Although addiction to drugs and alcohol can be serious, it can be manageable. With proper treatment and support, the affected individual can successfully recover. When people think of drug rehab, they often think of inpatient facilities. However, outpatient treatment is a viable option for many to consider.
What is Outpatient Rehabilitation?
Unlike inpatient facilities, which usually involve onsite living arrangements, outpatient rehabilitation doesn’t require people to live in a facility. Instead, they can live in their own home. This type of treatment provides a personalized treatment plan. An outpatient alcohol rehab center will allow individuals to remain in their homes while attending treatment sessions at a local facility.
Outpatient Vs Inpatient Rehab Facilities
The main difference between outpatient and inpatient rehabilitation is the type of treatment that’s involved. Inpatient facilities typically last for about 28 to 90 days. This type of facility provides more technical and therapeutic support, and it’s usually the best option for people with severe addictions to alcohol and drugs. Inpatient treatment allows patients to focus on their recovery and avoid negative influences from outside their environment.
Because outpatient facilities allow patients to live at home, this type of treatment can be perfect for people with severe addictions who have already completed inpatient programs. Despite the varying concepts of these two types of rehabilitation, they have the potential to help individuals with addiction.
How Outpatient Rehabilitation Works
People who sign up for an outpatient program will typically live at home, and they will then go to a rehabilitation facility for treatment. The program’s commitment varies, and it may also provide medical care.
The individual with an addiction problem and a staff member will talk about a treatment plan, which will include goals to improve the effectiveness of the program. The staff member will also ask about the patient’s medical history, employment, mental health condition, and other issues.
Once the treatment plan has been established, patients are informed about the rules that they’ll be expected to follow throughout their stay. For instance, some outpatient drug rehabilitation programs require that new applicants submit to random drug tests to make sure that they’re not using illicit substances while they’re in the program.
When to Consider Outpatient Rehab?
People who are searching for drug rehab near their homes will come across various options. The exact treatment for a particular addiction will vary depending on its severity. People with mild to moderate addiction problems are most likely to benefit from outpatient rehabilitation. It’s a good option for people who have a strong support system and are committed to staying in treatment. It allows them to avoid withdrawal symptoms and maintain their recovery.
If a loved one has a serious drug or alcohol addiction, outpatient rehabilitation might not be the best option. This type of facility can’t provide the necessary supervision and prevent patients from experiencing withdrawal symptoms. In addition, it can’t help people with co-occurring mental health conditions or a poor support system. People with these conditions are less likely to recover successfully after going through an outpatient program.
Benefits of Outpatient Rehab Facilities
Outpatient rehabilitation provides various advantages, such as allowing people to maintain their employment while getting treatment. It’s cheaper than inpatient facilities, and it can be more beneficial for people who have a tight budget.
One of the main advantages of outpatient rehabilitation is its ability to build a strong support system. This type of facility also provides various other benefits, such as connecting patients with sober friends and support groups.
Different outpatient programs provide varying treatment plans for different substance use disorders. For instance, the exact treatment for an individual with a serious drug problem will vary depending on its severity and stage of recovery.
How Long Does Treatment Last?
The average length of an outpatient program is ten weeks, though it can vary depending on the facility and the type of therapy that’s used. Most programs start with a step-down approach, which means that fewer therapy sessions are scheduled as the patient continues to improve.
Final Thoughts
Treatment for alcohol and drug addiction doesn’t have to be limited to an inpatient facility. Instead, it can be provided in various forms, such as outpatient programs that allow people to stay at home while treating their addictions.
