Addiction is a chronic disease that can be treated with many different approaches. One of the most common methods of addiction treatment is outpatient therapy. This type of treatment offers addicts many benefits including professional medical and psychological help, family support, and other advantages.
Consequently, if you’re struggling with alcohol addiction, you might be wondering if outpatient alcohol treatment is right for you. In this type of treatment, patients attend regular therapy sessions at rehab centers, but they return home each night. When a patient has a dedicated support network at home and does not require round-the-clock care, it can be an excellent choice. Remember not to think in absolutes–trying to decide between outpatient or inpatient treatment.
In some cases, outpatient treatment may be sufficient to achieve sobriety. This is possible if someone has not become a chronic alcoholic and reached a point of feeling helpless about quitting. In other cases, it might be best to first go for inpatient treatment and then switch to outpatient treatment once you’ve benefitted from the full detox and deep healing process done in a 30-, 60-, or 90-day rehab facility.
How Outpatient Alcohol Treatment Works
Outpatient alcohol treatment offers many advantages, including convenience, availability, and flexibility. This type of treatment usually combines therapy with medication. The success rate can vary depending on the severity of the addiction, the length of time the person has been addicted, and other factors. Outpatient alcohol treatment is not a cure-all, but it can help people with alcoholism to reduce their drinking, avoid relapses, and improve their overall health. This treatment typically lasts for several months to a year.
An outpatient alcohol treatment, patients meet with a therapist once or twice a week. A therapist will help the patient identify the triggers that lead them to drink and teach them coping skills to deal with life stressors. The therapist will also assist the person in developing a plan to avoid drinking in provocative situations, such as peer pressure to go to a bar. Patients in outpatient may also attend support groups. These groups offer social support and a forum for the sharing of addiction experiences.
The Benefits of Outpatient Alcohol Treatment
Getting comprehensive treatment is the first major benefit of outpatient alcohol treatment. The process of outpatient alcohol treatment begins with an initial assessment by a medical professional. The medical professional will ask about your drinking habits and previous attempts to quit. They will also perform a physical examination to rule out underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to your problem drinking.
During a medical evaluation, a doctor can develop a treatment plan that meets your needs. Medicine can reduce cravings and prevent relapse. In addition, you will be able to benefit from working with a therapist and participating in group sessions. A comprehensive approach is preferable to only getting medication, only going for private therapy, or only joining a support group. The second benefit is that you will not have to fight your addiction alone.
With the help of professionals and your loved ones, you can achieve long-term sobriety through an outpatient alcohol treatment program. During challenging times, family and friends can provide encouragement and motivation, since they are essential to the treatment plan. In addition, they can provide practical assistance, such as childcare and transportation. Research has shown that outpatient alcohol treatment is significantly more successful when family and friends are involved. With the support and structure of outpatient alcohol treatment, many people can overcome their drinking problems.
When you are struggling with alcoholism, you may want to consider seeking treatment from an outpatient alcohol treatment program. Treatment of this type can provide you with the support you need to overcome an addiction. We can answer all your questions about everything you want to know about outpatient treatment. Simply call us at 844-639-8371 to speak to one of our counselors.