Summer is the season of sunshine, longer days and hopefully, a little more time for yourself. However, even with the promise of lazy days, summer can get packed with trips, parties and trying to do all the things. That’s why having a sustainable self-care routine that actually lasts, one that fits into your life, is important. A Virtual Partial Hospitalization Program (vPHP) could be your secret key for staying well all summer long. 

Here’s why summer is a smart time to start a vPHP:

• More availability — Summer can be a time when your schedule is more open, making it easier to commit to a structured program.
• Time to rest – With fewer outside stressors, summer can be the perfect opportunity to focus inward and start the healing process.
• Proactive care — For those who have moderate-to-severe symptoms now, vPHP can help prevent worsening symptoms before the new school year or fall responsibilities kick in. 

Rethinking intensive support: What is vPHP?

A Virtual Partial Hospitalization Program (vPHP) is a type of structured, comprehensive mental health treatment delivered online. It offers a higher level of care than traditional weekly therapy. It includes up to six hours of programming during weekdays. Think of it as a day program for mental health. You can engage in group therapy, individual sessions and skills-building activities , all from the convenience and comfort of your own home. Sometimes, medication management is included.

While it may sound intensive, vPHP can actually enhance your summer self-care routine. It can provide the support you need to navigate challenges while still allowing you to participate in summer activities and maintain your daily life. 

Why vPHP can be a sustainable summer self-care ally

Self-care isn’t just about bubble baths and skincare routines. True self-care is about building healthy habits and coping skills that support your mental, emotional and physical well-being. A vPHP can be a key part of that. Here’s how a vPHP can seamlessly integrate into your summer for a lasting sense of well-being:

• Keeping structure amid summer changes — Summer often throws regular routines out of whack. A vPHP provides a consistent structure with scheduled therapy sessions. It helps you keep a focus on your mental health even when your days feel less predictable. This dedicated time for self-reflection and skill-building can be a grounding force during a potentially chaotic season. 
• Providing accessible support — One of the biggest advantages of a virtual program is its portability. Whether you’re on a family vacation, visiting friends or enjoying a staycation, you can typically access your vPHP sessions. Just be sure you have a reliable internet connection and a private space. This eliminates the barrier of physical location. It ensure continuity of care without interrupting your summer plans. However, patients must be physically located in a state where the program and clinicians are licensed. This is due to compliance with telehealth regulations. 
• Integrating therapy with real-life practice — Unlike inpatient programs, vPHP allows you to stay home and practice the coping skills and strategies you learn in real-time. Summer provides opportunities to apply these skills in social situations, family dynamics and moments of potential stress. It can lead to more effective and sustainable skills integration.  
• Creating tailored treatment that adapts to your needs — vPHP treatment often involves a multidisciplinary team of professionals who work with you to create a personalized treatment plan. This plan can be adapted to address specific summer-related stressors or challenges. They can ensure that the support you receive is relevant and timely. 
• Building skills for long-term well-being — The focus of vPHP goes beyond quick symptom relief. It also focuses on equipping you with lasting skills to manage your mental health. This includes healthy coping skills for stress, anxiety and low moods. You’ll also learn communication and relationship skills. These are valuable tools for navigating the ups and downs of summer and beyond. 
• Fostering connection and community — Group therapy, a core component of most vPHP treatments, provides a supportive environment to connect with others facing similar challenges. Sharing experiences with and learning from your peers can reduce feelings of isolation. It also creates a sense of community. It can be particularly beneficial during times when your social dynamics are shifting. 
• Prioritizing self-care as a key part of recovery — vPHPs emphasize a holistic approach to well-being. They often incorporate elements of self-care such as mindfulness practices, stress management techniques and healthy lifestyle recommendations. By actively participating in your treatment, you’re prioritizing your self-care within a structured and supportive framework. 

Signs that vPHP may be a good fit

If you’re unsure whether you or someone you care about could benefit from a vPHP, here are a few signs to watch for:

• Struggling to manage anxiety or depression on your own
• Feeling overwhelmed or unable to keep up with responsibilities
• Noticing unhealthy coping habits
• Experiencing a recent major life change, trauma or loss
• Needing more support than traditional therapy offers

Remember, you don’t have to wait until things are really bad. Virtual PHP and self-care are proactive steps toward wellness, not just a response to crisis. 

Make this summer a season of healing with Lightfully’s help 

At Lightfully, our Virtual Partial Hospitalization Program goes beyond symptom management. We offer whole-person-centered care provided by deeply compassionate experts. They use the most effective components from evidence-based techniques. Using our Precision Care Model, we develop custom-tailored treatment plans that focus on you, not just your diagnosis. 

We provide care to support every aspect of your life, including emotional, physical, social and cognitive. Whether you’re preparing for college, navigating a tough emotional season or just want to build mental resilience, Lightfully is here to support you. 

Change is possible. When you’re ready to take the first step to make your summer a season of healing, reach out to our Admissions Concierge Team. We’ll take the next steps together, toward the fullest, brightest version of you.