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Information About Outpatient Drug Rehab

What is needed to succeed in outpatient drug rehab? We have established that addiction is a complex problem, one that does not have a one-size-fits-all approach. Those wanting to rid themselves of the chemical dependence of illicit substances have seen a number of new treatment options made available over the past few decades. Even though there are sporadic reports of patients recovering by themselves, the vast majority of success stories have patients who entrusted the right treatment option.

Specifics Regarding Outpatient Rehab Programs for Patients Recovering from Drug and Alcohol Addiction

Many patients decide upon inpatient rehab for a specific time, as this helps them get away from the cycle of addiction, even if it is just temporarily at first. During that time, they can focus on building a healthier life that does not include drugs or alcohol. Even though this has a proven success rate, there are a number of reasons that this may not necessarily be the right option for everyone. An alternative option that does include assistance from qualified counselors is the outpatient drug rehab program. During this program, the patient does not stay at the facility continuously.

What to Expect from Outpatient Care?

It is important to note that the exact program used in a recovery facility may differ greatly.

However, all programs tend to include the following:

Patients enrolled in the program are expected to remain abstinent from recreational drugs or alcohol.
Patients begin with an initial assessment. During this initial assessment, it is possible to determine what the needs of the patient are. This provides a basis for forming a treatment plan and goal setting.
Patients agree to a weekly number of therapy sessions.
Oftentimes there are activities and seminars that the patient is expected to attend.
While attending rehab, there are specific rules that govern the behavior of the patient. The patient may be removed from the program if they do not abide by these rules.
If the treatment plan is proving ineffective, there may be a need to modify the existing plan.
Patients are expected to share personal information with therapists. Oftentimes this happens in one-on-one settings, but may also include group sessions that include other people.

Benefits of Outpatient Drug Rehab Programs

There are a number of benefits in attending these selected rehab options, they may include:

The patient is able to remain employed or stay in school while they attend outpatient recovery. Those who would struggle to find time away from their commitments may find this to be highly advantageous.
The transition from recovery facility to home life is non-existent. Those who leave an inpatient program for the first time often have to adjust to having personal freedoms again. Unless there is an aftercare program in place, this transition can lead to a relapse. Because the patient is already going home at the end of each session, the program ending is not such a shock.
Some worry that they may be stigmatized by attending an inpatient facility. It may not be possible for someone to leave for several weeks on end without giving an actual explanation. If the patient is worried about discretion and privacy, attending an outpatient program is much easier to keep a secret.
When comparing the costs, an inpatient treatment facility is often much more expensive than an outpatient facility.
If the patient has a supportive family or sympathetic friends at home, they may be able to benefit from interacting with them when they go home every night.

Disadvantages of Outpatient Therapy

As we have stated before, not everyone might benefit from outpatient rehab. There are a number of disadvantages to consider as well:

It is only natural that those who go home unsupervised face more temptation than those who remain in inpatient rehab. Because there is no restriction on their movements, it means they have to show more determination and willpower right from the start.
Those who do not stay in rehab will find that there is far less support available. Patients at an inpatient facility have the option to talk to professionals around the clock. It may feel empowering to be in close proximity to others who all share the same goal.
When attending outpatient recovery, there is a chance that the patient will have a number of distractions. Work commitments and family life do not take a breather as the patient transitions into a sober lifestyle.
The same triggers that led to the abuse of drugs and alcohol in the first place may still be present. When trying to stay sober, worrying about potential triggers is going to serve as a distraction.
There are both physical and emotional challenges throughout the first weeks of recovery. Withdrawal symptoms may prove to be problematic for weeks after the patient has last used drugs or alcohol. During inpatient rehab, a professional can generally help with these situations. In the outside world, this level of help is unlikely.

What is Needed to Succeed in Outpatient Care?

There are clearly additional challenges to succeeding at an outpatient facility.

However, if you or someone close to you is considering this option, remember that you can increase your chances of success by adhering to the following:

There is no factor more directly related to the success of a program than the patient’s motivation to change. No matter what option of recovery they decide upon, if they have no desire to succeed, it may ultimately result in a relapse.
Having an outside support group that can help during or after treatment is always a positive step. Because these facilities have limited availability, it is a good idea to have somewhere to turn.
A good outpatient drug rehab facility will provide the patient with a number of different resources. However, it is ultimately up to the patient to make the most of these resources. The saying goes ‘you get out what you put in’.
Those not enrolled in an inpatient facility need to take responsibility for their own environment. This means avoiding things, places and people that may trigger a relapse. It may seem harsh, but spending time with the same friends you used to drink with is not a good idea.

Find the Inpatient or Outpatient Drug Rehab Option that Works for You

Finding the option that works for you is the most important step you could ever hope to take when it comes to overcoming long-term dependence. If you are unsure where to turn or what might be available, New Beginnings is here to help. Find out what you can do to turn your life around today.