Outpatient Drug Rehab: Pros, Cons, and What to Expect
Learn more about the benefits and drawbacks of outpatient drug rehab and how to find a facility near you here.
Outpatient Drug Rehab: Overview
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, you do not have to go it alone. There are many treatment options available, no matter what stage of addiction you’re in. Helping yourself through outpatient drug rehab can be one of the best decisions you ever make. Before starting a program, it is important to get information about it and think about the pros, cons, and expectations.
What is Outpatient Drug Rehab?
Outpatient rehab programs are a type of addiction treatment. This treatment option does not require patients to live at the treatment facility. Instead, patients attend treatment sessions during the day or evening and return home afterward.
Outpatient treatment is a popular choice for people who have jobs, school, or family obligations that they cannot neglect. It is also a good option for people who do not need intensive care or medical supervision.1
What Treatments are Offered at Outpatient Drug Rehab Programs?
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, outpatient treatment can include individual counseling, group therapy, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), and other behavioral therapies. Outpatient treatment programs can vary in intensity and frequency. Some programs require daily attendance while others only require attendance a few times per week.
Supplementing outpatient rehab with healthy lifestyle changes can help achieve long-term recovery. These changes can include regular exercise, nutritious meals, and dietary supplements.2
Outpatient rehab programs are a unique tool that helps individuals navigate the complex process of overcoming addiction to drugs or alcohol. The goal is returning to a healthier life. In this article, we will discuss the pros and cons of outpatient drug rehab and what you can expect if you choose this type of treatment.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Outpatient Drug Rehab Programs
Like any drug and alcohol treatment program, there are advantages and disadvantages to outpatient treatment. Some pros and cons of outpatient care are detailed below.
Outpatient Drug Rehab: Pros
The American Society of Addiction Medicine states that outpatient treatment can be an effective option for people with mild to moderate substance use disorders (SUDs). Outpatient treatment can help individuals maintain their daily routines while receiving the support they need to overcome their addiction.
Other pros include:
- Outpatient drug rehab is less expensive than inpatient treatment
- It allows patients to continue working or going to school while in treatment
- Patients can receive support from family and friends during treatment
- It allows patients to gradually transition back into their everyday lives after treatment
- It’s especially helpful for people who need minimal support in their recovery journey
Insurance Coverage
Outpatient treatment is typically less expensive than inpatient treatment. This is because patients do not need to pay for room and board. It’s important to note that not all insurance plans cover outpatient treatment. Make sure to check with your insurance provider before beginning treatment.3
Outpatient Treatment in Adolescence
Research shows that adolescents who enter outpatient treatment also tend to achieve better outcomes than those who do not access any form of rehabilitation services at all. Therefore, by considering outpatient drug rehab as part of their recovery journey, those dealing with substance use or addiction issues may find that outpatient care helps them make significant steps toward lasting sobriety.4
Outpatient Drug Rehab: Cons
Some drawbacks to outpatient treatment include:
- Outpatient drug rehab requires a high level of motivation and discipline from patients
- It can be difficult to stay sober when living in an environment where drugs are easily accessible
- There is a higher risk of relapse for those who attend outpatient drug rehab treatment
- Patients may feel isolated from their peers if they are the only ones attending outpatient treatment
- Outpatient drug rehab programs can be disruptive to patients’ daily lives and routines
- It has a lower success rate than inpatient treatment
It is important to note that addiction treatment is not one-size-fits-all. What works for some may not work for others. Finding the best treatment program for you will depend on the severity of your addiction, the substance used, and your specific medical needs. Consult your primary care provider for advice on how to choose the right treatment option for you.
Outpatient Drug Rehab at Essence Healthcare
Outpatient rehabilitation can play a vital role in helping someone achieve long-term recovery and sustain sobriety. At Essence Healthcare, we understand the importance of this journey and offer individualized treatment plans to help individuals address their unique treatment needs.
Our Mission
At Essence Healthcare, we understand how important it is to help people achieve long-term sobriety. We design a special plan for each person with treatments that have been proven to work. Our staff will help to address the reason why someone uses drugs or alcohol like stress, trauma, or mental health issues. We want people to learn how to feel better without needing drugs or alcohol and stay sober long-term.
Our experienced staff combines evidence-based treatments with proven therapies to address underlying issues that are fueling addiction. We address these core issues in a safe and supportive environment. We help you develop healthy coping skills and relapse-prevention strategies. Our goal is to teach you how to live a healthy life without drugs or alcohol. Our team is committed to helping you create lasting change so you can get back to living the life you love.
Contact Essence Healthcare Today
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, you do not have to do it alone. Reach out to us today for more information about our outpatient drug rehab treatment and other available treatment options.
Resources
- https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/alcohol-facts-and-statistics
- https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/treatment-alcohol-problems-finding-and-getting-help#1
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5714654/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11327187/
