September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, marking a time to pause, pay attention, and talk openly about an issue that too many people face in silence.
This month, we want to share what meaningful, ongoing support looks like after a crisis, because surviving a difficult moment is just the beginning. Intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization programs exist specifically to help people find stability, connection, and a path forward.
If you or someone you love is struggling right now, please know that help is available. You can reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline anytime by calling or texting 988.
Why Suicide Prevention Awareness Month Matters
Suicide is one of the leading causes of death in the United States, yet it remains one of the most under-discussed mental health emergencies. Stigma, silence, and a lack of awareness about available resources keep too many people from reaching out. At the same time, friends and loved ones may now know the best way to help someone they love who is struggling.
Suicide Prevention Awareness Month is an opportunity to change that, normalizing conversations about mental health and making sure people know they don’t have to navigate the hardest moments alone.
Connections Wellness Group offers same-day mental health assessments in Texas, because when someone is ready to reach out, it’s important they get the support they need.
Recognizing When Someone Needs a Higher Level of Care
Signs that someone may need more than outpatient therapy include:
- Expressing thoughts of suicide or self-harm, even passively
- Withdrawing from people they’re close to or activities they used to enjoy
- Giving away belongings or saying goodbye in ways that feel final
- A noticeable and sudden shift in mood, from deepening despair to unexpected calm after a difficult period
- Increasing substance use as a way to cope
- Difficulty functioning at work, school, or home
- A recent crisis event such as a hospitalization, ER visit, or traumatic loss
If any of these feel familiar, for yourself or for someone you care about, please don’t wait for things to get worse. Reaching out early is always the right call.
How PHP and IOP Support People Through Crisis and Recovery
The days and weeks following a mental health emergency are often when people are most vulnerable and most in need of consistent, structured support. That’s when intensive group therapy, including partial hospitalization programs (PHP) and intensive outpatient programs (IOP) can make a big difference.
Our PHP and IOP programs provide structure with daily therapeutic contact, medication oversight, safety planning, and perhaps most importantly, the experience of being genuinely seen by a consistent group of people who understand.
Here’s how the two levels of care differ:
| What It Provides | PHP (Partial Hospitalization) | IOP (Intensive Outpatient) |
| Daily structure | 5 days/week, several hours/day | 3–5 days/week, fewer hours/day |
| Medication management | Provider visits ~2x/week | Less frequent, as clinically needed |
| Safety planning & monitoring | Daily clinical contact, close monitoring | Regular but less frequent check-ins |
| Typical entry point | Step-down from ER visit or inpatient stay, or higher-acuity crisis | Step-down from PHP, or stabilizing without ER/inpatient involvement |
| Connection & reduced isolation | Daily group therapy, consistent peer support | Group therapy several days/week |
| Best fit during crisis recovery | Needs daily oversight to stay safe and stable | Safe at home, needs structured ongoing support |
Both IOP and PHP incorporate cognitive behavioral therapy for suicidal thoughts, dual diagnosis treatment for co-occurring conditions, and accelerated group therapy that builds genuine peer connection.
Getting Support in North Texas: Fort Worth, McKinney, Plano & Beyond
We provide mental health crisis support throughout the DFW area, including Fort Worth, McKinney, Plano, and surrounding communities. Virtual mental health consultation is also available across Texas for those who prefer to start from home or who aren’t able to travel to a clinic. We offer same-day assessments so you get the supportive experience you need.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crisis Support, PHP & IOP
What should I do if a loved one tells me they’re having suicidal thoughts?
Take it seriously, stay with them, and listen without judgment. If they’re in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest ER. If they’re struggling but stable, call or text 988 to reach a crisis counselor, or contact us for a same-day assessment.
What’s the difference between PHP and IOP for someone in crisis?
PHP is the more intensive option with full days, five times a week and daily clinical contact. It’s typically the right fit after an ER visit or inpatient stay. IOP is several hours a day, three to five days a week, suited for someone who is stabilizing at home but needs consistent structured support. Your care team will help determine which level is right for your situation.
Is PHP or IOP treatment covered by insurance in Texas?
Yes, we accept most major insurance plans, and both programs are typically covered. Our team will verify your benefits before you begin so there are no surprises.
You Don’t Have to Wait for a Crisis to Get Support
The moment someone is ready to reach out is the moment that matters most. If you or someone you love is struggling, our care team is available for same-day assessments across Texas, in person throughout DFW and virtually statewide. Reach out for support today.
If you or someone you know is in immediate crisis, please call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or call 911.