A severe addiction to a substance such as oxycodone or heroin will be best treated by attending an inpatient program that helps manage detox and withdrawal symptoms. However, if you have a mild substance abuse issue that has been caught early on, an outpatient rehab program is often a good choice. It’s a great option if you want to stop using drugs or alcohol but still need to find a program that works around your schedule.
If you are considering going into a rehab program at any time, outpatient treatment could be the right decision for you. Keep reading to find out the answer to this question- what is outpatient treatment?
How Does it Work?
Outpatient rehab facilities offer alcohol and drug treatment sessions that can be scheduled at different times throughout the week and the weekend. This type of schedule allows you to get the treatment you need while still living at home and going about your normal responsibilities. If you need medication for symptoms of withdrawal, you’ll have to come in every day to receive it at a certain time.
Outpatient treatment is offered in a large variety of formats. Some of them are more intense than others. However, the basic premise is the same- a focus on education, counseling, and support.
Outpatient rehab usually falls into three categories: day programs, intensive outpatient programs, and continuing care.
Day Programs
When you need the highest level of structure and care you can get from an outpatient setting, day programs will be your best choice. You’ll have the opportunity to meet every day of the week for a few hours every day. During your time there, you’ll participate in a number of activities. This will include private and group therapy sessions, holistic activities, and biofeedback. You’ll return home after each daily session, either to your family or to a sober living facility. Day programs do require a time commitment, but they can often work around your work or school schedule if needed.
Intensive Outpatient Programs
When you first begin an intensive outpatient program, you’ll be required to commit to longer treatment plans. However, you’ll have milestones to work toward as you work hard every day. As you meet these milestones, your time commitment will start to decrease. An intensive outpatient program is a great option for people who want to stay sober but still have to work or deal with daily responsibilities. You’ll take part in one-on-one therapy sessions, group counseling, family therapy, and other 12-step or similar programs.
Continuing Care Programs
When you can manage your drug or alcohol addiction mainly on your own, you may consider the continuing care programs offered by many outpatient rehabs. These may include meetings with Narcotics Anonymous or Alcoholics Anonymous on a daily or weekly basis. Many continuing care groups are age-specific and gender-specific. Your counselor will help you find the right program for your specific needs. It’s important to continue addiction care even after you have been sober for a while.
Why Choose Outpatient Care?
Outpatient care is the best bet if you are dealing with a mild to moderate addiction. With more flexible choices, you’ll find that getting the help you need is a lot easier than you imagined. Other reasons you may consider this type of rehab include:
Money- You won’t have to pay for room, board, and meals when you choose outpatient rehab. This makes it a much more affordable option for those who need help but cannot get it due to financial difficulties. Also, many health insurance policies cover certain outpatient services.
Family- Family involvement and support are strongly encouraged while you are in treatment. It’s very important to have strong family support as you go through the program, especially since you may be coming home every day.
Flexibility- If you cannot leave your job or other responsibilities, outpatient rehab will be the best choice when you need help. You’ll be able to find a program that will work around your busy schedule.
Finding a Facility for You
It is often a difficult decision to make when you know you need rehab but are faced with so many choices. Should I try an inpatient or outpatient program? What can I expect from either? Which one will help me the most? We’re here to help you make that very important decision. Call or stop by today to find out more. We can be reached at 833-680-0165, day and night. Don’t wait any longer- we can help you get sober today!