Outpatient Addiction Treatment: Weighing the Pros and Cons
In outpatient addiction treatment, there are many ways to treat drug addiction, from medical detox through to counseling and behavioral therapy. Most treatments are applied during dedicated rehabilitation programs, whether residential rehab, intensive outpatient rehab, or aftercare support systems. Outpatient programs are widely available throughout the United States, including day therapies, partial hospitalization, and other forms of outpatient addiction treatment.
Pros and Cons of Outpatient Addiction Treatment
There are pros and cons associated with each type of treatment, with individual treatment centers often specializing in a particular approach.
What is Inpatient Drug Rehab?
Inpatient rehab, also known as residential rehab, is an intensive form of drug treatment where the patient lives at the treatment center for the duration of the program. Residential programs last anywhere from a couple of weeks to a few months, with the individual in question and substance of addiction greatly influencing the treatment provided. Inpatient programs are advised for anyone who is deemed to be a threat to themselves or others, along with those patients with an extensive history of drug addiction. Residential rehab is particularly useful for people recovering from a physical drug dependence, especially those who need 24-hour access to medications and medical support staff.
What is Outpatient Drug Rehab?
Outpatient rehab, sometimes referred to as intensive outpatient programs or IOP treatment, involves periodic treatment sessions while the patient lives at their usual home address. While this form of rehab is not advised for patients who need around-the-clock supervision or medical support, outpatient programs are an effective way to treat most drug abuse and dependency problems. Partial hospitalization is the most intensive form of outpatient care, with patients attending treatment sessions for at least five days each week with the possibility of evening and weekend sessions. Other forms of outpatient rehab are also available, including day treatment, individual counseling, and conventional 12-step facilitation.
Benefits of Outpatient Drug Rehab
There are two main groups of people who require access to outpatient rehab, those making a transition from inpatient rehab and those who do not require residential care. While inpatient rehab provides the most comprehensive level of drug addiction treatment, it is not necessary for all situations. Outpatient programs are more flexible and less expensive than comparable inpatient regimes, with this form of treatment also allowing patients to integrate with their friends and family while they receive treatment. People are much less likely to relapse when they have support from those around them, something which can only be provided through ongoing outpatient care.
The Importance of Aftercare
The drug treatment process is often divided into three separate components: detoxification, rehabilitation, and aftercare support. While detox helps people to stop using drugs and rehab addresses the emotional and cognitive precursors of drug addiction, aftercare programs are always needed to ensure successful recovery. Outpatient addiction treatment programs work hand in hand with aftercare systems, including sober living houses, SMART Recovery, and 12-step support groups such as Narcotics Anonymous (NA). If you or anyone you know is struggling with drug abuse or addiction, it’s important to find professional help as soon as possible.
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