The numbers on substance use disorder can prove disheartening. Around 23 million Americans have or do struggle with it. Even worse, around three-quarters of them never get any assistance with it.Have a look at the 5 benefits of outpatient therapy:-
Why?
Treatment options often focus on inpatient programs that require lengthy stays away from your home. For many, a month or two away from work and family isn’t a realistic option. Fortunately, there are also outpatient programs that may prove more workable.
That leaves the question about the benefits of outpatient therapy. If you’re thinking of seeking assistance, keep reading for five potential benefits of an outpatient program.
Table of Contents
1. Doesn’t Disrupt Work
Unless you enjoy a job with a very generous leave policy, most people face losing their job if they enroll in an inpatient program. That can stretch strained budgets beyond the breaking point.
Outpatient programs help you avoid this particular problem. With outpatient therapy, you can see counselors during evening or weekend hours. This lets you make it to work each day, which can help you keep your finances afloat.
2. Less Expensive
When considering the pros and cons of outpatient therapy, the cost definitely goes in the pro column. The cost for inpatient treatment can run in the tens of thousands depending on the treatment center. As a general rule, the cost of outpatient treatment run around 50% or less of an inpatient program.
3. More Privacy
When you enter an inpatient program, it’s almost impossible for you to keep it private from friends or coworkers. Disappearing for a month or more simply raises too many questions. Sooner or later, you must come clean with the people who know you.
One of the key benefits of outpatient therapy is that you can keep the information close to the vest. While the treatment will alter your schedule, it’s less obvious.
4. It Can Prove Effective
Outpatient therapy often gets put down as less effective. That might make you wonder, “Does outpatient therapy really work?”
For heavy substance abuse, outpatient programs are less effective. For more moderate substance use disorder, outpatient therapy can work for you.
5. You Sleep at Home
It might seem like a small thing, but sleeping at home can make a huge difference for anyone with a family. With outpatient therapy, you stay in your own home every night. That can let you participate in important family decisions or even with childcare, which can prove a huge stumbling block for inpatient programs.
The Benefits of Outpatient Therapy and You
There are many benefits of outpatient therapy that can make it an attractive option. Yet, one of the cons of outpatient therapy is that it leaves you more open to temptation.
If you’re interested in an outpatient program, you should contact the program and arrange a meeting. The meeting will cover some essentials about you and let you know if you’re a good candidate. That lets you make a more informed decision.
Looking for more tips on health and overall wellness? Check out the posts in our Health & Fitness section.