Addiction recovery is a process, and relapse is a normal part of that process. However, with the right support and treatment, people can learn to manage their cravings and triggers and stay sober for life. Outpatient addiction treatment can be a valuable resource for relapse prevention, especially for people who have recently completed a residential treatment program.
What Is Outpatient Addiction Treatment?
Outpatient addiction treatment is a type of substance abuse treatment that allows people to live at home and still receive the treatment they need. Outpatient programs typically offer a variety of services, including individual and group therapy, relapse prevention education, and medication management.
How Can Outpatient Addiction Treatment Help Prevent Relapse?
Outpatient addiction treatment can help prevent relapse in a number of ways. First, it provides people with continued support and accountability after they complete residential treatment. This is important because the early days of recovery can be challenging, and people are at increased risk of relapse during this time.
Second, outpatient addiction treatment teaches people skills to manage their cravings and triggers. These skills can be essential in preventing relapse, especially when people are faced with everyday situations that can be stressful or challenging.
Third, outpatient addiction treatment can help people develop a relapse prevention plan. This plan is a roadmap for what to do if someone does experience a crave trigger. It typically includes a list of coping skills, people to call for support, and steps to take to avoid relapse.
Types Of Outpatient Addiction Treatment
There are two main types of outpatient addiction treatment: partial hospitalization programs (PHPs) and intensive outpatient programs (IOPs).
Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs)
PHPs are the most intensive type of outpatient addiction treatment. They typically offer 6-8 hours of treatment per day, 5-7 days per week. PHPs are a good option for people who need a high level of support and supervision after completing residential treatment.
Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs)
IOPs are less intensive than PHPs, but they still offer a significant amount of support and treatment. IOPs typically offer 3-5 hours of treatment per day, 3-5 days per week. IOPs are a good option for people who need less support than a PHP but still need treatment regularly.
What To Expect From Outpatient Addiction Treatment
Outpatient addiction treatment typically includes a variety of services, including:
- Individual therapy: Individual therapy provides people with the opportunity to work with a therapist to address their individual needs and challenges.
- Group therapy: Group therapy provides people with the opportunity to connect with other people in recovery and learn from each other’s experiences.
- Relapse prevention education: Relapse prevention education teaches people skills to manage their cravings and triggers and avoid relapse.
- Medication management: Medication management can help people reduce cravings and other symptoms of addiction.
How To Choose An Outpatient Addiction Treatment Program
When choosing an outpatient addiction treatment program, it is important to consider the following factors:
- The level of support and supervision you need. If you need a high level of support and supervision, a PHP may be the best option for you. If you need less support, an IOP may be a good option.
- The types of services offered. Make sure the program offers the types of services you need, such as individual therapy, group therapy, relapse prevention education, and medication management.
- The cost of the program. Outpatient addiction treatment can vary in cost. Be sure to compare the cost of different programs before you make a decision and also find out if they accept your insurance.
- The location of the program. Choose a program that is conveniently located for you.
Additional Tips For Preventing Relapse
In addition to participating in outpatient addiction treatment, there are a number of other things you can do to prevent relapse:
- Avoid your triggers. Identify the people, places, and things that trigger your cravings and urges to use drugs or alcohol. Once you know your triggers, avoid them as much as possible.
- Develop a healthy lifestyle. Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep can all help you manage stress and reduce your risk of relapse.
- Build a strong support system. Surround yourself with people who support your sobriety and who you can turn to for help when you need it.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you are struggling, don’t be afraid to reach out to your therapist.
Outpatient Addiction Treatment at Lighthouse Recovery
Outpatient addiction treatment can play a vital role in relapse prevention. By providing people with continued support, teaching them coping skills, and helping them develop a relapse prevention plan, outpatient addiction treatment at Lighthouse can help people stay sober for the long term. Contact us today and let us guide you through the process, our experienced staff will tell you more about your insurance coverage and how you can start your treatment with our dedicated experts.
