Outpatient treatment programs allow patients to receive treatment for substance use without taking them away from their family, friends, and school or work. Outpatient treatment can work better for some people than inpatient therapy. Individuals with more severe cases of substance use may be better served in an inpatient program. Outpatient day treatment has a number of pros and cons.
Pros and Cons of Outpatient Day Treatment for Addiction
There are many pros related to outpatient day treatment for addiction. First, the cost of outpatient programs is typically significantly less than inpatient programs. Outpatient programs are usually covered by insurance and are more affordable overall. Outpatient programs tend to be less disruptive to patients lives. Outpatient programs allow patients to continue working, attend school, and still have support from their family and friends. Outpatient programs also have several levels of care within their treatment programming. Outpatient programs generally have a full spectrum of care with multiple levels of treatment that have different duration and vary in intensity.
As a patient becomes more stable, they are able to transition to a lower care level. Individuals who may be struggling care able to move up in the spectrum and receive greater levels of structure and support. Further, outpatient programs allow patients to taper their treatment intensity and stay in treatment over a longer duration than inpatient programs allow. Outpatient programs also allow individuals to create bonds and support networks that are fostered and maintained in the long-term. This allows patients to have a network of treatment professionals and peers that are going through the recovery process. Finally, outpatient treatment programs allow patients to include their family members in their recovery. Family members are able to participate in therapy sessions as well as have support during their family’s road to recovery.
There are some cons related to outpatient treatment. Outpatient treatment for addiction typically does not include medical detox. Individuals who must have medical detox for substance or alcohol use may need to attend an inpatient detox program in order to safely and comfortably go through the withdrawal process. Further, outpatient programs do not provide around the clock care, which may allow individuals to relapse more easily. Individuals who are not stable and focused on their recovery may be better served through an inpatient treatment program rather than an outpatient treatment program for addiction. Outpatient treatment programs typically require that their patients entire family is involved in the recovery process. This may not be ideal for some individuals who do not have support from their family. Outpatient treatment may not be the best choice for all individuals. People who are seeking treatment should evaluate the pros and cons of outpatient and inpatient treatment and attend a program that will fit their unique needs. If you would like more information regarding outpatient day treatment, call us today at 833-846-5669.