Despite millions of people nationwide experiencing addiction, only about 25% receive professional treatment. That means that 75% of those with a drug or alcohol addiction never obtain the care they need to overcome this disease. A number this high is unnecessary, especially considering that there are several different forms of addiction treatment available. From inpatient treatment to outpatient treatment, people struggling with substance use disorders are able to recover successfully. One of the most common forms of addiction treatment is an intensive outpatient program (IOP). There are several benefits of an IOP, especially for those who are wanting to put a final stop to their active addiction once and for all.
What Is an IOP?
As mentioned before, an IOP stands for intensive outpatient programming. Individuals who participate in an IOP will receive a higher level of outpatient care than what is available in traditional outpatient programs. They will also be able to live outside of the facility during their treatment. Patients in an IOP will spend a number of days a week at the facility, where they will engage in therapeutic sessions designed to help them stop their pattern of substance abuse. Typically, IOP’s require patients to come to the facility for therapy a few times a week for a couple of hours at a time. This allows patients to uphold responsibilities outside of treatment while getting the care they need.
How Does an IOP Treat Addiction?
When enrolled in an intensive outpatient program, patients will participate in several different forms of therapy to help treat their drug or alcohol addiction. Some of the most common therapies used in this specific program include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Individual psychotherapy
- Group counseling
- Family therapy
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Dialectical behavioral therapy
- Motivational interviewing
- Contingency management
- Experiential therapy (i.e. art therapy, music therapy)
Additionally, patients are often prescribed medications that are designed to help treat their substance use disorder directly, such as methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone.
5 Benefits of an IOP for Addiction Treatment
The benefits of an IOP for addiction are endless, especially when patients put forth their very best efforts. Some of the ways that patients can benefit from an IOP are included below.
1. Remain Active in Your Life
Many people who enroll in addiction treatment are not able to remain an active part of their own lives, nevermind in the lives of anyone else. One of the benefits of an IOP for addiction treatment is that patients can get the treatment they need while still being able to live at home with their families, go to work or school, and participate in any other life events outside of treatment.
2. Develop a Connection with Community
One of the downsides of going to treatment out-of-state is establishing a connection with people who are also in the recovery community. Developing this connection is not the downside, rather not being able to remain connected with this community due to location is. When you participate in an IOP, one of the benefits is that you get to remain in your own community where you can build these relationships with others and continue to grow with them.
3. Save Money
Addiction treatment of any kind should always be viewed as an investment because that is exactly what it is. However, many addiction treatment programs cost a great deal of money, leaving individuals in a financial bind. Those who participate in an IOP can benefit from saving some money, as IOP’s are often partially or fully covered by most insurance plans.
4. Stay in School and/or Employed
One of the greatest benefits of an IOP is being able to remain in school and/or employed while getting treatment. This not only allows you to get the care you need in order to live a sober life but also lets you continue to achieve success at school and/or in your career.
5. Maintain Privacy
There is nothing to be ashamed about when obtaining treatment for a substance use disorder, however, there are many people who still choose to keep their situation private. This is one of the benefits of an IOP. Those who attend this program can maintain their privacy while still engaging in activities in their everyday lives.
Drug and Alcohol Rehab in Knoxville
There are several benefits of an IOP when it comes to addiction treatment. If you are ready to get the help you need, reach out to Tennessee Valley Recovery right now by calling or using our contact form. One of our compassionate administrative professionals will work with you to determine how we can help you begin a life of recovery.