A careful clinical evaluation by a psychiatrist or other skilled physician will lead to the determination of the level of care that is most appropriate for you.3 Outpatient care will usually be the most suitable setting for your treatment. If you are at risk for self-harm, or harm to others, you may require brief hospitalization. If this is not the case, but your symptoms are severe and cannot be managed effectively on an outpatient basis, you may require a period of residential care.
At times, making the best decision on the appropriate level of care can be difficult, especially early in the treatment process when your familiarity with your primary clinician is limited. A change in level of care may be indicated by your condition at any time during the treatment process, especially if there is a risk of self-harm or harm to others.
