helps teens recognize they are not alone in their depression and that there are resources to help them. Our therapists use this technique to encourage teens to explore their issues and find solutions.
Group Therapy
Group therapy is administered to adolescents with similar issues. It is moderated by a professional therapist who begins by introducing the topic to be discussed and offering an overview of what is to be covered, setting the pace for teens to discuss their feelings and experiences. This therapeutic approach allows adolescents to share their stories and perspectives, learn from each other, and build trust and understanding.
The moderating therapist also provides necessary resources and tools to help teens develop healthy coping skills and make positive life changes. Sessions end with the therapist summarizing what was discussed and guidance for further exploration. Here are some of the benefits associated with group therapy for adolescent depression:
It provides a supportive environment by connecting with others facing similar challenges like depression.
It fosters a sense of belonging and understanding, making teens feel less isolated.
It allows teens to build positive relationships and improve their social skills.
By sharing experiences, teenagers normalize their feelings, which goes a long way to reducing the stigma associated with depression.
It exposes adolescents to diverse perspectives, allowing them to gain insights and develop effective coping strategies.
It fosters empathy and role modeling among peers.
Teens get a safe space for emotional expression, allowing them to share their thoughts and emotions openly.
The relationships formed during group therapy normally extend past the treatment period.
Holistic and Creative Modalities
Holistic and creative therapeutic interventions allow teens to express and discover themselves. They foster holistic treatment by addressing physical, emotional, and social well-being, often improving teen coping mechanisms, self-awareness, and communication skills. Besides alleviating depressive symptoms, they can help teens navigate life challenges by promoting lasting resilience.
Some of the holistic and creative modalities in our Nexus Teen Academy residential program include journaling, art therapy, holistic nutrition and wellness, drama therapy, mindfulness meditation, yoga therapy, adventure therapy, and equine-assisted therapy. We tailor them to the teen’s needs, preferences, condition severity, and treatment goals for enhanced recovery outcomes.
Medication Management
Pharmacological interventions are often used alongside therapeutic techniques to address different teen mental health issues and complexities, such as depression. Here are some of the roles of medication in depression treatment and recovery:
Medications help alleviate chemical imbalances associated with mental health issues such as depression.
Medications such as antidepressants help manage and reduce depressive symptoms.
By enhancing emotional regulation and mood stabilization, medications can enhance a teenager’s therapy response.
Adolescents can achieve long-term post-treatment stability by adhering to prescribed medications.
Medication can help improve cognitive functioning and offer quick relief compared to other therapeutic interventions.
We often consider the teenager’s individual needs, age, medical history, and specific depressive symptoms when establishing individualized medication plans. We also monitor teens for progress and side effects and make necessary adjustments.
Supporting Your Teen’s Depression Recovery
Teens in depression recovery need care and support. Parents and family members should be with them every step of the way, during and after treatment. This requires staying involved in their treatment and recovery, creating an open and supportive environment, and setting realistic goals and expectations. Here is a further exploration:
Family Involvement
At Nexus Teen Academy, we allow family members to participate in teen treatment through teen family therapy. Families work together during sessions to explore issues causing teen distress, develop healthier relationships, and learn new communication strategies. Family members can express their feelings, discuss potential solutions, and learn how to support each other better.
Our therapists focus on healthy coping skills and communication strategies to help participants navigate difficult conversations and understand each other’s perspectives. Here are some of the potential benefits of family involvement in teen inpatient residential depression treatment:
It offers family members a safe space to express their feelings and learn healthy communication strategies.
It fosters collaboration, which can help family members improve their overall relationship dynamic and strengthen their bonds.
It can foster a clear understanding and acceptance of roles within the family unit.
It helps family members build empathy and understand each other’s perspectives.
It helps family members learn how to resolve conflicts constructively without resorting to unhealthy coping mechanisms.
Communication with Your Teen
Teens in depression recovery need a safe space to express their feelings, concerns, and emotions, which calls for open and supportive communication. Communicating with your teen helps you stay informed about their progress, identify potential challenges or relapse indicators, and reinforce positive coping mechanisms. Here are a few strategies that can help you balance boundaries and connection and rebuild trust while respecting privacy when communicating with a recovering teen:
Encourage them to share their concerns and experiences and actively listen to them without judgment.
Validate their emotions
Use open-ended questions to encourage them to share their thoughts and emotions.
Instead of placing blame, express your feelings and concerns using “I” statements for a collaborative conversation.
Be patient and understanding.
Remember to educate yourself about teen depression to get a better understanding of your teenager’s experience. This will help you develop empathy, paving the way for easy communication.
Setting Realistic Expectations
Recovery is a journey. Like any journey, it can be riddled with hurdles and setbacks. Besides being patient and understanding, you must set realistic expectations to avoid frustrations and disappointments. Expecting significant improvements within a short period can put unnecessary pressure on your teen, leading to a relapse.
Acknowledge the complexities of mental health when setting goals or milestones and create space for setbacks to avoid placing an undue burden on a recovering teen. Moreover, acknowledge and celebrate your teenager whenever they achieve a small milestone to keep them motivated in their recovery.
Preparing for the Transition to Home
Your teenager has finally completed their inpatient depression treatment program, and it’s time for them to come home. Before anything else, congratulate them and communicate how proud you are. Also, pat yourself on the back for staying involved in their treatment. Next, embark on the following steps:
Discharge & Aftercare Planning
Discharge planning supports a smooth transition from the structured inpatient to the home environment. Here are a few things we normally do at Nexus Teen Academy before releasing teens to the home environment:
We collaborate with parents and teenagers to develop a personalized aftercare plan for ongoing therapy, medication management, and support services.
We reinforce therapeutic strategies and coping skills learned during treatment and discuss potential triggers and challenges to mitigate relapse risks.
Our mental health professionals establish direct communication lines with parents and teens for continued monitoring, adjustment of medication plans, and ongoing support.
We offer crisis intervention and community-based mental health support resource recommendations.
Preventing Relapse
As we mentioned, recovery is a gradual process. Although we all want our teens to recover and live happily after teen depression treatment, there is a possibility they may relapse. A depression relapse occurs when depressive symptoms return or worsen during recovery. To minimize the chances of a teen relapsing post-depression treatment, you should know how to identify relapse triggers and warning signs and help them develop their resilience.
Identifying Relapse Triggers and Warning Signs
A teen’s depressive symptoms may return or worsen post-treatment due to the following:
Stressful life events after recovery, such as grief, relationship changes, and family conflict.
Stopping treatment earlier than recommended. Staying with treatment for six or more months is usually advisable after getting better.
Presence of medical conditions such as obesity, heart disease, and diabetes.
Inadequate ongoing support
Unrealistic expectations about the recovery process
Poor sleep quality/ disruptions in sleeping patterns
Strategies for Ongoing Resilience
Helping your teen stay resilient can help minimize the chances of a relapse after successful treatment. Here are a few strategies to explore:
Encourage your teenager to attend regular therapy sessions for continued support.
Help your teen build strong, healthy relationships with peers and family members. You can encourage them to connect with others by volunteering on projects.
Encourage your teen to engage in activities they enjoy, such as hobbies.
Help your teenager adopt healthy lifestyle habits such as regular physical exercise.
Help your teenager foster a sense of meaning and purpose daily.
Finding Hope and Healing
Teen depression is treatable and manageable. With adequate support and the right interventions, your teenager can realize positive changes, get their life back, and maximize their potential for a bright future. Here are some of the possible long-term outcomes of inpatient teen depression treatment:
Improved relationship building and social functioning.
Enhanced emotional regulation and coping skills.
Increased academic performance and school engagement.
Better handling of life stressors
Increased engagement with life
Improved self-awareness and self-worth
Reduction in suicidal behaviors or potential self-harm.
Continuing Supporting Your Teen Through Depression
It’s normal to feel scared for or worried about your teen before, during, and after depression treatment. However, you have to remember that they are also scared and are looking up to you for guidance and support. Therefore, you must stay strong and continue the journey despite potential setbacks and challenges. Here are a few tips that may help:
Stay connected to your teen’s recovery by regularly checking in with them, giving them a safe space to express their feelings and emotions without judgment, being actively involved in their life, collaborating with the treatment team for ongoing care and support, and allowing them to own their recovery process while offering a supportive and reliable presence.
Fostering independence and resilience by gradually increasing decision-making opportunities and responsibilities, encouraging them to set realistic and achievable goals, promoting healthy coping mechanisms and problem-resolving skills, encouraging self-care practices, staying involved while respecting boundaries, and allowing them opportunities for positive social connections.
Conclusion
Seeking help and support for teen depression is one of the most affectionate steps you can take to set your teen and family on the right path to healing. At Nexus Teen Academy, we offer an accredited and highly revered teen residential treatment program to help teens overcome different mental health issues, such as depression. Feel free to contact us for the best teen mental health care and support.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How Parents Can Help Their Teenagers with Depression?
Parents can help their teenagers with depression by maintaining open communication, offering nonjudgmental listening, collaborating with treatment teams, fostering independence, encouraging self-care, and providing consistent love and support.
2. What Age Groups Benefit Most from Inpatient Treatment for Teenage Depression?
Inpatient treatment for teenage depression is mostly recommended for teens aged 12 or older. Our Nexus Teen Academy residential program provides personalized care for 12-17-year-old teens diagnosed with depression and other mental health conditions.
3. How Long Does Inpatient Treatment Typically Last for Teenage Depression?
The duration of inpatient treatment for teen depression can vary depending on symptom severity, teen treatment response, and the specific treatment plan. Generally, teens diagnosed with depression stay in treatment facilities for several weeks to a few months.
4. Are There Alternatives to Inpatient Treatment for Teen Depression?
Yes. Although inpatient treatment is highly recommended for depression treatment, alternatives such as teen intensive outpatient therapy (IOP) and partial hospitalization program (PHP) can be equally effective depending on symptom severity.
5. What Happens if a Teen Refuses Treatment in an Inpatient Facility?
We normally inform teens about the perks of inpatient treatment and what to expect in our facility’s pre-admission for informed decision-making. If a teen refuses treatment, our treatment professionals work to address their issues and make necessary adjustments based on their reasons. Other equally effective but less intensive programs, such as teen IOP and partial hospitalization, can also work in such cases.
6. What Academic Support is Available for Teens Inside the Treatment Centers?
Inside treatment centers, teens receive academic support tailored to their individual needs. This often includes access to certified teachers or tutors who provide educational assistance, coordinate with the teen’s school to ensure academic continuity, offer structured study sessions, and assist with homework assignments.
7. How Can Families Support Their Teens’ Transition Back Home After Treatment?
For effective post-treatment transition, families should allow teens time to adjust, establish open and honest communication channels, continue engaging in family therapy to address new familial issues, establish structures and routines for stability and predictability, and monitor their mental health and well-being without being intrusive.
8. What Resources Are Available for Ongoing Support Post-Inpatient Treatment?
Teens and parents can explore the following resources for ongoing support after inpatient depression treatment: outpatient therapy, support groups, mental health websites, crisis helplines, school-based resources, family therapy, and community mental health services.
9. How is Medication Managed and Monitored During Inpatient Treatment?
During inpatient treatment, medication is administered to teens by a team of psychiatric professionals based on their age, needs, treatment goals, and tolerance. The team, consisting of psychiatrists and nurses, also monitors side effects and makes necessary adjustments.
10. How is Confidentiality Maintained in Inpatient Treatment Centers?
Teen mental health treatment is based on confidentiality, which is both an ethical and legal requirement. To ensure high confidentiality standards, inpatient treatment centers only share teen information treatment with authorized professionals directly involved in the teen’s care. Their staff members are legally and ethically bound to confidentiality agreements, and discussions regarding teen treatment are done privately.
11. How Do Inpatient Facilities Handle Emergencies or Medical Needs?
Inpatient facilities have trained physicians and nurses who attend to medical needs and intervene during emergencies. They also collaborate with local emergency services if outside help is needed or in response to unexpected medical situations.
12. What Activities or Hobbies are Available for Teens in an Inpatient Facility?
To support the overall well-being of teens during treatment, inpatient facilities offer a range of activities and hobbies, including sports, outdoor exercises, yoga, meditation, expressive therapies, and skill-building exercises.
13. Can Teenagers Volunteer to Check Themselves into an Inpatient Facility?
Teenagers who recognize their mental health challenges and are ready to seek help can voluntarily check themselves into a residential treatment facility. However, parents or legal guardians must be involved during treatment planning.
14. What Happens During the Initial Assessment in an Inpatient Treatment Center?
Mental health professionals gather critical information about the teen’s mental health history, symptoms, and risk factors during the initial assessment through psychiatric evaluations, discussions with family and friends, and a medical history review. Assessing the teens’s cognitive functioning, symptom severity, and potential risk factors helps determine the necessary level of care and tailor appropriate treatment plans.
15. What are The Differences Between Inpatient and Outpatient Treatment for Teens?
Inpatient and outpatient treatment for teens differ in their intensity and setting. Inpatient treatment offers a higher level of care for severe mental health issues in residential facilities, while outpatient treatment allows teens to stay at home while attending treatment. It is usually more flexible and less intensive.
Inpatient Treatment for Teen Depression in Arizona
Published On February 28, 2024
Table of Contents
Did you know that roughly 5.0 million adolescents aged 12-17 and 11.5% of youths in the United States reported major depression in 2021 & 2023, respectively? As startling as that may sound, there’s some good news. Teen depression is manageable and treatable! At Nexus Teen Academy, we understand the challenges teens and parents face during the formative years of adolescence. To help your teen overcome depression, we offer tailored support and comprehensive treatment for teen psychological, behavioral, and substance abuse issues.
In this article, we seek to acquaint you with inpatient teen depression treatment. We will explore several relevant topics, such as the associated inpatient treatment benefits, therapeutic interventions used, what to expect during residential treatment, and post-treatment support, care, and recovery. However, let’s help you recognize the signs of teen depression first.
Recognizing the Signs of Teen Depression
Depression affects how teenagers think, behave, and feel and is commonly associated with persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest in daily activities. Some of its possible effects include the following:
Depressive symptoms may go unnoticed at times, especially in introverted teens. Teens may also mask their feelings and emotions, appearing normal while experiencing significant turmoil. In addition to the effects above, parents should watch out for the following teen depression indicators:
As mentioned, sometimes symptoms may go unnoticed. Therefore, being aware of the risk factors can help identify and address potential depression issues early.
Although you may be scared or worried about noticing the above signs & risk factors in your teen, strive to stay calm and composed. Do not confront or push them to open up, as they already have enough on their plate. Instead, let them know you are there for them and involve them in researching and exploring teen mental health treatment centers and facilities such as Nexus Teen Academy residential program.
When Is Inpatient Treatment For Teen Depression Necessary?
Some cases of teen depression are best addressed through inpatient treatment. They include cases of severe depression, where outpatient treatment has failed, and when risk factors such as suicidal ideation and self-harm are established. In case you are wondering, here is a detailed explanation:
Inpatient treatment programs occur in structured indoor residential settings where teens are closely monitored and supervised for improved treatment and recovery outcomes. Before teens are admitted, mental health professionals conduct biopsychosocial evaluations to assess the severity of their conditions, explore risk factors, and identify co-occurring issues. Let’s expound more.
Assessing the Severity of Depression
When assessing how severe a teen’s depression is, treatment professionals consider the intensity of the accompanying symptoms and use standardized tools to quantify them. They also evaluate their impacts on a teenager’s daily functioning, social relationships, and academic performance and check for risk factors such as suicidal ideation and self-harm. Severe cases of teen depression warrant close monitoring and supervision, best offered in inpatient treatment facilities.
Failed Outpatient Treatment
You may have mistaken your teen’s depression for normal teen angst, hoping it would phase out soon. However, when symptoms persisted, you talked to other parents who recommended outpatient therapy, allowing your adolescent to seek treatment while staying at home. While this may have been a great move, outpatient therapy may not be enough at times, especially for severe depression.
Benefits of Inpatient Treatment for Teen Depression
Inpatient psychiatric care is highly recommended if you have explored outpatient treatment to no avail for teen depression. Here are a few reasons why:
After covering the situations that warrant inpatient treatment for teen depression, it’s only right that we explore the available options and how to identify the right inpatient treatment facility.
Exploring Teen Inpatient Depression Treatment Options
Teen inpatient depression treatment is commonly offered in hospitals, psychiatric units, and residential treatment facilities. Although the first two are great, we highly recommend teen residential treatment centers in Arizona such as Nexus Teen Academy for the following reasons:
The Search for the Right Inpatient Treatment Facility
A major challenge parents face when exploring inpatient residential treatment for teen depression is finding the right facility. For better results, consider the following factors when assessing the right teen inpatient depression treatment facility:
1. Choose the Ideal Setting
Your adolescent deserves comprehensive and effective care. Therefore, settle on a facility with a safe and supportive environment that balances structure and flexibility and allows for family participation in teen treatment. Additionally, ensure it offers educational support during treatment to keep your teen at par with their schoolwork.
2. Consider Location and Accessibility
Your teen’s inpatient facility should be conveniently located and easily accessible for easier family treatment involvement and ease of transitioning to and from the treatment center. Also, choose safe locations near necessary facilities and services, such as hospitals and emergency care.
3. Check for Accreditations and Credentials
Accreditations and credentials prove a facility adheres to rigorous quality and safety standards during treatment. Check for reputable accreditations from bodies such as the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) and the Joint Commission, as they are only given to programs that adhere to industry best practices and comply with necessary healthcare standards.
You should also ascertain that the center’s staff has all the necessary credentials. At Nexus Teen Academy, we engage licensed, qualified, and highly experienced teen mental health professionals to ensure adolescents are only attended to by the best. Feel free to check our accreditations and credentials when you visit us soon.
4. Check for a Multidisciplinary Team
The best way to guarantee comprehensive teen mental health care is to choose facilities with multidisciplinary teams comprising psychiatrists, therapists, psychologists, nurses, and other relevant professionals. By bringing together different mental health specialists, multidisciplinary teams address adolescents’ cognitive, emotional, and social aspects for enhanced recovery outcomes and improved well-being.
We offer multidisciplinary treatment at Nexus Teen Academy. Some of the associated benefits of this approach include accurate diagnoses, well-rounded and personalized treatment plans, and easier implementation of evidence-based therapeutic interventions for enhanced recovery outcomes. Let’s see what happens before, when, and after teens are admitted to inpatient treatment facilities.
Depressed Teen Inpatient Program Admission
Once mental health professionals have assessed teen depression severity and recommended inpatient residential treatment, preparations are made for a smooth transition and treatment process. Preparations may include the following:
This is the right stage to ask questions regarding the facility for informed decision-making. We welcome you to visit us at Nexus Teen Academy to familiarize yourself with our therapeutic environment, treatment modalities, and staff before your teen’s admission.
The Admission Process
Your teenager is now an inch away from finding the help they need to overcome depression. We have simplified our admission process at Nexus Teen Academy to give you and your teen an easy time during admission and foster a faster transition to the treatment environment. Here are a few things to expect during the admission process:
Since we hold our clients in high regard, we have a qualified team ready to guide you every step of the way. Therefore, feel free to ask for assistance or clarifications at any time.
Packing and Personal Belonging
Accredited inpatient treatment programs go to great lengths to make teens comfortable during their stay. However, they must also minimize distractions to the lowest possible level and keep teens safe for improved treatment and recovery outcomes. Therefore, while some items are allowed, others are prohibited. Here are a few things teens can bring and what they should leave behind during our Nexus Teen Academy admission:
What to Bring
Teens can bring personal things to the inpatient treatment facility, including clothing, toiletries, specific personal hygiene products, and necessary prescribed medications. Teens should also bring important documentation such as their health insurance card, medical history, pharmacy documentation, and prescription information. However, some personal items may sometimes be restricted or regulated depending on the teenager’s condition and treatment goals.
What to Leave Behind
To maintain a safe, distraction-free therapeutic environment, we ask that teens leave behind several items, including personal electronic devices, non-prescribed medications, alcohol, illicit drugs, and items that could pose a safety risk, e.g., sharp objects. Also, clothing not aligned with our dress code or safety standards is not allowed.
Life Inside an Inpatient Treatment Center
What is it like inside an inpatient treatment center for teens? Let’s see how facilities such as our Nexus Teen Academy foster a safe, structured, and therapeutic residential environment for teen depression treatment:
Daily Schedule and Routine
Inpatient treatment centers have daily schedules and routines that balance therapy, education, and recreation to promote structure and stability among teens. A predictable routine offers control and security, while a structured environment helps regulate daily activities and promotes consistency. Here is how we ensure structure and stability at Nexus Teen Academy:
Therapeutic Approaches To Treat Depression
During inpatient residential treatment for teen depression, treatment professionals use different therapeutic approaches and interventions to improve recovery outcomes. Let’s explore some.
Individual Therapy
Individual therapy offers adolescents diagnosed with depression a chance to have closed one-on-one discussions with therapists about their struggles and issues. During the session, therapists help adolescents understand their feelings and thought patterns, identify the underlying causes of their issues and develop healthy coping strategies. We provide the following individual therapies at Nexus Teen Academy:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Commonly known as CBT, teen cognitive behavioral therapy helps identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with teen mental health issues, such as depression. It is premised on the idea that our emotions and behaviors are interconnected; therefore, we can achieve behavioral change by altering our thinking patterns. The benefits associated with this therapeutic intervention include negative behavior reduction, improved emotion regulation, enhanced problem-solving, and better relationships.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) teaches teens to manage their emotions, deal with difficult situations, and develop healthier coping skills. It is premised on the idea that two opposing ideas can exist simultaneously and both be true, which, when teens come to terms with it, fosters self-acceptance and behavioral change simultaneously. Besides one-on-one interactions, it can be administered through group skills training and phone coaching. DBT can enhance emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, distress tolerance, and mindfulness if administered well.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Teen ACT helps adolescents recognize that their thoughts and feelings don’t have to control their behaviors, i.e., they are still in control even amid uncomfortable thoughts. It contrasts CBT, which aims to identify and change negative thoughts. At Nexus Teen Academy, we administer this intervention to help teens accept what they cannot change and take action in areas under their control.
Motivational Interviewing
Motivational interviewing is a fundamental therapeutic intervention that helps teens recognize they are not alone in their depression and that there are resources to help them. Our therapists use this technique to encourage teens to explore their issues and find solutions.
Group Therapy
Group therapy is administered to adolescents with similar issues. It is moderated by a professional therapist who begins by introducing the topic to be discussed and offering an overview of what is to be covered, setting the pace for teens to discuss their feelings and experiences. This therapeutic approach allows adolescents to share their stories and perspectives, learn from each other, and build trust and understanding.
The moderating therapist also provides necessary resources and tools to help teens develop healthy coping skills and make positive life changes. Sessions end with the therapist summarizing what was discussed and guidance for further exploration. Here are some of the benefits associated with group therapy for adolescent depression:
Holistic and Creative Modalities
Holistic and creative therapeutic interventions allow teens to express and discover themselves. They foster holistic treatment by addressing physical, emotional, and social well-being, often improving teen coping mechanisms, self-awareness, and communication skills. Besides alleviating depressive symptoms, they can help teens navigate life challenges by promoting lasting resilience.
Some of the holistic and creative modalities in our Nexus Teen Academy residential program include journaling, art therapy, holistic nutrition and wellness, drama therapy, mindfulness meditation, yoga therapy, adventure therapy, and equine-assisted therapy. We tailor them to the teen’s needs, preferences, condition severity, and treatment goals for enhanced recovery outcomes.
Medication Management
Pharmacological interventions are often used alongside therapeutic techniques to address different teen mental health issues and complexities, such as depression. Here are some of the roles of medication in depression treatment and recovery:
We often consider the teenager’s individual needs, age, medical history, and specific depressive symptoms when establishing individualized medication plans. We also monitor teens for progress and side effects and make necessary adjustments.
Supporting Your Teen’s Depression Recovery
Teens in depression recovery need care and support. Parents and family members should be with them every step of the way, during and after treatment. This requires staying involved in their treatment and recovery, creating an open and supportive environment, and setting realistic goals and expectations. Here is a further exploration:
Family Involvement
At Nexus Teen Academy, we allow family members to participate in teen treatment through teen family therapy. Families work together during sessions to explore issues causing teen distress, develop healthier relationships, and learn new communication strategies. Family members can express their feelings, discuss potential solutions, and learn how to support each other better.
Our therapists focus on healthy coping skills and communication strategies to help participants navigate difficult conversations and understand each other’s perspectives. Here are some of the potential benefits of family involvement in teen inpatient residential depression treatment:
Communication with Your Teen
Teens in depression recovery need a safe space to express their feelings, concerns, and emotions, which calls for open and supportive communication. Communicating with your teen helps you stay informed about their progress, identify potential challenges or relapse indicators, and reinforce positive coping mechanisms. Here are a few strategies that can help you balance boundaries and connection and rebuild trust while respecting privacy when communicating with a recovering teen:
Remember to educate yourself about teen depression to get a better understanding of your teenager’s experience. This will help you develop empathy, paving the way for easy communication.
Setting Realistic Expectations
Recovery is a journey. Like any journey, it can be riddled with hurdles and setbacks. Besides being patient and understanding, you must set realistic expectations to avoid frustrations and disappointments. Expecting significant improvements within a short period can put unnecessary pressure on your teen, leading to a relapse.
Acknowledge the complexities of mental health when setting goals or milestones and create space for setbacks to avoid placing an undue burden on a recovering teen. Moreover, acknowledge and celebrate your teenager whenever they achieve a small milestone to keep them motivated in their recovery.
Preparing for the Transition to Home
Your teenager has finally completed their inpatient depression treatment program, and it’s time for them to come home. Before anything else, congratulate them and communicate how proud you are. Also, pat yourself on the back for staying involved in their treatment. Next, embark on the following steps:
Discharge & Aftercare Planning
Discharge planning supports a smooth transition from the structured inpatient to the home environment. Here are a few things we normally do at Nexus Teen Academy before releasing teens to the home environment:
Preventing Relapse
As we mentioned, recovery is a gradual process. Although we all want our teens to recover and live happily after teen depression treatment, there is a possibility they may relapse. A depression relapse occurs when depressive symptoms return or worsen during recovery. To minimize the chances of a teen relapsing post-depression treatment, you should know how to identify relapse triggers and warning signs and help them develop their resilience.
Identifying Relapse Triggers and Warning Signs
A teen’s depressive symptoms may return or worsen post-treatment due to the following:
Strategies for Ongoing Resilience
Helping your teen stay resilient can help minimize the chances of a relapse after successful treatment. Here are a few strategies to explore:
Finding Hope and Healing
Teen depression is treatable and manageable. With adequate support and the right interventions, your teenager can realize positive changes, get their life back, and maximize their potential for a bright future. Here are some of the possible long-term outcomes of inpatient teen depression treatment:
Continuing Supporting Your Teen Through Depression
It’s normal to feel scared for or worried about your teen before, during, and after depression treatment. However, you have to remember that they are also scared and are looking up to you for guidance and support. Therefore, you must stay strong and continue the journey despite potential setbacks and challenges. Here are a few tips that may help:
Conclusion
Seeking help and support for teen depression is one of the most affectionate steps you can take to set your teen and family on the right path to healing. At Nexus Teen Academy, we offer an accredited and highly revered teen residential treatment program to help teens overcome different mental health issues, such as depression. Feel free to contact us for the best teen mental health care and support.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How Parents Can Help Their Teenagers with Depression?
Parents can help their teenagers with depression by maintaining open communication, offering nonjudgmental listening, collaborating with treatment teams, fostering independence, encouraging self-care, and providing consistent love and support.
2. What Age Groups Benefit Most from Inpatient Treatment for Teenage Depression?
Inpatient treatment for teenage depression is mostly recommended for teens aged 12 or older. Our Nexus Teen Academy residential program provides personalized care for 12-17-year-old teens diagnosed with depression and other mental health conditions.
3. How Long Does Inpatient Treatment Typically Last for Teenage Depression?
The duration of inpatient treatment for teen depression can vary depending on symptom severity, teen treatment response, and the specific treatment plan. Generally, teens diagnosed with depression stay in treatment facilities for several weeks to a few months.
4. Are There Alternatives to Inpatient Treatment for Teen Depression?
Yes. Although inpatient treatment is highly recommended for depression treatment, alternatives such as teen intensive outpatient therapy (IOP) and partial hospitalization program (PHP) can be equally effective depending on symptom severity.
5. What Happens if a Teen Refuses Treatment in an Inpatient Facility?
We normally inform teens about the perks of inpatient treatment and what to expect in our facility’s pre-admission for informed decision-making. If a teen refuses treatment, our treatment professionals work to address their issues and make necessary adjustments based on their reasons. Other equally effective but less intensive programs, such as teen IOP and partial hospitalization, can also work in such cases.
6. What Academic Support is Available for Teens Inside the Treatment Centers?
Inside treatment centers, teens receive academic support tailored to their individual needs. This often includes access to certified teachers or tutors who provide educational assistance, coordinate with the teen’s school to ensure academic continuity, offer structured study sessions, and assist with homework assignments.
7. How Can Families Support Their Teens’ Transition Back Home After Treatment?
For effective post-treatment transition, families should allow teens time to adjust, establish open and honest communication channels, continue engaging in family therapy to address new familial issues, establish structures and routines for stability and predictability, and monitor their mental health and well-being without being intrusive.
8. What Resources Are Available for Ongoing Support Post-Inpatient Treatment?
Teens and parents can explore the following resources for ongoing support after inpatient depression treatment: outpatient therapy, support groups, mental health websites, crisis helplines, school-based resources, family therapy, and community mental health services.
9. How is Medication Managed and Monitored During Inpatient Treatment?
During inpatient treatment, medication is administered to teens by a team of psychiatric professionals based on their age, needs, treatment goals, and tolerance. The team, consisting of psychiatrists and nurses, also monitors side effects and makes necessary adjustments.
10. How is Confidentiality Maintained in Inpatient Treatment Centers?
Teen mental health treatment is based on confidentiality, which is both an ethical and legal requirement. To ensure high confidentiality standards, inpatient treatment centers only share teen information treatment with authorized professionals directly involved in the teen’s care. Their staff members are legally and ethically bound to confidentiality agreements, and discussions regarding teen treatment are done privately.
11. How Do Inpatient Facilities Handle Emergencies or Medical Needs?
Inpatient facilities have trained physicians and nurses who attend to medical needs and intervene during emergencies. They also collaborate with local emergency services if outside help is needed or in response to unexpected medical situations.
12. What Activities or Hobbies are Available for Teens in an Inpatient Facility?
To support the overall well-being of teens during treatment, inpatient facilities offer a range of activities and hobbies, including sports, outdoor exercises, yoga, meditation, expressive therapies, and skill-building exercises.
13. Can Teenagers Volunteer to Check Themselves into an Inpatient Facility?
Teenagers who recognize their mental health challenges and are ready to seek help can voluntarily check themselves into a residential treatment facility. However, parents or legal guardians must be involved during treatment planning.
14. What Happens During the Initial Assessment in an Inpatient Treatment Center?
Mental health professionals gather critical information about the teen’s mental health history, symptoms, and risk factors during the initial assessment through psychiatric evaluations, discussions with family and friends, and a medical history review. Assessing the teens’s cognitive functioning, symptom severity, and potential risk factors helps determine the necessary level of care and tailor appropriate treatment plans.
15. What are The Differences Between Inpatient and Outpatient Treatment for Teens?
Inpatient and outpatient treatment for teens differ in their intensity and setting. Inpatient treatment offers a higher level of care for severe mental health issues in residential facilities, while outpatient treatment allows teens to stay at home while attending treatment. It is usually more flexible and less intensive.