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Why is it important to get follow-up care after you have been in the hospital for a mental illness?

It is important that you get the needed follow-up care after leaving the hospital for the treatment for any illness, including a mental illness. A follow-up visit with a mental health provider like a psychiatrist, psychologist or another type of therapist will help to make sure that you are getting the right treatment and are correctly taking medicine as needed.

How soon should you receive follow-up care if you have been in the hospital for a mental illness?

You should be seen as soon as possible after being hospitalized for mental illness but you should at least be seen by a mental health provider like a psychiatrist, psychologist or another type of therapist within 30 days after leaving the hospital. This follow up visit is important to be sure that you get the right treatment after your hospital stay.

Talk with your doctor and health plan to find out about what other services are available. Many health plans offer additional support and resources for depression and other mental health conditions. These additional resources may be educational materials (online and in print), classes or support groups, or phone counseling.