Understanding the Balance: PHP and Daily Responsibilities
Managing your mental health can be a full-time effort, especially during periods of emotional distress, mood instability, or intense anxiety. For many, a PHP (Partial Hospitalization Program) offers a structured yet non-residential form of treatment that allows individuals to receive care during the day and return home at night. However, a frequent question arises for those considering this level of care: Can I continue working or going to school while attending a PHP (Partial Hospitalization Program)?
The short answer is—it depends. Every individual’s situation, schedule, and severity of symptoms are different. This article will explore what participation in a PHP entails, how it impacts your availability for school or employment, and what factors can influence your ability to balance both. For more in-depth information about this level of care, visit this PHP (Partial Hospitalization Program) resource provided by Trinity Behavioral Health.
What Is a PHP (Partial Hospitalization Program)?
A PHP (Partial Hospitalization Program) is a form of intensive outpatient treatment that bridges the gap between inpatient care and traditional therapy. Unlike inpatient programs, PHPs do not require overnight stays, allowing patients to live at home while attending treatment sessions during the day.
These programs typically run 5–7 days a week, with daily sessions lasting between 4 to 6 hours. The core components of a PHP often include:
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Individual and group therapy
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Medication management
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Psychoeducation
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
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Family support and therapy, when applicable
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Relapse prevention and coping skills training
The primary goal of PHPs is to stabilize symptoms and equip patients with the tools to manage their mental health in everyday life.
Time Commitment of a PHP
Time is one of the biggest considerations when entering a PHP. Most programs operate during standard daytime hours—commonly from 9 AM to 3 PM or 10 AM to 4 PM. This schedule is structured intentionally to mimic the rigor and routine of a full-time commitment, with the understanding that recovery requires dedicated attention.
Given this format, participating in a PHP is similar to holding a part-time job. If you’re currently employed or enrolled in school, attending a PHP may significantly limit your availability for other responsibilities.
Can You Work While in a PHP?
It is possible to work while attending a PHP, but it largely depends on your circumstances. Here are some key factors to consider:
1. Type of Job
Jobs with evening or night shifts may accommodate the PHP schedule. For instance, working in hospitality or customer service roles with non-traditional hours could make it easier to balance both.
2. Employer Flexibility
Supportive employers may allow for flexible work schedules or remote work. In some cases, individuals can utilize short-term disability, Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), or other mental health accommodations.
3. Nature of Work
Some professions are emotionally demanding or require significant mental focus. If your job involves high stress or critical decision-making, it may not be compatible with the emotional work required in a PHP.
4. Energy and Emotional Resilience
Even if your work schedule doesn’t conflict, the emotional labor of a PHP can be taxing. Many participants find themselves too emotionally drained to maintain work productivity during the program.
Can You Go to School While in a PHP?
Similar to employment, attending school while in a PHP depends on several variables:
1. School Schedule Conflicts
Most college and high school classes occur during the day, which directly conflicts with PHP hours. In such cases, students may need to reduce their course load or temporarily withdraw.
2. Leave of Absence or Medical Leave
Many educational institutions offer the option to take a leave of absence for medical or psychological reasons. This can provide the necessary space to focus fully on treatment.
3. Online or Asynchronous Classes
If your school offers online or asynchronous courses, you may be able to continue your education while attending a PHP, especially if you can manage your workload outside program hours.
4. Disability Services and Support
Engaging with your school’s counseling center or disability office may help you access academic accommodations such as extended deadlines, reduced course loads, or flexible attendance.
The Benefits of Focusing Exclusively on Recovery
While juggling work or school might be feasible for some, fully immersing yourself in your treatment may yield the best outcomes. Here’s why:
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Deeper Emotional Engagement: Without outside distractions, you can fully engage with the therapeutic process.
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Improved Program Results: Studies show that focused participation often leads to better clinical outcomes.
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Less Risk of Burnout: Trying to “do it all” can hinder progress and potentially lead to setbacks.
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Faster Stabilization: Dedicated focus allows for faster stabilization of symptoms and quicker transitions to less intensive care.
Taking time away from responsibilities may feel like a setback, but it often sets the foundation for long-term success in both mental health and future productivity.
Discussing Your Situation With Employers or Schools
Being transparent about your mental health needs—within the limits of your comfort—is often necessary to coordinate time away or adjustments. Here are tips for each setting:
With Employers:
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You do not have to disclose your diagnosis. A general statement like “I’m undergoing medical treatment” is typically sufficient.
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Use HR resources to explore mental health benefits, FMLA, or flexible scheduling.
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If available, consider short-term disability to protect your job while taking time off.
With Schools:
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Contact academic advisors and counseling services to inform them of your situation.
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Submit documentation if required to justify a medical leave or request academic adjustments.
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Know your rights: most institutions have procedures to support students facing medical issues.
Flexibility in Modern PHPs
Mental health care has evolved to meet the changing demands of modern life. Some PHPs, including options at Trinity Behavioral Health, offer more flexible formats, such as:
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Evening or Afternoon Tracks: These allow participants to receive treatment after work or school hours.
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Virtual PHPs: Conducted online, they eliminate commute time and can often be scheduled more flexibly.
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Hybrid Models: A mix of in-person and virtual programming that can adapt to your lifestyle.
If your ability to attend a traditional PHP is restricted, ask your provider if they offer any of these flexible solutions.
Tips for Managing Both PHP and Outside Responsibilities
If you must continue working or attending school while enrolled in a PHP, here are a few tips:
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Set Realistic Expectations: Recognize your limits and don’t overcommit.
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Prioritize Recovery: Remember that your mental health comes first, even when deadlines or work demands pressure you.
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Practice Good Time Management: Use calendars, reminders, and prioritization strategies.
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Lean on Your Support Network: Family, friends, mentors, and even colleagues can offer emotional and logistical support.
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Check In With Your Care Team: Talk openly with your therapists about how external responsibilities are affecting your treatment.
How Trinity Behavioral Health Supports Your Journey
At Trinity Behavioral Health, our PHP (Partial Hospitalization Program) is designed not just to treat symptoms, but to consider your life circumstances. Whether you’re a student, professional, or caregiver, we tailor care plans to support both your recovery and your responsibilities.
Our compassionate care teams work with you to determine the best course of treatment, adjusting schedules when possible, and helping coordinate external support, such as medical documentation, school letters, or employer notifications.
You don’t have to choose between recovery and your future—our programs aim to help you support both.
For more information, explore our PHP (Partial Hospitalization Program).
Conclusion: Finding the Right Balance
Can you work or attend school while enrolled in a PHP (Partial Hospitalization Program)? Technically, yes—but it depends on your unique situation. If your job or classes offer flexible hours, or if your mental health is relatively stable, balancing both may be possible. However, for many, stepping back from responsibilities during PHP allows for the most effective healing process.
Ultimately, mental health treatment is an investment in your future. By giving yourself the time and space to focus, you’re setting the stage for stronger, healthier performance in your personal and professional life later on.
FAQs
1. How long does a PHP (Partial Hospitalization Program) last?
Most PHPs last between 2 to 8 weeks, depending on the individual’s needs and progress. Programs may adjust based on treatment response.
2. Can I attend PHP part-time?
Most PHPs are structured as full-day commitments. However, some programs, including virtual or evening tracks, offer greater flexibility.
3. Will my school or employer know I’m in a PHP?
Only if you choose to disclose it. If you need leave or accommodations, you may have to provide general medical documentation, but details are confidential under HIPAA.
4. What happens after PHP ends?
After PHP, many people transition to an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), continue with weekly therapy, or return to full-time responsibilities with ongoing support.
5. Are there virtual PHPs available?
Yes. Trinity Behavioral Health and other providers offer virtual PHPs for those who need treatment but can’t attend in person. This can make it easier to balance life and recovery.
Read: Is a referral required to join a PHP (Partial Hospitalization Program)?
Read: What mental health conditions are best treated in a PHP (Partial Hospitalization Program)?