If you seek substance abuse or addiction treatment, you are not alone. Millions of Americans suffer from substance use disorder (SUD), which occurs on a spectrum from mild to severe. For individuals with severe addiction, inpatient treatment is the recommended course. However, an outpatient drug rehab program is often ideal for those with milder SUD or when inpatient treatment is not an option.
A medically supervised drug and alcohol detox center should be the first step in any alcohol or drug addiction treatment program, whether inpatient or outpatient. The real work of recovery can only begin when your body and brain are physically free from alcohol and drugs.
Is an Outpatient Drug Rehab Program Right for You?
The effects of substance abuse and addiction are unique to each individual and his or her circumstances. Choosing the best alcohol or drug addiction treatment program starts with understanding what will work best for you and your individual needs. Individuals who suffer from moderate to severe SUD will best benefit from inpatient treatment to receive intensive, 24-hour care. Often, a substance use disorder causes disruptions in life, but overall, individuals can function well enough to get by. Other times, a substance use disorder is less noticeable, and individuals silently struggle to control their drug and alcohol use while appearing to be OK outwardly.
An outpatient drug rehab program usually offers the same treatments and therapies as inpatient drug rehab but in a less restrictive environment. Successful outcomes from an outpatient drug rehab program rely on clients being motivated to achieve recovery and commit to the process. Individuals most likely to benefit from outpatient drug rehab programs include those who:
- Have mild to moderate substance abuse or addiction
- Have a lower risk of severe withdrawal symptoms
- Cannot afford inpatient treatment
- Cannot leave family, work, or school obligations
- Have a stable living situation and strong support network
- Are transitioning from a higher level of treatment
- Have relapsed or otherwise need continuing support
In addition to individualized treatment for your substance use disorder, an outpatient drug rehab program can provide services such as family therapy, career counseling, life skills training, relapse prevention, and a sober support network.
What Are the Benefits of an Outpatient Drug Rehab Program?
An outpatient rehab program is a substance use disorder treatment option where clients receive treatment during the day and return home at night. Different levels of outpatient rehab require various time and attendance commitments. An intake assessment helps your treatment team recommend the level of care best suited to your needs. Because clients have access to alcohol and drugs outside of sessions, outpatient treatment requires a high level of determination to stay sober. There are numerous benefits to an outpatient drug rehab program for those committed to recovery, including:
- Flexibility – An outpatient program allows you to fit treatment into your schedule so that you can meet the demands of work, family, and other responsibilities. For many, this removes obstacles to seeking treatment.
- Affordability – Inpatient rehab is expensive, and many people do not have the insurance, savings, or ability to lose their income to attend. Outpatient rehab programs are more affordable and allow you to keep working.
- Real-life practice – With outpatient rehab, you can practice the skills and techniques you are learning in treatment right away, helping you incorporate them into daily life. Furthermore, your therapist can provide feedback to help you master these skills as you report daily on how things are going.
- Support from loved ones – For many, support from friends and family is vital to the recovery process. Family therapy in outpatient rehab guides the whole family, not just the individual in treatment.
- Built-in support network – An outpatient rehab program offers peer and community support. A support network of like-minded people with similar goals provides encouragement, feedback, and security and increases the chances of remaining sober.
Effective outpatient drug rehab programs utilize evidence-based and holistic therapies that are proven effective and designed to treat the mind, body, and spirit, which are all damaged by substance abuse and addiction.
An Outpatient Drug Rehab Program Benefits Many
Substance use disorders impact everyone differently. Therefore, we need multiple treatment options. While inpatient drug rehab programs are a critical resource, this option is not appropriate for everyone. Outpatient drug rehab programs benefit many individuals who do not require or cannot attend inpatient rehab. Discuss the benefits of an outpatient drug rehab program with an intake specialist when seeking substance abuse or addiction treatment.
