Outpatient drug rehab is for people who have too many responsibilities to enter a residential inpatient program for 30 days. Because of the nature of outpatient drug rehab, it’s a better option for those individuals who are just beginning to have trouble with their alcohol or drug usage. Outpatient drug rehab has limited supervision as opposed to inpatient, which is generally 24-hours a day. This requires a certain level of commitment and functionality that may not be possible for someone who is experiencing severe consequences from alcohol and drug usage.
Basics of Outpatient Drug Rehab
Outpatient drug rehab allows individuals to continue their regular school or work schedule while attending clinical or group therapy sessions at a drug rehab center. Sessions may vary from three days a week to daily sessions. Clients are generally required to submit to drug testing and attend 12-step meetings.
Outpatient drug rehab offers educational modules on the disease of addiction, relapse prevention and life management skills. Counselors generally lead the group therapy sessions and may also be available on an individual basis to act as case managers. Assignments may be given specific to each individual’s needs, such as identifying underlying issues and triggers pertinent to alcohol or drug usage and working through these in additional sessions.
Is Outpatient Drug Rehab for you?
Outpatient drug rehab can be effective but it’s not for everyone. If you have been struggling with alcohol or drug addiction for a long period of time and are simply unable to stop on your own, the structure and supervision of inpatient drug rehab is highly recommended. Outpatient drug rehabs work best for those who are just beginning to recognize they are abusing alcohol and drugs and want to stop it before it goes any further.
Outpatient is designed for individuals who fall into the “high functioning” category and are able to maintain the outpatient drug rehab schedule in addition to school or work. The limited amount of supervision and structure can pose a problem for those in early sobriety who are trying to balance life with getting sober at the same time. Still, outpatient drug rehab can be just what is needed to correct a downward slide into alcoholism and drug addiction. It really comes down to the individual and how much he or she is willing to put into it. If you feel you meet this criteria, then Outpatient drug rehab might be just what you’re looking for.