So your doctor is recommending a Partial Hospitalization Program after your inpatient stay? Your head is probably spinning with questions right now. How will this work with the kids? What does a typical day even look like? Let’s break it down together.
What Exactly Is PHP Anyway?
Here’s the thing about a PHP program – it’s like the middle ground between being in the hospital and regular weekly therapy. You’re getting serious, intensive treatment, but you get to go home every night to tuck your kids into bed.
Most programs have you there about 4-8 hours a day, usually Monday through Friday, sometimes Saturdays too. You’re looking at individual therapy, group sessions, maybe some family work, medication check-ins – the whole nine yards. It’s comprehensive care without having to be away from your family overnight.
Think of it this way: you’re getting hospital-level treatment intensity, but you’re still mom at dinnertime.
Your New Daily Routine
Your days are going to look pretty structured for a while. You might start with a morning check-in, move through different therapy groups, work one-on-one with your therapist, and maybe do some art therapy or other hands-on activities.
The routine can actually be a lifesaver when you’re feeling all over the place. Many moms find they appreciate having that solid structure during the day, then being able to shift back into mom mode for bedtime stories and homework help.
But let’s be real – you’re going to be tired. This work is intense.
The Childcare Challenge
Okay, let’s talk about the elephant in the room. What do you do with your kids while you’re in treatment? This is probably your biggest worry right now, and that’s completely normal.
You’re going to need help, and that’s okay. Here are some ideas that have worked for other moms:
- Family members who can step in regularly
- Trading childcare with other parents (maybe even someone from your program)
- Looking into community programs or drop-in childcare
- Asking your treatment team for local resources – they usually have good connections
Yes, it might cost money you don’t have. Yes, it’s another thing to coordinate. But remember – you can’t pour from an empty cup.
Talking to Your Kids About This
Your kids are going to notice you’re gone more during the day. How you explain it depends on their ages, but honesty (in kid-friendly terms) usually works best.
For little ones, something like “Mommy is going to a special place to learn how to feel better” often does the trick. Older kids can handle more – they might actually be relieved to know you’re getting help.
Some programs will let family members participate in sessions when it makes sense. Your kids might benefit from understanding what you’re going through, and honestly, they might have some things they want to talk about too.
Making PHP Work for Your Family
Some days are going to be really hard. You’ll be emotionally drained from treatment, then have to come home and be present for your family. That’s a lot.
Here’s what other moms have learned: be upfront with your treatment team about your mom concerns. They get it, and they can help you figure out strategies that actually work for your life.
Maybe that means scheduling individual sessions when you’re not completely wiped out. Maybe it means having backup plans for really tough days. Maybe it means accepting that takeout pizza is a perfectly fine dinner on program days.
The guilt is real, but try to remember this: your kids need a healthy mom more than they need a mom who’s available 24/7 but struggling.
Trust the process, even on the days when it feels like too much. The skills you’re learning and the healing you’re doing will ripple out to benefit your whole family. You’ve got this, mama.
Deborah Sextoneer brought her passion for community building and user engagement to Dazzling Holly Moms, playing a vital part in the platform's development. With her keen understanding of the challenges mothers face, Deborah ensured that the content resonates with moms and addresses their diverse needs. Her efforts in creating interactive features and fostering a supportive community have made Dazzling Holly Moms a go-to platform for mothers looking for practical advice and a sense of belonging. Deborah’s contributions have been essential to the project's ongoing success.