For those who are ready to change their lives, there are many options. One of the newest options that is gaining favor quickly is outpatient drug rehabilitation where a person does not actually live in a treatment facility during the healing process. Instead, these long-term patient care facilities provide programs which will continue as long as is necessary for the individual case.
Programs vary based on individual needs. The intensity level is often directly dependent on the goal and basis of the problem. For those involved in intensive treatment programs, researchers have found that outcomes often equal that of live-in treatment programs. However, outpatient programs require a strong at-home support system and the willingness on the part of the individual to follow strict guidelines.
For many users an intensive system is not required. The advantage of many outpatient programs is the fact that education and counseling alone are available for those who have experimented with drugs or alcohol, but are not yet hooked. Evaluating individual needs, therefore, is a first step which can be accomplished with the aid of a qualified specialist in the field.
In many cases an underlying problem or genetic predisposition makes one vulnerable to substance abuse. This must be evaluated along with the strength of the addiction in order to determine the proper course of care. For example, if alcohol addiction runs in a family and an individual is struggling with methadone pain management, they would need a different type of treatment program than one addicted to opiates with no history of addiction in the family.
Outpatient treatment is multifaceted and requires a complex treatment program. These often includes counseling, support groups, education, attention to mental health needs, meeting individually with a psychiatrist, and even help finding a job when it is felt the person has the strength to begin reclaiming their place in society. One of the most common uses today is methadone withdrawal treatment which includes ways to combat the debilitating effects of this drug.
Along the way, an individual counselor constantly monitors progress and adjusts treatment options if needed. Understanding how drugs affect the body and mind as well as what draws some people into their use is extremely important. The knowledge gained during the course of management serves to build a solid foundation which will help one avoid their use later in life.
Frequently outpatient drug rehabilitation is used following live-in treatment programs. This provides the support required to ensure a person can remain drug and alcohol-free while working to regain their place as contributing members of society. The ultimate goal is independence which is free from dependence on drugs or alcohol to be able to function daily.