Q: What’s the difference between inpatient and outpatient behavioral health care?

Inpatient care is recommended when symptoms have reached a crisis level and a person needs 24/7 care in a safe, structured environment. Outpatient care allows individuals to receive treatment while continuing daily activities and may include therapy, structured programs like PHP or IOP, group support and specialty treatments.

Question 1

What is behavioral and mental health care?

Accepted Answer

Behavioral and mental health care focuses on how conditions affecting the mind, emotions and behavior impact daily life. This includes care for concerns such as depression, anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, thought disorders and stress‑related conditions. At OhioHealth, behavioral and mental health care is part of our comprehensive approach to whole‑person and brain health.

Question 2

What services does OhioHealth offer for behavioral and mental health care?

Accepted Answer

OhioHealth provides a full continuum of behavioral and mental health services, including inpatient care, outpatient programs, therapy, medication management, advanced treatments such as TMS and ECT, mindfulness programs, crisis assessment and ongoing support through classes and support groups.

Question 3

What’s the difference between inpatient and outpatient behavioral health care?

Accepted Answer

Inpatient care is recommended when symptoms have reached a crisis level and a person needs 24/7 care in a safe, structured environment.
Outpatient care allows individuals to receive treatment while continuing daily activities and may include therapy, structured programs like PHP or IOP, group support and specialty treatments.

Question 4

How do I know which level of care is right for me or my loved one?

Accepted Answer

The appropriate level of care depends on symptom severity, safety concerns, daily functioning and treatment history. A behavioral health assessment helps determine whether inpatient care, outpatient services or a higher‑level structured program is the best fit. OhioHealth teams work with patients and families to guide next steps.

Question 5

Do I need a referral to receive behavioral health services at OhioHealth?

Accepted Answer

Some services may require a referral, while others allow direct scheduling. Certain outpatient consultation or transition services accept referrals only from within OhioHealth. Your primary care provider or another OhioHealth clinician can help determine the best referral pathway.

Question 6

What conditions are treated through behavioral and mental health services?

Accepted Answer

Behavioral and mental health care may support individuals experiencing:

Depression and mood disorders
Anxiety and panic disorders
Trauma‑related conditions
Thought or perception challenges
Behavioral or emotional changes affecting daily life

Care plans are individualized and may include therapy, medication, group programs or advanced treatment options.

Question 7

What is transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy?

Accepted Answer

TMS is a non‑invasive outpatient treatment that uses focused magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. It’s commonly used to help treat depression and has a long‑standing record of safety. Treatments are performed without surgery or anesthesia.

Question 8

What is electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)?

Accepted Answer

ECT is a safe, effective treatment option for certain psychiatric conditions, including severe depression and other mood disorders. Treatment is carefully planned with a physician team, and the number of sessions varies based on individual needs and response to care.

Question 9

Are there programs for people who need more structure than weekly therapy?

Accepted Answer

Yes. OhioHealth offers structured outpatient programs such as:

Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP)
Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP)

These programs provide group‑based treatment for individuals managing more acute symptoms while helping them stabilize and improve daily functioning.

Question 10

Does OhioHealth offer classes or support groups?

Accepted Answer

Yes. OhioHealth offers a variety of classes and support groups designed to provide education, coping tools and connection for individuals and families facing mental health challenges. These programs complement clinical care and support long‑term well‑being.

Question 11

Where can I find immediate help during a mental health crisis?

Accepted Answer

24‑hour crisis, suicide prevention and sexual assault support is available if you or someone you know needs immediate help:

National Resources

Suicide Prevention Hotline: Call (800) 273‑TALK (8255)
RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network): Call (800) 656‑HOPE (4673)

Central Ohio & Regional Resources

Sexual Assault Response Network of Central Ohio (SARNCO) 24‑Hour Rape Helpline: (614) 267‑7020
Ohio Sexual Violence Helpline: (844) OHIO‑HELP
Franklin County NetCare Crisis Link: (614) 276‑CARE (2273)
Franklin County Suicide Prevention Coalition:(614) 221‑5445
Richland Mental Health & Recovery Hotline: (419) 522‑HELP (43578)
Marion Area Counseling Center Suicide Hotline: (740) 383‑2273

If you’ve experienced sexual assault, SARNCO provides medical advocacy and emotional support. Call (614) 267‑7020 or (800) 656‑HOPE for immediate assistance.

Question 12

How do I get started with behavioral and mental health care at OhioHealth?

Accepted Answer

Getting started begins with reaching out for an assessment, speaking with your provider or contacting OhioHealth behavioral and mental health services. From there, a care team can help guide you to the right services and level of support.

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Crisis Resources

National Resources

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Frequently asked questions about behavioral and mental health services

Behavioral andMental Health