California has recently seen an increase in drug use and violence. Because of this, rehabilitation is now more important than ever. Seeking help is the bravest thing you can do when suffering from an addiction.
With the right kind of help, you can regain control of your life. Inpatient and outpatient therapy are the most common treatment plans. However, an intensive outpatient program offers a unique balance of both.
In some cases, IOP serves as a stepping stone to sober living for patients who came from inpatient treatment. But everyone’s recovery journey is different, so how do you know if it’s right for you? Read on to learn how IOP can help with recovery.
What Is IOP?
An intensive outpatient program offers a structured but flexible program. People put in inpatient programs require 24/7 supervision. Inpatient programs are often reserved for extreme cases of substance abuse.
Most patients who go into inpatient care are at risk of hurting themselves or others. On the other hand, outpatient therapy gives you the responsibility to visit rehab facilities.
An IOP gives you more freedom but provides more intensive treatment than outpatient therapy. This treatment path is best for people who struggle with daily tasks but are not in immediate danger. It requires patients to stay in touch with professionals to monitor their recovery.
Continue Your Responsibilities
Treatment facilities welcome people from all walks of life. Many have full-time jobs and families, while others are high school students. One of the biggest struggles of people with addiction is transitioning to a life of recovery.
In inpatient programs, you must stay at the facility overnight or for the duration of the program. This may require you to abandon your job, studies, or other responsibilities. If you don’t want to uproot yourself from your life, an intensive outpatient program might be right for you.
IOP allows you to stay at home and live your life normally. You will only need to attend your treatment sessions once or a few times a week. This means you can continue working or studying while getting the help you need.
Keep Your Life Private
Shame is one of the main reasons why people refuse to seek help with their addiction. It can feel humiliating to inform your boss or school that you’ll be gone for a few months to get treatment. In inpatient treatment, you’re essentially living at the facility for the duration of the program.
You will be in close proximity with others who are going through the same struggles and treatment as you. It can make you feel overexposed and isolated. IOP allows you to maintain your privacy and choose what or whether you want to share and with whom.
Staff is also trained to work in discretion, so you don’t have to worry about your recovery journey. You can continue your life without explaining prolonged absences and stay in a familiar environment.
Get a Support System
Residential treatment can be challenging for some patients because they get limited contact with their loved ones. While you can make and receive calls in some facilities, it’s simply not the same as having them next to you. In an IOP, you get to stay with your family and receive their support.
IOP encourages family support, especially in the first stages of recovery. You can also stay in touch with friends and work with them to build your support system. Confidence is a driving factor in sustaining long-term recovery.
When patients have a strong support system, they become more confident. Intensive outpatient programs also often work in group settings. You will meet people in the same boat who wants to achieve similar goals.
Participate in Peer Groups
While family support is essential, having a community that understands your struggles can also help with recovery. Addiction treatment, regardless of your chosen program, can feel isolating. It’s easy to feel like you’re under judgemental or patronizing eyes. We want you to know that you are never alone.
IOP allows you to find a community that works together to achieve sobriety. IOP gives you channels to seek professional counseling and coaching. You will also have access to group therapy sessions.
Everyone is rooting for each other’s recovery and works to motivate people in their group. You can find security in a community from day one, and they will still be with you in the years to come.
More Cost-Effective
Inpatient programs are generally the path less traveled because of their cost. The housing and food costs can make it seem impossible to get treatment. This is often why most people choose outpatient programs.
Fortunately, you don’t need to sacrifice your financial security to get help. Intensive outpatient programs are more feasible for people who can’t afford inpatient treatment. You will receive the same level of care without paying for the living expenses at the facility.
Get Mental Help
Studies show that 53% of substance abusers have at least one mental illness. Many people who struggle with substance abuse also have anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder. This can get in the way of your ability to perform daily tasks or relate to other people.
Unfortunately, co-occurring disorders can affect each other. This means if your mental health disorder is untreated, you risk relapsing. The symptoms can also vary between people, so it’s sometimes hard to tell if you have a mental health problem.
Integrated treatment plans will help you manage your mental health needs and addiction problems. You will meet a mental health professional who will provide a detailed recovery plan.
Benefits of an Intensive Outpatient Program
Recovery is a long journey, and it’s easy to feel lost. An intensive outpatient program offers a structured but flexible treatment plan. You can continue your daily life while getting quality care from professionals.
One of the hardest parts of recovery is reintegrating yourself into society. Little Beach House offers a quiet beachfront property to help you transition to sober living. Get in touch, and let us know how we can help you during your stay.
