Should You Choose Outpatient Alcohol Treatment?

A person who is not comfortable in a residential program can opt for an outpatient alcohol treatment method, provided he does not have a severe alcohol addiction. This option is also available for those who have already undergone the first stages of a residential or inpatient treatment program.

While there is no assurance of the effectiveness of this alcohol addiction treatment, a lot of alcoholics are betting on this treatment type for the following reasons:

  • They feel more comfortable in their own homes
  • They are not required to pay to stay in the alcohol treatment center overnight
  • They can continue with activities in their daily schedule like office work
  • There are flexible schedules to choose from
  • Involvement of family, friends and support groups is greater

There are plenty of options if you are seeking an outpatient alcohol treatment center for a friend or family member. You can contact the following agencies and ask for their help:

  1. The Substance Abuse and Mental health Services Administration - Center for Substance Abuse Treatment
  2. The American Council on Alcoholism
  3. The National Drug and Alcohol Treatment Referral Routing Service
  4. Alcoholics Anonymous
  5. Secular Organizations for Sobriety

Despite the belief that outpatient alcohol treatment is less effective than an inpatient one, the effectiveness of any type of treatment really depends on the willingness and determination of the patient as well as the quality of the programs being implemented by the alcohol treatment center. Most outpatient alcohol treatment centers offer extended care service which means the lifestyle and activities of the patient is still being monitored for signs of relapse even if he is outside the center.

A good outpatient alcohol treatment program will require a medical and psychological assessment of the patient before a specific treatment plan is recommended. This way, the medical professionals examining the patient are able to address the specific problems behind the alcohol addiction as well as the problems that are resulting from such an addiction.

A patient should still undergo a detoxification process first before he can get treatment as an outpatient. He may need the help of his family in making sure that he stays away from alcohol and in completing the detox process. After this, he can now go through the rehabilitation program.

Undergoing outpatient alcohol treatment can be comfortable for the patient and will help him get rid of alcohol addiction within his comfort zone (which can mean his home, family and friends). However, close contact with medical professional is a must because he can suffer from withdrawal symptoms which are better addressed by doctors.

One of the most important aspects of an outpatient alcohol treatment program is the group therapy. Through this, the patient gets to listen to the experiences of other alcoholics (both who have succeeded in being dry and those who are still struggling) as well as discuss the things he is going through. Knowing that he is in the company of people who are on the same boat can mean a lot and can positively affect the treatment of an outpatient alcoholic.

Alcoholism Treatment