An outpatient drug rehab program is a great way for individuals, who have made progress in their recovery, to continue getting the care they need while returning to their daily life. This often involves the patient working or attending school while visiting the rehab facility multiple times each week for counseling and support services.
Transitioning into an outpatient program can seem intimidating, and it is important to adequately prepare ahead of time for a successful experience. This review discusses effective ways to prepare ahead of time for your outpatient treatment program.
How To Prepare For An Outpatient Program
You can prepare for an outpatient program by determining the most appropriate time to schedule your sessions, understanding the increased level of accountability that comes along with outpatient programs and organizing family obligations ahead of time, among other preparation tips that are discussed in detail below.
Schedule Your Sessions At A Convenient Time
An important first step to take when preparing for an outpatient drug treatment program is to schedule your sessions at the most convenient time possible. Patients in outpatient treatment will still be going through their daily routine as they normally would, without rehab. This includes going to work, attending school and spending time with family. Patients will have an increased level of responsibility to plan their time accordingly to ensure they are able to attend all of their scheduled counseling sessions.
Take The Increased Accountability Seriously
Patients must demonstrate accountability and responsibility while in outpatient care. A failure to attend all scheduled sessions could increase the risk of a relapse or a more difficult time dealing with triggers. Patients that do not feel as if they are in a position to handle the increased responsibility may be better suited for inpatient care until they are able to get into a better frame of mind necessary to handle the pressures of daily life.
Take Care Of Family Obligations Beforehand
One of the biggest causes of setbacks during an outpatient program is having obligations obstructing the patient’s ability to attend scheduled sessions. This is often family-related, such as not having anyone to babysit their child(ren) while they are receiving treatment at the clinic. Addressing these responsibilities prior to entering the outpatient program is a key component to success.
For patients who utilize family therapy as a part of their rehabilitation program, notifying family members of all scheduled sessions is not only important for the success of the patient, but also demonstrates responsibility.
Notify Your Boss Of Your Outpatient Program Sessions
Many who are going through an intensive outpatient program are continuing to maintain their employment throughout the program. Honesty with their employer regarding the outpatient program is sometimes shadowed by the fear of how the employer may react to the patient’s addiction. However, many patients are surprised at how considerate and accommodating their employer is, and notifying your boss ahead of time can help prevent any issues with your work schedule.
Understand The Importance Of Communication
Communication is one of the most essential components of outpatient treatment. Unlike inpatient care, outpatient programs provide the patient with the freedom and flexibility to go through their daily routine as they normally would.
Without ideal communication with your counselors, family members, friends and significant other the process may become far more challenging and setbacks are far more likely. By making a concerted effort ahead of time to communicate properly and notify those closest to you of your intensive outpatient program, you can make a successful experience far more likely.
Know When An Inpatient Program May Be A Better Solution
It is crucial to understand the differences between outpatient and inpatient programs. Most notably, patients in outpatient care do not have the same level of supervision as patients who are in inpatient care.
Subsequently, patients who are less able to address triggers through successfully developed coping mechanisms may not be ideal for outpatient programs and may benefit more from inpatient care. Your counselors can help you decide on the best plan toward long-term sobriety.
Who Is The Ideal Candidate For An Outpatient Program?
The ideal candidate for an outpatient program has developed coping mechanisms to successfully address potential triggers that could lead to relapse. Patients should also have a stable living situation and be able to demonstrate their ability to maintain sobriety without the round-the-clock monitoring that is a part of inpatient drug rehab programs.
Schedule A Consultation To Discuss Outpatient Treatment
To schedule a consultation to discuss the best outpatient treatment plan for you to regain your sobriety and achieve a long-term relapse prevention plan, call our team today or send us a message. We also offer inpatient programs for those who are in the stage of requiring full time supervision and care.