Delusional disorder can leave someone feeling highly isolated and confused. For instance, they may believe they are being spied on, or that their partner is being unfaithful, even when this isn’t the case. When delusions start to interfere with relationships, daily life, or safety, delusional disorder inpatient treatment may be a suitable treatment option.
Residential programs for delusional disorder offer a supportive environment that can provide the focused care and stability that someone may need to heal. If you’re concerned about delusional beliefs, a mental health professional can advise on the right treatment approach for your needs.
This page can help you understand inpatient options for treating delusional disorder by exploring:
Delusions are beliefs based on an inaccurate interpretation of reality, even when there is evidence or proof that these interpretations are not real. “Non-bizarre” beliefs incorporate those around events that could potentially occur in real life in other circumstances. For instance, believing you are being followed by someone, or someone is obstructing your progression at work. A key feature of this condition is that, other than experiencing delusions, people typically appear to function normally. In contrast, “bizarre” delusions involve outlandish, implausible scenarios.2
However, both non-bizarre and bizarre delusions can vary in extremity and focus from person to person.
It is estimated that up to one in a thousand people experience delusional disorder.2 Some of the most common delusions people with this condition have revolve around:2
If you are having thoughts of suicide or worry that you’re at risk of harming others, call 911 or attend your nearest emergency department for immediate assistance.
Outpatient support, such as medication and psychotherapy, can help many people manage delusional disorder. Sometimes, though, more intensive support may be needed than traditional outpatient care alone can provide. This is when delusional disorder inpatient treatment may be an appropriate consideration.
We accept most major insurance providers and can check your coverage levels for you.
If we are not an appropriate provider for care, we will assist in finding a care provider that can help.
Although delusional disorders are rare, they are thought to account for up to 2% of all psychiatric hospital admissions.3 Some of the common warning signs for when to consider inpatient programs for delusions and psychosis for yourself or a loved one include if someone…4-6
Is at risk of hurting themselves or others
In such cases, residential care for delusional disorder patients may provide the treatment they need to recover and manage their condition. But what is inpatient care like?
Preconceptions of mental health inpatient settings are often informed by images people have seen in movies or on TV. However, you may be relieved to learn that these media portrayals are usually inaccurate and embellished for entertainment purposes.
In the following sections, you’ll find a realistic description of what to expect from inpatient or residential care at a delusional disorder treatment center.
Residential treatment centers provide a safe, structured, live-in environment with access to 24/7 professional support. The settings and routines are designed to minimize stress and uncertainty while encouraging social functioning.
Sleeping arrangements and meals are all taken care of, and many inpatient centers provide access to facilities such as fitness centers, swimming pools, calming common areas, and outdoor spaces.
Inpatient stays vary in length depending on your requirements, from weekend programs through to longer-term options of six or more months.
Short-term programs – lasting 30 days or less – often focus on crisis resolution or treating those who are experiencing sudden, severe symptoms. In contrast, longer-term stays may be more appropriate for people who have more complex needs, persistent mental health issues, or want to achieve long-lasting well-being.
However, there is currently insufficient research to make evidence-based recommendations for the best psychotherapeutic approach for delusional disorder.7 Yet, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) may be useful in exploring and challenging delusions, as well as helping people to develop better coping strategies.8,9
Additionally, regular medication management may be carried out, if appropriate, by a qualified mental health professional to help you manage your symptoms. Medications, such as antipsychotics, can help with managing delusions, while antidepressants could target other mood-related symptoms, for example, depression or suicidal thoughts.9,10
Other important elements for managing delusional disorder may also be incorporated into daily routines, for instance, psychoeducation, sleep hygiene, and learning skills such as self-soothing techniques.9
Inpatient treatment programs also frequently offer access to recreational activities that can support your overall well-being, such as creative writing classes, off-site group activities, or exercise classes.
A Mission For Michael (AMFM) provides treatment for adults experiencing various conditions. Delusional Disorder support is a phone call away – call 866-478-4383 to learn about our current treatment options.
See our residences in Southern California’s Orange County & San Diego County.
Take a look at our homes on the east side of the Metro area in Washington County.
View our facilities in Fairfax County, VA within the DC metro area.
Delusional disorder inpatient treatment can offer several benefits over outpatient treatment. Some of these include:11
Inpatient care can provide the intensive support needed for a person to learn how to manage delusional disorder. But how do you choose a residential program? And how do you know it will be the best one for you?
Choosing a delusional disorder inpatient treatment center is a big decision for many people. Plus, it may feel daunting to talk to an admissions team about treatment, especially if you aren’t sure what you could or should be asking them.
To help take the pressure off, you could write down some questions in advance. This way, you know you won’t forget to ask something important.
Some suggestions of questions to ask when seeking a residential treatment center are:
By being aware of your personal preferences, you can feel more confident about choosing the right inpatient treatment program for your healing.
Also, if you’re curious about what happens when inpatient care ends, the next section may shed some light on this process.
Delusional disorder inpatient treatment can make a significant difference to how a person feels, but what happens once their stay at the residential center ends?
Returning to usual routines can feel jarring, and you may wonder if there are options for continuing support once the program ends. Rest assured that support and help will still be available. In fact, all effective treatment centers should be able to provide you with an idea of the aftercare you will receive.
Aftercare is a plan designed to provide you with the support you need while transitioning back to daily life after finishing inpatient treatment. For instance, aftercare may include elements such as ongoing therapy, support groups, or medication follow-ups, dependent upon your specific needs.
Additionally, aftercare support may be in the form of step-down options, such as partial hospitalization programs (PHPs) or intensive outpatient programs (IOPs).
PHPs are designed to help you move from inpatient to outpatient treatment. They provide comprehensive mental health treatment during the day while allowing you to return home for the nights and weekends. They often involve four to six hours a day, for five days each week, ensuring you continue to receive a high level of support.11
IOPs are a suitable option for someone seeking intensive yet flexible support in the form of therapy and group work. IOPs take up less time than PHPs, typically two to three hours a day, for three to five days per week, and are often available both in-person and online. These programs allow you to continue receiving the support you need while gradually returning to your daily life.11
Having an aftercare plan when completing residential treatment is often essential for preventing a relapse and ensuring long-term recovery. With the right continued help and support, healing is possible.
If you or a loved one is dealing with delusional disorder, know that you’re not alone – and help is available. Healing is possible, and our compassionate team of mental health professionals is here to provide the guidance, support, and structure needed to begin the recovery journey.
AMFM’s residential treatment centers in California, Virginia, and Washington offer 24/7 live-in care and treatment for people who need more support than outpatient services can provide. We also offer both short-term and long-term residential programs, tailored to meet your individual needs.
In our centers, you’ll find a safe, nurturing environment with structured daily routines to support your healing. Some of our services include individual and group therapy, psychiatric care, medication management, holistic therapies, and recreational activities designed to enhance your overall well-being. We also offer outpatient options such as PHPs and IOPs to support your transition from inpatient to outpatient treatment.
Recovery starts with a conversation. Reach out to us today to learn more about how we can support your healing journey.
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