Home/Glossary/Inpatient Psychiatric Hospitalization
Back to Glossary

Inpatient Psychiatric Hospitalization

Mental Health

24-hour care in locked psychiatric unit for people in acute crisis posing danger to themselves or others, or unable to care for themselves. Typical stay 5-10 days focused on stabilization through medication adjustment, safety, and discharge planning.

More Mental Health Terms

ADHD

Neurodevelopmental disorder with persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity affecting functioning. Three presentations: predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive, or combined. Affects children and adults, impacting academic, occupational, and social functioning.

Antipsychotics

Medications affecting dopamine and serotonin used for schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and treatment-resistant depression. Examples include risperidone (Risperdal), quetiapine (Seroquel), aripiprazole (Abilify). Require regular metabolic monitoring.

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Neurodevelopmental condition affecting social communication and interaction, with restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior or interests. "Spectrum" reflects wide variation in challenges and strengths. Early intervention improves outcomes.

Benzodiazepines

Fast-acting anti-anxiety medications that enhance GABA (calming neurotransmitter) activity. Used for short-term anxiety relief, panic attacks, and insomnia. Examples include alprazolam (Xanax), lorazepam (Ativan), clonazepam (Klonopin). Habit-forming with potential for dependence.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

A structured, goal-oriented therapy focusing on the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. CBT helps identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors, teaching practical coping skills. Highly effective for anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, and many other conditions.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy

Originally developed for borderline personality disorder, DBT combines CBT with mindfulness practices. Teaches four core skills: mindfulness (staying present), distress tolerance (coping with crisis), emotion regulation (managing intense feelings), and interpersonal effectiveness (healthy relationships).

Understanding Your Benefits Made Easy

Use our tools to navigate Minnesota PFML and health insurance