Outpatient rehab is a treatment option available to an addict for detoxing as well as learning how to get and stay clean and sober.
Outpatient rehab means just that.
It is outpatient, the individual is required to follow a set of treatment procedures without being admitted to a residential facility.
They are responsible for following through with all recommendations provided to them.
There is a greater risk of individuals leaving the program or not following the processes provided.
Rehabilitation through outpatient care can be effective, however, it is often difficult for some to complete due to the lack of constant supervision.
As an inpatient the addict is supervised twenty four hours each day, providing less chance of interacting with the unhealthy environment which the individual turns to for securing the drugs and/or alcohol.
Outpatient does not provide the structure and routine, that an inpatient facility provides.
While in outpatient treatment there is also limited focus on the medical and or nutritional needs of the addict.
While going through the detox portion of getting clean, the addict will often have severe withdrawal symptoms that can often be extremely severe.
Without medical attention to ease the symptoms, the addict will often result to using again to elevate the symptoms.
Group support is a very important part of treatment.
Outpatient treatment provides the resources of where to attend the groups, however, they often go unattended.
It is easy to say, "I will go to the next meeting" as opposed to when in a residential center, there is no option to not go.
Without supervision those in outpatient often neglect the support through groups and/or meetings.
Treatment through outpatient requires extreme dedication to getting clean and sober.
The individual may have the desire to follow through but without supervision they often fall into the "do it later" trap.
Proper guidance is important for an addict to be assured of following through with treatment.
Without the guidance provided through residential treatment, the addict may become discouraged and give up the rehabilitation efforts.
It is crucial that an addict avoid old habits and the dangers of unhealthy environments.
This is difficult for those residing and working in the environment with easy access to their substance of choice.
Guidance is key to following through with the program.
Outpatient does have benefits, such as the cost is less expensive than residential and they are able to continue working and supporting family members.
Coaching or having someone to be accountable to is vital to guide and push for the rehab visits.