Outpatient drug and alcohol detox centers are safe, supportive places where people can go through substance withdrawal with medical supervision. They also offer other treatment services like counseling.
Addiction recovery can be difficult. Cravings, relapse, and life stress can all work against sobriety. However, there are methods to overcome these barriers and receive the support you require for recovery.
It’s Affordable
The detox process can be a scary step in addiction recovery. However, it’s necessary before focused treatment can begin. If the withdrawal symptoms are not adequately managed in a setting under medical supervision, they might be hazardous.
Ambulatory detox is usually less expensive than residential detox because the patient does not stay in the recovery facility on a 24-hour basis. This can benefit those needing work or other responsibilities but still need addiction recovery assistance.
Depending on the program, outpatient detox San Diego may also include counseling and group therapy sessions to help you learn to cope with your addiction and develop healthy coping mechanisms. In addition, many rehab centers accept insurance and will work with you to determine if your plan covers outpatient detox.
It’s Flexible
Unlike residential programs, outpatient detox operates a few hours a day, multiple times a week. This makes it more flexible for people who must work or attend school or have other family and life responsibilities they can’t take a break from.
However, outpatient detox is not suitable for everyone. You may need to undergo more intensive inpatient detox if you’ve experienced a relapse or have specific co-occurring medical or mental health issues.
Additionally, if you live in a home where you can access drugs or alcohol, separating yourself from those environments during your outpatient detox is essential. Otherwise, you’ll be tempted to use it again. Your doctor will recommend the best program for your needs. Often, this involves prescription medication like buprenorphine or methadone to reduce cravings during withdrawal.
It’s Effective
While most detox programs require patients to stay at a treatment facility overnight, this is not always necessary. Those with mild addictions can detox in an ambulatory detox program, which allows them to return home or work between appointments with medical professionals.
These short sessions can include blood tests, counseling or group support, medication monitoring, and other check-ups. Medications may be given to reduce withdrawal symptoms, including nausea, anxiety, or cramping.
Only the initial phase of long-term rehabilitation is detox. After stabilizing, a detox program might recommend you to a rehab or treatment center where you can learn the skills necessary for maintaining sober for the rest of your life. This can be anything from inpatient rehab to mutual help groups like AA or NA.
It’s Safe
Detox is essential to ensure a person has stopped using drugs or alcohol. This must be done in a safe environment—many people who attempt to detox on their end up relapsing or even suffering from medical complications. When someone is under the care of a medical professional, these issues are avoided.
The structure of outpatient detox provides a support system that encourages accountability. It also gives a person the freedom to live their lives while undergoing addiction recovery. However, attending regular sessions during business hours can be difficult for those with extensive work or family responsibilities. The 6.5-day outpatient detox program may be a more suitable option for them. Most insurance policies cover the cost of outpatient detox under the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equality Act.
It’s Personalized
Outpatient detox programs are tailored to the individual’s unique circumstances and needs. Whether or not an outpatient program is appropriate depends on how long you’ve been using drugs and alcohol, the severity of your withdrawal symptoms, your history of relapse, and other factors.
Your daily schedule and responsibilities are also considered in outpatient detox. Outpatient detox may be your best option if you have a busy work or home life.
Generally, outpatient detox is shorter than inpatient detox; you can return home or work during the day while attending detox sessions. This slow transition back to your familiar environment can help prevent relapse. You’ll also have access to addiction treatment services and counseling. At the same time, you attend outpatient detox, so your support system is on hand as you make this critical first step toward recovery.
