Are Outpatient Treatments Effective for Drug Addicted People?

Millions of people across the world suffer from drug addiction. In general, it might be serious and complex. This is because it not only affects the individual, but also their families, workplaces, and communities.

However, if you decide to get treatment, you might face the conundrum of choosing between inpatient and outpatient programs.

Basically, in an inpatient program, you have to stay at the treatment facility throughout the span of the treatment. Meanwhile, after an outpatient treatment, you will have the flexibility to return home.

Therefore, read on to get a better idea of whether an outpatient treatment program will be effective for drug addiction or not.

Outpatient Treatment Program: How Does It Work?

Primarily, an outpatient treatment is a type of rehabilitation. As part of this program, you will receive care and support while continuing to live at home. All you have to do is attend therapy sessions and counseling from time to time. 

Sometimes, you might have to schedule medical appointments at a clinic or rehabilitation center.

In general, the outpatient treatment is best for people with moderate addiction. Also, if you have already completed an inpatient program, the therapist might recommend an outpatient treatment. 

However, if you have a serious level of addiction, an outpatient program might not be that effective.

Moreover, there are different levels of outpatient programs depending on intensity. For instance, in some cases, you might have to make a visit daily. 

Meanwhile, in other cases, weekly visits are enough. This shows that outpatient care is flexible. That is why it is a better option for busy and committed people.

Is Outpatient Treatment Effective?

The following are some of the major factors that determine the effectiveness of outpatient treatment:

1. What is the Severity of the Addiction?

If you are not in immediate danger of substance usage, an outpatient treatment is the best option for you. However, if there is immediate danger, the therapist might recommend an inpatient treatment.

2. How Good Is Your Support System?

If you have a strong bond with your family and friends, an outpatient treatment program will be really helpful for you. This is because they will be able to constantly motivate and monitor you for your better outcome.

3. How Much Are You Committed to Recovery?

Obviously, it is your willingness and commitment which matters the most when it comes to recovery from addiction. It shows that if you are not fully committed, an outpatient treatment plan will not effectively work for you.

4. How Good Is the Outpatient Program?

Interestingly, all outpatient programs are not equal. In fact, some therapies are based on evidence and experiences of professionals. Hence, they make a major difference.

Apart from that, outpatient programs have a lower completion rate than inpatient programs. Meanwhile, the latter produces better results. This shows that the dropout rates of outpatient programs are higher. Despite that, they are quite effective for many people.

Major Benefits of Outpatient Treatment

The following are some of the major advantages of an outpatient treatment program that you will benefit from:

1. They Are Flexible

Even if you are a part of an outpatient program, you will be able to continue your daily operations. These include working, attending school, and fulfilling responsibilities. 

In fact, you will be able to continue them at the same time while you receive treatment. Hence, it is much easier to integrate your addiction recovery with your daily responsibilities.

2. They Have Lower Costs

In general, outpatient treatment programs are more affordable than inpatient care. Hence, they are obviously more accessible to a larger number of people.

3. They Involve Real-World Practice

While you are going through outpatient treatment, you get to live at your residence. Hence, you get the chance to apply your coping strategies immediately. Also, you will be able to apply in real life what you have learned during therapy.

4. They Maintain More Privacy

The best thing about outpatient care is that you will be able to maintain your privacy level. This is because you do not have to explain long absences.

Major Problems with Outpatient Treatment

Although outpatient treatment programs come with a variety of benefits, it might still not be suitable for everyone. This is because of the following reasons:

1. You are exposed to triggers in an outpatient treatment. Hence, if you live at home (out of therapy) for long, you might end up relapsing.
2. In an outpatient plan, you also have less supervision. This is because, unlike inpatient care, there is no one to monitor you 24/7.
3. Obviously, there is the risk of relapse. In fact, if you do not get constant support, you might struggle to stay sober. This happens during the early stages of your recovery.

Hence, it is important to consult an addiction treatment center before you choose the type of treatment.

Major Constituents of an Outpatient Program

The following are some of the major constituents of an outpatient therapy program:

1. Individual Therapy

In this case, you will have one-on-one sessions with your counselor. This way, you will find out the root causes of your addiction.

2. Group Therapy

If you share experiences with others in recovery, it will help you to heal (recover) faster.

3. Family Counseling

In general, your addiction might even affect your family (or the people you stay with). Hence, if you heal together, it will strengthen the recovery.

4. Medication Prescription

In some cases, therapists/doctors prescribe medications (like buprenorphine or naltrexone) to reduce cravings. These help in preventing relapse.

5. Education and Life Skills

If you deal with addiction properly, you will learn a lot about healthy habits. Also, you will learn a lot about various life skills.

Consult with Your Therapist Now

Depending on your situation and level of addiction, an outpatient treatment might be highly effective for you. However, it is better to reach out to an addiction counselor to find out what you actually require. For instance, if your situation is dire, you might require an inpatient treatment.

In addition to that, if you are following an outpatient therapy, you will have to motivate yourself from time to time. Apart from that, a strong support system and professional guidance are also necessary.