If you are considering which type of addiction treatment may work best for you, you may have already come across both inpatient/residential and outpatient programs. To determine which one would work best for you, you will need to stay informed about what they do and how they are different. An outpatient program works well for many people, but you should evaluate whether you are equipped to succeed in outpatient addiction treatment.
What Is An Outpatient Program?
An outpatient program is one method of addiction recovery. Unlike residential programs that require you to leave your home, family, and work for a certain period of time to live in a facility that cares for you, an outpatient program consists of meetings and other commitments you can do while maintaining your career, childcare, and other responsibilities. You are not required to live away from home, so your life can continue in relative normalcy while you seek treatment for addiction. You will come to the facility for scheduled appointments, which may vary in frequency and duration depending upon your situation.
In contrast, an inpatient facility will have you pay for room and board so that you can live there 24/7 for the duration of treatment. This includes consistent attention from doctors and other physical and mental health professionals, as well as any necessary medical treatment for withdrawal and substance abuse symptoms.
People Who Should Consider An Outpatient Program
Every person is unique, and some flourish in an outpatient addiction recovery program. Others may find that it is too free and unscheduled, and so they do not benefit from it as much as an inpatient or residential approach. You will need to evaluate your own situation and be honest with yourself when considering whether outpatient programs are a good choice for you.
Those Who Have A Mild To Moderate Addiction
In general, outpatient programs work best for those whose addictions are mild to moderate. Severe addictions can result not only in robust mental frameworks that are difficult to overcome without being removed from their circumstances but also potentially dangerous physical withdrawal symptoms that are best treated with the help of a medical professional available at all times. For these individuals, a residential program may be a better choice, since they will receive 24/7 attention and care in overcoming their addiction.
If you display only moderately addictive behaviors, an outpatient program may be a worthwhile choice for you. With less severe physical symptoms upon stopping the behavior and the ability to continue with your normal life while receiving treatment, those who are mildly addicted often thrive in outpatient scenarios.
Those Who Have A Strong Support System At Home
Overcoming addiction is a continuous process, and one of the most critical factors that influence a person’s success is the support system that they rely on. Because outpatient programs leave large swaths of free time to their patients, mental health professionals and counselors are not a consistent resource like they would be in a residential program. Thus, anyone considering outpatient treatment should have a support system in their home or community that can help them to remain accountable and overcome setbacks and challenges. This may be family members, a spouse, a support group, or a group of close friends.
Those Who Have Good Mental Health Outside Of Addiction
Addiction is a challenge that arises out of deeply ingrained brain functions, and much of the struggle is a mental one. It is important that anyone considering outpatient programs demonstrate good mental health; being able to cope with potentially challenging changes, maintain a measured and thoughtful attitude, and demonstrate resilience are all critical factors in overcoming addiction. Those who suffer from severe depression or other concerns may struggle to maintain the accountability and consistency needed for an outpatient program to succeed, and an inpatient option may be more suited to them.
Reach Out To A Knowledgeable Addiction Recovery Center
Whether you are still considering taking a step toward addiction recovery or you are ready to begin the process of joining an outpatient or residential program, your next best step is to develop a relationship with a knowledgeable addiction recovery center that can support your goals. Insight Treatment Center champions a personalized approach that is unique to each individual.
From medically assisted treatment and substance abuse treatment to addiction therapy and mental health therapy, Insight has years of experience providing robust care in individualized programs. Reach out to schedule an appointment to speak with an expert who can strategize with you about the next best steps to take. By working together, we can equip you with the skills you need to move on with your life free of addiction.
