When Is The Best Time For Outpatient Rehab?

Entering rehab can be a complicated choice, but it is probably a good idea if you're considering it. However, not all rehabs are created equal. 

The most common treatment programs are either inpatient or outpatient, meaning you live in a residential facility or go home after treatment sessions. 

Although both of these are effective forms of addiction treatment, outpatient rehab could be a better option for you. It all depends on your lifestyle, responsibilities, and the severity of your substance use at the time of treatment. 

What Is Outpatient Rehab?

Outpatient drug rehab is a treatment program done during the day while the client returns home at night. 

Outpatient programs usually include treatment engagement, early recovery, maintenance, and community support. Unlike treatment for more severe addiction, outpatient rehab does not usually offer around-the-clock medical supervision, detox, or treatment for severe mental health issues.

You receive care from physicians, counselors, and other professionals, but it is much more flexible than inpatient rehab, as you can continue to work or care for your family.

Like other programs, outpatient rehab offers levels of treatment. At first, meetings and sessions may be more regular or intense, but as you progress through your recovery, it can decrease or even increase as needed. It depends on your level of addiction. 

Many people choose outpatient rehab because it is more accessible and manageable than other formats. It allows you to maintain your routine and schedule. You can focus on your recovery while continuing to function outside of treatment – like attending school or work during drug & alcohol recovery.

However, this is the same reason outpatient rehab may not be the best solution for some people.

Is Outpatient Rehab Right for You?

Outpatient treatment is best for people willing to attend regular appointments and counseling sessions. It is ideal if you are motivated to maintain sobriety and focus on your recovery. 

Outpatient treatment is not the best choice if you are experiencing withdrawal symptoms, have an unsafe or unstable home environment, have relapsed multiple times, or have other psychiatric disorders that need co-occurring treatment. 

Choosing outpatient rehab means you are dedicated to your recovery, even when outside the walls of the treatment facility. 

If you have a stable home life and supportive friends and family, outpatient rehab could be a good option. Because there is no overnight care, your addiction mustn't be so intense that you are experiencing physical symptoms of withdrawal that require medical intervention. 

You will also need to be responsible and reliable. Attending your meetings, therapies, and other treatment appointments is vital to your success. Some programs offer transportation, but many require you to have your own method of transportation. 

Outpatient rehab also has benefits regarding the timing of treatment. Rather than learning about addiction, discovering coping mechanisms, working through recovery, and adjusting to your daily life, this treatment allows you to immediately incorporate your therapies into your life.

You can work on coping with daily stress and emotions while still in treatment. This lets you adjust your treatment to your needs and makes adjusting to your life a bit easier. 

If something isn't working, you can speak with your provider, alter your treatment plan, or focus more on what you might be struggling with. 

You will also be exposed to triggers right off the bat. Rather than easing into life, you may be driving past a liquor store on your way to work or to rehab. This initial exposure to experiences that could lead to cravings forces you to apply your treatment to your life while still having access to professionals and a strong community of peers.

When Should You Enter Outpatient Rehab?

The best time to start outpatient rehab is when you are motivated to get sober and stay in recovery. If you are struggling with relapse, experiencing active withdrawal, or aren't sure you're ready for rehab, the freedom of outpatient rehab may not be for you. 

If you are not sure you are capable of the independence and accountability that outpatient rehab requires, the structure of inpatient treatment would be a lot more beneficial for you.

Entering outpatient rehab and maintaining your sobriety requires a lot of willpower. You have access to your vices, so incorporating your treatment directly into your life is key.

You will learn how to cope with trauma, stress, anxiety, and even boredom, but you don't have much time to practice because you have immediate access to your home life. If you feel like that level of flexibility is risky for you, outpatient rehab may not be the right choice. Inpatient rehab can help with all of those things.

However, if you thrive in your home environment and have a supportive and stable home life, it could be the more effective treatment option.

Outpatient treatment is also a good choice for those recently out of inpatient rehab who still want structure and treatment while easing back into everyday life. As long as you feel you need that guidance, it is a great resource.

The longer you are in treatment, the more likely your recovery will be successful. 

Outpatient Rehab Is Flexible And Accessible … If You’re Ready For That

Outpatient rehab is an accessible and flexible form of addiction treatment. It can be the ideal choice for many people in need of treatment but without the ability to leave their families or jobs. Outpatient rehab is just as effective as more intensive treatments, but it demands more immediate responsibility from a person in their recovery.

Detox is always the first step in recovery, however. Finding a reputable detox center can also be a major challenge. It’s why we developed DetoxNearMe.com, the internet’s largest directory of reputable, effective detox centers. Finding a detox center near you has never been easier. Search DetoxNearMe.com today!