Meth Addiction Weaning

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Meth Addiction Symptoms

Methamphetamine (meth) is a highly potent and addictive synthetic stimulant drug that once started is very difficult to quit. The short-term effects of meth, such as increased confidence, more energy, and a need for less sleep, make it desirable. However, long-term use of meth causes significant destruction to health, mental health, cognition, and personal relationships. 

If you are considering quitting meth, you may wonder if meth addiction weaning is a viable withdrawal option. To learn about meth detox, withdrawal, and treatment, please read on

Signs of Meth Addiction

Meth is consumed in several ways: smoked, snorted, injected, or swallowed in pill form. The drug produces a surge of dopamine plus powerful stimulant effects. For these reasons it is possible to become addicted to meth after only one use. 

The signs of meth addiction include physical, psychological, and behavioral symptoms. Here are some of the most common symptoms of meth addiction:

  • Insomnia. The stimulant effects of meth cause the individual to be unable to sleep.
  • Loss of appetite. Meth addiction reduces the appetite, resulting in a dramatic weight loss.
  • Hyperactivity. Meth speeds up neural activity in the central nervous system. This causes rapid speech, compulsive behaviors, nervousness, euphoria, increased sexual libido, rapid eye movements, and jerky motions.
  • Paranoia. With continued use, meth can cause symptoms of psychosis, such as paranoia, hallucinations, and delusions. 
  • Skin sores. The drug causes a sensation of bugs crawling on or under the skin. This leads to compulsive itching that causes skin sores.
  • Severe tooth decay. Serious tooth decay known as meth mouth is caused by excessive dry mouth, jaw clenching and neglect of dental hygiene.
  • High-risk erratic behaviors. Impulsive behaviors include, driving under the influence, stealing and other illegal activities, and unsafe sexual practices.
  • Trouble with the law. Meth addicts often have legal problems, such as DUIs, child neglect, or arrests for theft or violence. 
  • Aging skin. Over time, the facial skin takes on a loose, droopy tone. Other skin effects include facial sores and an odd odor to the skin.
  • Paraphernalia. The addict uses various items. These include small plastic bags, aluminum foil strips, lighters, hollowed out pens, cut straws, glass tubes, syringes, armbands, and spoons.

Adverse Effects of Meth Addiction

This dangerous synthetic drug can cause immense destruction in someone’s life. Drug addiction, cognitive impairment, loss of employment, strained relationships, memory loss, and health problems are just some examples.

Here are some additional adverse effects of meth addiction:

  • Psychosis. Long-term use of meth may result in severe mental health crisis including delusions, paranoid thoughts, and hallucinations.
  • Brain damage. The toxic chemicals in meth have the potential to cause permanent brain damage.
  • Parkinson’s disease. A recent study showed that meth addicts were at an increase risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.
  • High-risk behaviors. Meth reduces a person’s ability to control their impulses, which can result in them engaging in dangerous activities.
  • Explosions and fires. The process of making meth in a makeshift lab or home is very dangerous due to the ingredients being heated. These can cause explosions.
  • Accidental overdose. Meth overdose may result in heart attack, stroke, or by organ failure caused by overheating.

Why Meth Should Not be Stopped Cold Turkey

If you are wondering if meth addiction weaning is a possible way to quit the drug, the truth is it just isn’t. This drug is different than opioids, where gradual weaning reduces withdrawal severity. With a meth addiction, weaning is not an option. 

However, it is important not to attempt quitting meth cold turkey on your own. Quitting suddenly without detox and withdrawal support can have tragic results, such as suicide. Starting with the meth crash, the forthcoming withdrawal symptoms will overwhelm you and cause you to return to the drug.

With a monitored meth detox, withdrawal is still difficult but you will receive ongoing support by a trained detox team. The detox team provides key medical interventions once withdrawal symptoms start to surface, which helps to stabilize you. In addition, you will also receive psychological support as needed. After the detox is complete, you will be stable enough to start rehab.

Meth Addiction Withdrawal Timeline

The stages of meth withdrawal begin about 24 hours after last usage. Although the period for withdrawal and the severity of symptoms varies between individual, the process follows these three stages:

Stage One. The earliest stage of withdrawal lasts about 24-48 hours. It features intense fatigue and lethargy, mood swings, abdominal cramping, sweating, and excessive sleeping.

Stage Two. The second stage of withdrawal features an intensification of symptoms and lasts a day or two. Symptoms include agitation, shaking, muscle aches, decline in cognitive function, drug cravings, irritability, and possibly acting out violently.

Stage Three. The last stage of the meth withdrawal can last about two weeks. Even though the physical withdrawal symptoms mostly resolved, there are still other symptoms that linger. These may include fatigue, depression, mild cravings, cognitive issues, anxiety, and sleep problems.

Treatment Options for Meth Addiction

To achieve sustained abstinence from meth, a professional outpatient or residential treatment program is needed. Receiving this expert guidance and support offers the best chance of recovery success, as it helps you change behaviors. To date, there are no specific drugs to assist in reducing meth dependence, so behavioral therapies are the best option.

Treatment for meth addiction includes:

Individual psychotherapy. Taking part in talk therapy sessions includes cognitive behavioral therapy. CBT has been shown to be the most effective modality for treating meth addiction as it targets behavioral change. 

Group therap. Group sessions are led by a therapist or addictions counselor who facilitates discussion among the group around various recovery topics.

Dual diagnosis treatment. Because co-occurring mental health disorders are common among meth addicts, any comorbid condition is also treated.

Holistic. You will engage in various holistic methods that help induce relaxation and self-soothing.

12-step recovery program: A.A.’s 12-step themes are often included in the treatment program. After rehab you are encouraged to participate in a local A.A. or N.A. recovery group for ongoing social support.

Bodhi Addiction Treatment Provides Safe Meth Detox and Withdrawal

Bodhi Addiction Treatment offers expert meth addiction weaning through a monitored detox and withdrawal to guide you safely off the drug. We offer comprehensive outpatient treatment services immediately following the detox. If a more intensive treatment approach is needed, we will refer you to a high quality residential rehab. If you are struggling with met addiction, please reach out today at (831) 515-1657.

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Adderall Addiction Treatment

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adderall addiction

Adderall is a prescription stimulant drug that has been very effective in the treatment of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). As a stimulant, Adderall has come to be misused by students as a aid to increase focus and stamina. As a highly addictive stimulant, someone may find themselves chemically addicted to the drug. To learn about the dangers of this prescription drug and what to expect in Adderall addiction treatment, please read on.

What Is Adderall?

Adderall is a Schedule II controlled substance that is composed of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. The stimulant drug is primarily intended for the treatment of ADHD and narcolepsy. However, Adderall has become a drug of abuse among students and young adults who seek its stimulant properties.

While Adderall abuse has been declining among high school students in recent years, it has increased in the young adult cohort. From 2020 to 2021 Adderall prescription fills increased by 10%, for a total of 41.4 million Adderall fills in 2021.

When individuals with no medical necessity misuse Adderall, it produces a state of euphoria by increasing dopamine production in the brain. This effect is not experienced in a patient being treated with Adderall for ADHD. The euphoric effects, plus an increase in energy and cognitive focus, attract students who seek the drug as a study aid.

Who Is Prone to Adderall Misuse?
Many people who take Adderall off-label feel that it is a safe drug because doctors prescribe it for many of their peers who have ADHD. They are not aware that the drug reacts in the brain in a similar way to cocaine or meth, and that they can quickly become addicted.

There are various factors that might make an individual more prone to Adderall misuse. The pressures of school and work may prompt young people to turn to a stimulant drug like Adderall to help them keep up.

The groups that are at higher risk for developing an Adderall addiction include:

  • College students. A report cites that 60% of all Adderall consumption was by 18-25 year old’s. This age group may also use Adderall to offset the effects of alcohol when partying.
  • Athletes. High school, college, and even professional athletes misuse Adderall as a performance-enhancing drug.
  • Individuals with disordered eating. Individuals wishing to lose weight misuse Adderall for its appetite suppressing effects.
  • Adults with high-stress jobs. Working adults with demanding jobs misuse Adderall to increase energy and the ability to work long hours.

What are Signs of Adderall Addiction?

Adderall, when misused on a regular basis by those without ADHD, can quickly become habit-forming or addictive. This occurs as the body begins to build up tolerance to the drug’s effects, which leads to higher dosing.

Some of the telltale signs of an Adderall addiction might include:

  • Being unable to function or to complete tasks without the drug
  • Feeling sluggish when not on the drug
  • Irritability
  • Decreased libido
  • Sudden weight loss
  • Insomnia
  • Aggression
  • Needing more Adderall to attain desired effects
  • Not able to cut back or quit the Adderall
  • Obsessed about obtaining the drug and keeping a supply of it
  • Continue taking Adderall even though it is causing adverse effects
  • Use Adderall in risky ways, such as combining it with other substances
  • Social withdrawal
  • Secretive behavior
  • Have withdrawal symptoms when Adderall wears off

 

What to Expect in Adderall Addiction Treatment

 

Chronic Adderall abuse can take a heavy toll on both mental and physical health. Prolonged Adderall use can result in organ damage, long-term cognitive impairment, and an increased risk of injuries.

 

If you or a loved one is struggling with Adderall misuse and are ready to commit to abstinence, consider addiction treatment. An outpatient or residential treatment program can provide you with the recovery tools you’ll need to overcome an Adderall addiction.

Here is what to expect in Adderall addiction treatment:

  • Detox. Our recovery journey begins with detox and withdrawal, the process of eliminating the drug from your system. During the detox, you will experience withdrawal symptoms that range from mild to severe, depending on the extent of the Adderall problem. Withdrawal symptoms might include:
    • Fatigue
    • Extreme
    • Headaches
    • Insomnia
    • Nausea
    • Agitation
    • Mental fog
    • Irritability
    • Insomnia or hypersomnia
    • Depression
    • Suicidal thoughts

    The detox team closely monitors the symptoms and provides medication to help relieve them throughout the process.

  • Individual therapy. These one-to-one sessions with a therapist help you to work on changing addiction behaviors through evidence-based therapies.
  • Group sessions. Group therapy offers a safe, supportive space to discuss personal experiences and feelings with peers in recovery.
  • Family counseling. Because struggling with Adderall problem are young college-aged adults, family-focused groups can be provide support of the family.
  • 12-step facilitation. The 12-step program is helpful in early recovery as it provides benchmarks to guild you as you progress.
  • Holistic methods. Holistic activities provide added tools to help you succeed in the treatment and recovery process. Meditation, yoga, and focused breathing techniques help you to better manage stress.
  • Relapse prevention planning. Making a custom relapse prevention plan is an essential recovery tool.

Secure Adderall Recovery with Aftercare

Detox and rehab provide the foundation for Adderall recovery. However, in order to secure your Adderall-free lifestyle you will need to engage in aftercare actions. Working with your case manager, you will devise an aftercare strategy. Some of these actions might include:

  • Outpatient therapy. Whether you have completed a residential treatment program or an intensive outpatient program, it is good to continue with therapy. Weekly therapy sessions or support group sessions can be an essential source of ongoing support.
  • Recovery group. When you are starting a sober lifestyle, it always helps to find peers in recovery for added support. There are several types of recovery groups out there, such as A.A., N.A., SMART Recovery, and more. These groups provide a source for new sober friendships and they become part of your support network.

Bodhi Addiction Treatment & Wellness Outpatient Adderall Addiction Treatment

Bodhi Addiction Treatment is an outpatient addiction treatment program that blend holistic wellness methods with evidence-based therapies. If you are struggling with Adderally, reach out to the Bodhi team today at(877) 328-1968.

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Meth Addiction Symptoms

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Meth Addiction Symptoms

Methamphetamine (crystal meth or meth) is a highly addictive and harmful substance that stimulates the central nervous system. Meth is associated with about 25% of emergency room visits, mostly within the 26 to 44-age bracket of users. To learn more meth addiction symptoms and its effects on the mind and body, please read on.

Learn About Meth

Meth is an illicit substance that is used in a variety of ways for recreational use. These include smoking, orally using pill form, snorting, and injecting the drug. Meth may be purchased in a white powder form, which can be fine or coarse in appearance. Meth can take on hues of pink or yellow when cut with various additives. The drug is also distributed in rock or crystal form.

Meth is a Schedule II controlled substance, meaning it has a high potential for abuse and addiction. Meth is produced using the stimulants ephedrine and pseudoephedrine and combined with common household products to enhance the psychoactive effects. These products might include antifreeze, lithium, hydrogen peroxide, drain cleaner, and Freon.

Effects of Meth

Someone who ingests meth will experience a short-lived high that includes increased euphoria, heightened energy, increased alertness, and wellbeing. However, there are also some common adverse effects, such as:

  • Hyperactivity, mania
  • Tremors
  • Shortness of breath
  • Vomiting
  • Irritability
  • Decreased appetite and weight loss
  • Diarrhea
  • Weigh loss
  • Insomnia

How Meth Impacts Your Life

Individuals who become addicted to meth suffer many terrible consequences. Due to the toxic substances contained in meth, there can be harsh effects on the body. Equally severe are the various other effects this drug can have on someone’s life. These negative effects may include:

  • Loss of bone density
  • Severe dental decay
  • Abscesses and skin infections
  • Weaken immune system
  • HIV/AIDS and hepatitis B or C
  • Cognitive impairment
  • Memory loss
  • Isolation
  • Strained relationships
  • Job instability
  • Academic failure
  • Finance problems
  • Legal problems
  • Mental health problems
  • Suicidal thoughts or actions

Why is Meth so Dangerous?

There is good reason to be very concerned about someone who is engaging in meth use. This is a dangerous compound that can have many life threatening or life altering effects. Consider these:

  • Addiction. Meth is highly addictive because it releases a flood of dopamine in the brain, which results in drug seeking behaviors. This sets in motion the meth addiction symptoms that follow. A person can get addicted after just one use.
  • Brain damage. The toxic chemicals in meth have the potential to cause permanent brain damage.
  • Psychosis. Long-term use of meth may result in severe mental health crisis including delusions, paranoid thoughts, and hallucinations.
  • Parkinson’s disease. A recent study showed that meth addicts were at an increase risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.
  • High-risk behaviors. Meth reduces a person’s ability to control their impulses, which can result in them engaging in dangerous activities.
  • Explosions and fires. The process of making meth in a makeshift lab or home is very dangerous due to the ingredients being heated. These can cause explosions.
  • Overdose. Meth overdose may result in heart attack, stroke, or by organ failure caused by overheating.

Meth Addiction Signs and Symptoms

So, how do you know if someone is using meth or is addicted to the drug? What are the red flags to look out for?

Regular use of the drug leads to increased tolerance. This leads the person to use higher doses of meth in an attempt to achieve the desired effects. In time, the common signs of a meth problem begin to surface. Meth addiction symptoms cover a broad gamut and include:

  • Trying to stop using meth but cannot
  • Stealing money to buy the drug
  • Continuing to use meth despite the negative effects
  • Social withdrawal
  • Impulsive behaviors
  • Obsessed with obtaining and using meth
  • Unusual bursts of energy
  • Lack of sleep
  • Weight loss
  • Agitation
  • Severe mood swings
  • Frequent absences from work
  • Mental confusion
  • Tooth decay
  • Poor hygiene
  • Signs of psychosis
  • How Meth Affects the Mind

Studies have shown that because meth affects the central nervous system, ongoing use can cause the destruction of brain cells or neurons. The death of neurons then causes brain damage in a number of areas in the brain that can be permanent.

Meth also has an outsized effect on mental health. Some of the ways meth addiction symptoms can include mental health are:

  • Insomnia
  • Violent tendencies
  • Homicidal or suicidal thoughts
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Paranoia
  • Feeling that bugs are crawling under the skin
  • Reduced concentration
  • Memory impairment
  • Psychosis

How to Break Free from a Meth Addiction

Meth addiction is very difficult to overcome, although definitely possible. To be successful, it is critical that you or the loved one enroll in detox and then a treatment program. Here are the steps for meth addiction recovery:

  • Meth detox. Detox and withdrawal is the first step in recovery. Detox is the process of ridding the body of any meth still in the system. Withdrawal symptoms are difficult to endure without professional oversight, especially the mental health effects of withdrawal. The detox team provides both medical and emotional support.Symptoms may include:
    • Nausea and vomiting
    • Diarrhea
    • Extreme fatigue
    • Intense cravings
    • Dry mouth
    • Shaking
    • Lethargy and sleepiness
    • Insomnia or hypersomnia
    • Nightmares
    • Increased appetite
    • Agitation
    • Mood swings
    • Confusion
    • Anxiety
    • Depression
    • Paranoia
  • Therapy. Individual and group therapy sessions involve working with licensed therapists to examine any underlying factors that drive the addictive behaviors.
  • Psycho-social education. You will engage in classes that teach new coping skills to help you navigate recovery and avoid meth relapse.
  • 12-step. Recovery programs like A.A., N.A., or SMART Recovery are often woven into the treatment milieu.
  • Dual diagnosis. Many times someone with a meth addiction also has a co-occurring mental health disorder which will also be treated during rehab.
  • Holistic methods. A whole person focus allows you to explore holistic activities that provide healing of both mind and body.

Bodhi Addiction Treatment & Wellness Offers Guidance for Meth Addiction

Bodhi Addiction Treatment is an outpatient program that also provides interventions and referrals to high quality residential treatment centers. If you recognize the meth addiction symptoms in a loved one, please reach out to us today for support and guidance at (877) 328-1968.

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What is Coke Jaw

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What is Coke Jaw?

Most people are familiar with the affects of cocaine on the nose and the damage to nasal tissues and cartilage. However, cocaine also causes damage to the mouth, teeth, and jaw by something called coke jaw. So, what is coke jaw?

Some Basic Facts About Cocaine (Coke)

Cocaine, also known as coke, is a powdered substance derived from the coca leaf. Cocaine is a strong stimulant that speeds up the central nervous system. The effects of cocaine on the central nervous system and brain include increased heart and breathing rates. As a recreational drug, cocaine provides several desired effects, such as euphoria, increased energy, sharp focus, and improved mood.

Cocaine effects are very short-lived, though, which can cause the person to continue using the drug to prolong the high. Continued use of cocaine eventually results in addiction and chronic constriction of blood vessels.

Cocaine is a DEA designated Schedule II controlled substance, meaning it is highly addictive. It is also being implicated in overdose deaths in recent years. This is due to fentanyl being inserted into cocaine supplies, causing people to unknowingly ingest the deadly opioid.

What is Coke Jaw?

Cocaine use causes people to clench the jaw and grind the teeth, called bruxism. As they clench their teeth they wear the enamel down and cause loose teeth. Long-term cocaine abuse can also cause involuntary spasms that result in uncontrollable jaw clenching.

The stimulant properties in cocaine cause hyperactive muscle movements, including the muscles that control the jaw. The person moves the jaw or mouth from side to side, often without even realizing it.

Cocaine can be ingested in various ways, including snorting, smoking, injecting a liquefied form, and rubbing it on the gums. This last delivery method can lead to direct damage of the mouth and jaw.

Is Coke Jaw the Same as Coke Mouth?

Coke jaw and coke mouth are two side effects of cocaine on oral health. Coke mouth refers mostly to a condition called xerostomia, otherwise known as dry mouth. Cocaine abuse can lead to dry mouth because of a decrease in saliva production.

Because saliva protects the gums and teeth from acids, any decrease in saliva puts them at risk. The extra acids in the mouth can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.

Coke jaw, on the other hand, also impacts the mouth and teeth, but is caused by uncontrollable jaw clenching and teeth grinding.

Signs of Coke Jaw

Chances are if you are wondering, “What is coke jaw?” you may have a friend or relative with a cocaine problem. If the person has signs of oral trauma along with other symptoms associated with cocaine addiction, it might be coke jaw.

Most of the signs of coke jaw are also signs of temporomandibular disorder (TMD). TMD affects how you chew, talk, swallow, and open and close your mouth. Symptoms that TMD and coke jaw share include:

  • Tooth grinding
  • Jaw clenching
  • Dental erosion
  • Increased tooth sensitivity
  • Headaches
  • Jaw joint pain
  • Clicking or popping sound in jaw joint
  • Facial pain or soreness

What are the Effects of Coke Jaw?

Coke jaw can cause substantial damage to the mouth, teeth, and jaw. The effects of coke jaw include:

  • Loose teeth
  • Worn down tooth enamel
  • Tooth decay
  • Bleeding gums
  • Periodontal disease
  • Mouth ulcers
  • Perforation of the oral palate
  • Infection of the jaw bone

Coke Jaw and Cocaine Addiction

When cocaine is used repeatedly for an extended period, it often results in addiction. The addiction is directly related to the brain’s reward system, which imprints the use of cocaine as a positive experience. This drives cocaine cravings and abuse, and leads to cocaine addiction. Coke jaw is just one of the overt signs of cocaine addiction.

Other signs and symptoms of cocaine abuse and addiction include:

  • Sudden weight loss
  • Less need for sleep
  • Frequent nosebleeds
  • Rapid speech
  • Manic moods
  • Cocaine drug cravings
  • Cannot cut back or quit cocaine, even if the person wants to
  • Increased tolerance that causes higher doses or more frequent cocaine use
  • Chronic runny nose and sniffing
  • Obsessed with obtaining cocaine and planning the next high
  • Seeking cocaine from sketchy sources
  • Severe money problems
  • Continue to use cocaine, despite the problems it causes
  • Engaging in high-risk or impulsive behaviors
  • Neglecting daily responsibilities
  • Has withdrawal symptoms when coke wears off

Finding Help for Coke Addiction: Cocaine Detox

Cocaine detox and withdrawal is similar to other stimulants that affect the nervous system in this way. While there are uncomfortable physical symptoms, cocaine withdrawal causes mostly mental health distress. Without a skilled detox team watching over someone throughout the process, the person can be so overwhelmed by the symptoms. Suicidal thoughts are the most worrisome problem that occurs during cocaine withdrawal.

Cocaine withdrawal symptoms include:

  • Extreme fatigue
  • Depression
  • Slowed thinking
  • Headaches
  • Agitation
  • Sleep problems
  • Intense nightmares
  • Restlessness
  • Increased appetite
  • Hallucinations
  • Paranoid thoughts
  • Muscle aches
  • Chills
  • Suicidal thoughts

The cocaine detox timeline is about one week. Once the detox is complete it is time to transfer into the treatment phase.

Treatment for Coke Addiction

After you have safely completed a cocaine detox, it is time to start the addiction treatment program. There are two levels of outpatient care available, intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization. Outpatient programs provide flexibility in scheduling treatment sessions, and allow you to reside at home while participating in the program.

Core treatment elements include:

  • Individual psychotherapy sessions
  • Group therapy sessions
  • Family group
  • Addiction education
  • Relapse prevention planning
  • 12-step program
  • Holistic activities

The length of your outpatient program is determined by the severity of the cocaine addiction. The average duration of an outpatient rehab is 90 days.

Once a period of recovery has been achieved, some of the coke jaw symptoms might resolve. Consult a dentist for repairing broken or decayed teeth, and a periodontist can treat any remaining gum damage.

Bodhi Addiction Treatment Outpatient Treatment for Cocaine Addiction

Bodhi Addiction Treatment is a holistic and evidence-based intensive outpatient rehab that can help you overcome cocaine addiction. If you are ready to break free from the hold of cocaine over you, please reach out to us today at (877) 328-1968.

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What are Outpatient Treatment Programs?

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What are Outpatient Treatment Programs?

When seeking rehab options for a substance use disorder you have two basic options: residential rehab or outpatient rehab. While each of these treatment options has unique benefits and features, this article will focus on outpatient rehabs. So, what are outpatient treatment programs and is it the right choice for you?

What is an Outpatient Treatment Program?

Outpatient treatment programs are a widely used option for individuals seeking to overcome a substance use disorder. The outpatient option is best for those with an emerging or mild substance problem. It offers comprehensive treatment elements while also providing the flexibility to continue to reside at home. For individuals with a long-term drug or alcohol addiction, a residential treatment program would be a better solution.

About Outpatient Rehab

If you are wondering, “What are outpatient treatment programs,” you will learn all about them here. Outpatient addiction treatment takes place in treatment centers for a prescribed number of hours per week. This commuter treatment option is preferable for those who can’t take a leave of absence from work or family obligations.

Outpatient treatment is less intensive than residential programs, which feature a full schedule of daily treatment activities. However, outpatient rehabs tend to be longer term, with most outpatient programs lasting 3-6 months.

Outpatient treatment centers are equipped to treat a wide range of substance use disorders. There include:

  • Alcohol use disorder
  • Opioid use disorder
  • Heroin
  • Methamphetamine
  • Benzodiazepine use disorder
  • Prescription stimulant use disorder
  • Prescription depressant use disorder
  • Cocaine
  • Marijuana
  • Synthetic drugs

Outpatient treatment comes in different levels of intensity. Many people begin at the highest level of outpatient intensity and then step down over time. As well, those who have completed an inpatient program often step down to outpatient treatment.

What are the Benefits of an Outpatient Rehab Program?

When researching outpatient versus inpatient rehabs, you will learn there are pros and cons of each option. Some of the benefits of outpatient treatment include:

  • More flexible. Outpatient offers flexibility in scheduling treatment sessions
  • Freedom. You are able to continue to engage with work, family, and friends while enrolled in treatment
  • Less expensive. Outpatient treatment is available at a lower cost than residential rehabs
  • Continuum of care. Able to step down to reduced levels of care when recovery benchmarks are met
  • Access to support. Outpatient offers easier access to the support of family and friends
  • Case management. There is coordination of adjunct and aftercare services

Even with its many advantages, outpatient care isn’t suitable for everyone. Some of the drawbacks to consider include:

  • Exposure to substances. If the home environment exposes you to alcohol and drugs, it will be difficult to remain sober.
  • Exposure to friends who use. Interaction with people you used to party with will undermine sobriety.
  • Temptation to quit. Being at home around family and friends, especially when holidays or festive occasions arise, may tempt you to stop treatment.

Types of Outpatient Treatment

There are three types of outpatient addiction treatment. These include:

  • Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP): The PHP, also called day programs, offer the highest level of outpatient care. PHP involves an intensive schedule of about 30 hours of programming per week. The PHP offers detox services, mental health services, individual and group therapy, and a physician on site.
  • Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): The IOP provides a well-rounded outpatient program of about 9 hours of programming per week. Program elements include psychotherapy, addiction education, and 12-step programming, with detox services referred out.
  • Outpatient Continuing Care: This is the least intensive outpatient rehab. Basic outpatient therapy is a step down for those who have completed an IOP or a residential program.

Types of Therapy in Outpatient Rehab

Outpatient treatment programs utilize a broad range of therapies to help individuals make important changes in their behavior patterns. These include:

  • Individual therapy. In these one-to-one sessions, you explore dysfunctional behavior patterns that keep you locked in the addiction cycle. Therapies like CBT and DBT guide you toward making needed changes that help to strengthen your recovery.
  • Group therapy sessions. Outpatient programs focus much of their treatment on group sessions. It is believed that peer interaction and social support are essential for making progress in treatment. During group sessions, a clinician provides topics for each meeting.
  • Family therapy. A healthy family system is central for creating needed support and boundaries within a safe and supportive space. Family sessions are geared toward improving communication and conflict resolution skills.
  • Holistic activities. Outpatient programs often provide yoga and meditation to aid in stress management.
  • Medication management. Medications may be useful to help manage cravings and reduce relapse.

How to Sustain Recovery After Outpatient Treatment

Once your outpatient rehab program has been completed, your main focus turns to avoiding a relapse. Here are some actions that can help reinforce sobriety after rehab:

  1. Self care. To manage stress, it is important to access self-care strategies. These might include deep breathing techniques, yoga, mindfulness training, meditation, massage, and acupuncture.
  2. Make new friends. To avoid feelings of boredom or loneliness it is crucial to form new sober friendships. Find new sober friends through support groups, sober clubs, sober travel groups, and sober gyms.
  3. Recovery community. Find a local A.A. or N.A. or SMART Recovery group and attend meetings regularly.
  4. Sober living. Sober living housing can be very helpful if you don’t enjoy a supportive home environment. Sober living provides housing that is drug and alcohol free during the early months of recovery.
  5. Get healthy. Substance use recovery should also involve new healthy habits. The stronger and healthier you feel, the lower your chance of relapse. Clean up your diet, get daily exercise, and make sure you get enough sleep each night.

If you are looking into rehab options and wanted to know what are outpatient treatment programs, now you know. Help is available, so reach out now.

Bodhi Addiction Treatment Offers Outpatient Addiction Rehab Services

Bodhi Addiction Treatment has created the Bodhi Wellness Program to assist individuals seeking help for substance use disorder. If you are wondering what are outpatient treatment programs like at Bodhi, please reach out to us today at (877) 328-1968.

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