Mood Disorder Treatment | Inpatient Mental Health Programs

Emma Loker
December 10, 2025
Authored by: Emma Loker, BSc, PgDip
Edited by: Ashley Pena, LCSW

Living with a mood disorder can feel like riding an emotional rollercoaster you can’t escape. Whether it’s depression or bipolar disorder, finding stability may feel impossible. It’s not just about feeling “off” for a day – these conditions can involve intense episodes that may turn your life upside down. 

When symptoms become overwhelming, outpatient care may not be enough. Inpatient care for mood instability offers focused, 24/7 support to help stabilize symptoms and begin healing. 

While a mental health professional can provide personalized treatment advice, this page aims to offer a comprehensive overview of mood disorder inpatient treatment. You’ll discover:

  • What mood disorders are
  • When to consider inpatient care for mood disorders
  • What to expect from residential treatment programs
  • Benefits of inpatient treatment for mood disorders
  • Transitioning to outpatient care
  • How to choose the best therapy center for your needs
  • Where to find treatment programs
woman looking sad looking out the window in need of mood disorder treatment

Understanding Mood Disorders

Mood disorders are mental health conditions that primarily disturb a person’s emotional state.1 They typically consist of prolonged mood shifts that can interfere with relationships, daily functioning, and overall well-being.2 Additionally, mood disorders aren’t occasional emotional ups and downs – they can be persistent and debilitating, often needing professional care and treatment to manage symptoms. 

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), mood disorders are broadly categorized as either:3
However, to fully understand these conditions, it can help to recognize their symptoms and causes. We discuss these in turn next.

Symptoms of Mood Disorders

Recognizing the signs of mood disorders is vital for receiving the help and support needed to recover. Symptoms can range in severity from mild to severe, and while they naturally vary depending on diagnosis, some common signs of mood disorders may include:4

Depressive disorders:

  • Feeling sad, empty, or anxious
  • Being unable to focus or concentrate
  • Losing pleasure in most activities that used to bring joy
  • Lower energy levels
  • Eating and sleeping changes
  • Thinking about suicide

If you are having thoughts of suicide or are at risk of harm, call 911 or attend your nearest emergency department for immediate assistance. 

Bipolar disorders:

  • Mood swinging between emotional highs (mania) and lows (depression)
  • Racing thoughts
  • Rapid speech
  • Higher or lower energy levels than usual
  • Sleep problems
  • Impulsive behaviors
If some of the above signs sound familiar, you may be experiencing a mood disorder. Understanding the potential causes of mood disorders can provide further insight, which is addressed next. 

What Causes Mood Disorders?

It’s estimated that approximately one in five U.S. adults experiences a mood disorder at some point in their lives, with depression affecting over 7% of adults every year.5,6 Yet mood disorders don’t have a single cause; instead, they can develop from several factors, including:6

  • Biology:     Chemical messengers in the brain called “neurotransmitters” play an essential role in mood regulation
  • Genetics: Research indicates that people with a strong family history of mood disorders may be more likely to develop a mood disorder themselves 
  • Life events: Stressful changes, such as the death of a loved one, trauma, or abuse, are risk factors for developing mood disorders
  • Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions and medications can lead to mood disorders
While outpatient support may be enough for people with milder symptoms, mood disorder inpatient treatment can provide a higher level of care and treatment for those experiencing severe effects. In fact, inpatient support for mood disorder recovery can be vital for people in crisis, as, unfortunately, 50%-66% of all suicides are completed by people with a mood disorder.7

While understanding the causes is important, receiving the right support, such as the intensive therapeutic treatments that residential mood disorder programs offer, is crucial for leading stable and fulfilling lives. 
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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. 

When to Consider Mood Disorder Inpatient Treatment

Mood disorder symptoms can lie anywhere on a scale from manageable to severe. If symptoms significantly impact daily life or raise safety concerns, inpatient mood disorder stabilization programs may be an effective and supportive recovery option.

You may wish to consider inpatient treatment if you:8,9

  • Have suicidal thoughts or behaviors
  • Pose a danger to yourself or others
  • Have poor physical health
  • Are unable to care for yourself 
  • Have co-occurring conditions
  • Experience psychotic symptoms
  • Have not found relief through outpatient options
  • Do not have adequate social support

If any of the above rings true for you, residential treatment may be an appropriate next step. If you’re curious what inpatient care looks like, the following section takes a closer look at what you can expect. 

Mood Disorder Assessment and Testing

Proper assessments for mood disorders are a core component of effective treatment. Mood disorders respond to different therapies and approaches, which could be determined after an assessment. We encourage you to be careful of online assessments because they may be generic questions that are not reviewed by professionals.

A Mission For Michael (AMFM) Mental Health Treatment Centers provide confidential and free assessments for mood disorders. Our thorough evaluations focus on learning about your symptoms and mental health history so that we can develop a personalized treatment plan. To get started with your free assessment, we encourage you to call AMFM today!

Call Now: (866) 478-4383

Mood Disorder Inpatient Therapy Programs – What to Expect

Mood disorder inpatient treatment centers are designed to be calm, safe, restorative spaces where you can begin your recovery journey. Rather than being the cold or clinical settings that people often see on TV shows or in movies, the majority of residential programs are warm and welcoming to promote healing. 

For example, you can expect to find private or shared bedrooms, comfortable shared spaces for activities and personal reflection, and access to mental health professionals and support staff 24/7. 

A daily routine in a residential treatment center provides structure and minimizes stress to enhance recovery. Additionally, a personalized treatment plan is usually created based on your needs and personal well-being goals, which will be reflected in your daily routine. 

A typical day often includes inpatient counseling for mood disorder recovery, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or interpersonal and social rhythm therapy.9 Further, evidence-based therapies may be provided as one-to-one or group sessions, or more commonly, a combination of both. Facilities may also integrate holistic therapies to complement your recovery and promote mental, physical, and spiritual healing. For instance, facilities may offer art therapy, animal-assisted therapy, or yoga therapy.10

Additionally, depending on your needs, a qualified mental health professional may provide medication management to support symptomatic relief. 

Finally, inpatient programs also often offer recreational activities to support your wellness and healing. For instance, some of the off-site experiences offered at AMFM treatment centers include bowling, mini-golf, and visits to attractions such as museums. 

In terms of program duration, treatment for mood disorder recovery can range in length, from a weekend to several months, depending on your needs. 

Now that you have a better idea of what residential treatment involves, let’s explore how this higher level of care can make a difference to your healing. 

Find Mental Health Treatment Programs

A Mission For Michael (AMFM) provides treatment for adults experiencing various conditions. Mental Health support is a phone call away – call 866-478-4383 to learn about our current treatment options.

California Locations

See our residences in Southern California’s Orange County & San Diego County.

Carlsbad - Goldenbush
Female identifying house with double occupancy rooms. Features large rooms, updated interior, & covered seating in backyard.
Carlsbad - Hoover
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Dana Point - Blue Lantern
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Dana Point - Crystal Lantern
Female identifying house with double occupancy rooms. Includes large rooms, updated interior, & private treatment rooms.
Fallbrook - North Ridge
Male identifying house with double occupancy rooms. Features a tennis court, pool, and game area.
Fallbrook - Peony
Female identifying house with double occupancy rooms. Secluded area with library, large backyard, and pool.
Laguna Hills - Waterwheel
Female identifying house with double occupancy rooms. Features large rooms, updated interior, & large backyard.
Laguna Niguel - Campeon
Male identifying house with double occupancy rooms. Features large rooms, updated interior, & covered seating in backyard.
Lake Forest - Grayston
Male identifying house with double occupancy rooms. Features large rooms, updated interior, & covered seating in backyard.
Lake Forest - Sunnybrook
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San Juan Capistrano - Banderas
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San Juan Capistrano - Valencia
Female identifying house with double occupancy rooms. Features large rooms, updated interior, & covered seating in backyard.
Minnesota Locations

Take a look at our homes on the east side of the Metro area in Washington County.

Stillwater - Arcola
Male mental health residential house with double and single occupancy rooms. Secluded area with large backyard many dedicated spaces for therapy.
Stillwater - Dellwood
Female mental health residential house with double and single occupancy rooms. Beautifully appointed, relaxing atmosphere for healing.
Virginia Locations

View our facilities in Fairfax County, VA within the DC metro area.

Annandale - Rebel Rose
Female identifying house with single and double occupancy rooms. Secluded area with movie theater, on a large property.
Fairfax Station - Derbyshire
Male only house with double occupancy rooms. Secluded area with large rooms, gorgeous interior, and music/game room.
Great Falls - Kellie Jean
Gender Inclusive house with double and single occupancy rooms. Secluded area with movie theater, game room, and large property.
Vienna - Browns Mill
Gender Inclusive property, Restoring hope and well-being, AMFM Mental Health Treatment provides compassionate care in a peaceful setting in Vienna, Virginia.
Vienna - Corsica
Gender Inclusive house with double and single occupancy rooms. Secluded area with large backyard, movie theater, and dedicated spaces for therapy.
Vienna - Lawyers
Male identifying house with double and single occupancy rooms. Secluded area with large backyard many dedicated spaces for therapy.

Benefits of Residential Treatment for Mood Disorder Symptoms

Moving into a mood disorder inpatient treatment center allows you access to supports that are not always possible to provide in outpatient services. 

Some of the key advantages of this higher-level support are:

  • Quicker response to crisis situations (such as self-harm or suicidal thoughts)
  • Being in a safe, supportive, structured space away from daily triggers or distractions, so you can focus on recovery
  • 24/7 intensive and focused care from healthcare professionals
  • Access to a range of evidence-based and holistic therapies
  • Peer support from others in the program, fostering a sense of community and understanding
Plus, studies show that inpatient treatment can significantly reduce depression symptoms and can have a superior effect on chronic depression compared to standard outpatient treatment.11,12

As you may gather, inpatient programs can provide a high level of support and treatment to promote stabilization, build resilience, and create a strong base for recovery. While inpatient treatment can provide the critical support needed for healing, understanding how the transition back to outpatient care works can help maintain your progress long-term. 

Life After Mood Disorder Inpatient Treatment

Making the transition from mood disorder residential recovery programs back to everyday life is an important step for long-term healing. Therefore, an aftercare plan is often crucial for reinforcing and maintaining the skills and support you gained as an inpatient. 

For example, step-down programs, such as partial hospitalization programs (PHPs) and intensive outpatient programs (IOPs), can offer continuing support, easing you back into your regular routines. 

Aftercare plans are tailored to your specific needs, but commonly include:

  • Regular therapy sessions: Either individual or group therapy to continue your recovery journey. This may be weekly through standard outpatient services, or more frequently through IOPs and PHPs 
  • Medication management: To monitor and adjust medication doses if necessary
  • Building a support system: Peer support groups are important for healing, fostering a sense of community, understanding, and ensuring connection 
  • Self-care: Maintaining a structured routine with healthy habits is beneficial for mental health

Transitioning from inpatient care to outpatient care is vital for achieving a successful recovery while ensuring that you are supported every step of the way. 

As you move forward, finding the right treatment center is essential for your healing. The next section may help you to decide the best setting for your recovery. 

Finding the Best Inpatient Programs for Mood Disorders

Choosing the right mood disorder recovery center is an important decision because the environment can significantly affect your recovery. Comfort, safety, and the presence of the right support can impact how engaged you are in the program. 

With this in mind, the following are some key factors you may want to consider:

  • Specialization in mood disorder treatment: Ensure the center has experience treating conditions such as depression or bipolar disorder, and check whether they offer personalized treatment care plans 
  • Accreditation: Look for centers that are accredited by recognized bodies such as The Joint Commission. It means that the center has been assessed externally and is found to provide safe, high-quality care 
  • Multidisciplinary approach to care: Effective treatment programs involve a team of healthcare professionals, such as therapists, psychiatrists, and nurses, working together to support your recovery 
  • Therapies and treatment options: Check whether evidence-based or holistic treatment options are offered 
  • Aftercare planning: The treatment center should offer step-down options like PHP or IOP to support your transition back to outpatient care
  • Environment and facilities: Consider the facilities offered at treatment centers and where the facilities are located. Other practical considerations, such as sleeping arrangements and dietary requirements, may also be important to weigh up 
  • Financial requirements: Ask about whether the treatment center accepts your insurance. Or, if you’re paying privately, check what costs are involved.

Once you’ve identified your needs and preferences, you can feel better prepared to take the next step toward recovery. 

Find Hope and Support With AMFM

Living with depression or bipolar disorder is often challenging, but with the right support and treatment, healing is possible. If you are seeking mood disorder crisis stabilization inpatient programs, we’re here to support you. 

At AMFM’s treatment centers, we offer personalized treatment plans, evidence-based approaches, and holistic care to help you find long-lasting wellness. In our residential facilities, you’ll find a safe, nurturing environment designed to help you stabilize and begin building a healthier future. 

Taking the first step is often the hardest part of progress, but it’s also the most important. Contact us today to find out how we can support your healing journey. 

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  1. American Psychological Association (APA). (2023, November 15). Mood Disorders. APA Dictionary of Psychology.  https://dictionary.apa.org/mood-disorder
  2. Cleveland Clinic. (2025, September 17). Mood disorders. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17843-mood-disorders
  3. Spijker, J., & Claes, S. (2014). Mood disorders in the DSM-5. Tijdschrift voor Psychiatrie, 56(3), 173–176. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24643826/
  4. Mayo Clinic. (2024, January 31). Mood disorders – Symptoms and causes.  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/mood-disorders/symptoms-causes/syc-20365057
  5. National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). (n.d.). Any mood disorder. Retrieved October 21, 2025, from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/any-mood-disorder
  6. Sekhon, S., & Gupta, V. (2023, May 8). Mood disorder. StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK558911/
  7. Isometsä, E. (2014). Suicidal Behaviour in Mood Disorders—Who, When, and Why? The Canadian Journal of Psychiatry, 59(3), 120–130. https://doi.org/10.1177/070674371405900303
  8. Grover, S., Gautam, S., Jain, A., Gautam, M., & Vahia, V. (2017). Clinical Practice Guidelines for the management of depression. Indian Journal of Psychiatry, 59(5), 34. https://doi.org/10.4103/0019-5545.196973
  9. Chotinaiwattarakul, W., O’Brien, L. M., Fan, L., & Chervin, R. D. (2009). Fatigue, tiredness, and lack of energy improve with treatment for OSA. Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, 5(3), 222–227. Retrieved from https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/286342-treatment?form=fpf
  10. Mayer, B. A. (2022, February 9). Holistic therapy: treating body, mind, and spirit for whole person healing. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/holistic-therapy#who-should-try-it
  11. Eielsen, M., Ulvenes, P. G., Røssberg, J. I., Høstmælingen, A., Soma, C. S., & Wampold, B. E. (2022). The Effectiveness of an Intensive Inpatient Psychotherapy Program for Chronic Depression: A naturalistic comparison with wait list. BMC Psychiatry, 22(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-022-04381-5
  12. Maß, R., Backhaus, K., Hestermann, D., Balzer, C., & Szelies, M. (2019). Inpatient treatment decreases depression but antidepressants may not contribute. A prospective quasi-experimental study. Comprehensive Psychiatry, 94, 152124. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.comppsych.2019.152124