INTENSIVE OUTPATIENT PROGRAM (IOP)
What is an Intensive Outpatient Program? (IOP)
This therapeutic treatment allows the patient to live at home, work, and still take part in IOP. They’re able to establish a strong, long-term support system and recovery program that provides the help they need. Therapy styles can vary from group therapy sessions to one-on-one consultations with a therapist. Group therapy is most commonly used as it helps addicts connect with others who are going through a similar situation. An individual therapist may also be assigned, and the patient will meet with them on a weekly basis in most cases.
There are several processes that are involved with IOP treatment. Firstly, a process called PAWS, or Post-Accute Withdrawal Syndrome is treated to help addicts cope with the symptoms and difficulties associated with withdrawal. They will also learn relapse prevention skills to help them resist the urge to do drugs or drink alcohol again. This step is absolutely crucial to patient success, since relapse can make addiction much more difficult to overcome permanently. The group therapy and induvial therapist will discuss how the patient can manage the urges and cravings that come with addition, and they’ll learn more about the brain chemistry of addiction. Arming patients with information is one of the most effective ways to help them overcome their addiction.
IOP treatment should be easily accessible for the patient with short or no waiting periods. Private IOPs can give people a faster entry to treatment. The care should be personalized, and therapists should get to know their patients on an individual basis. Addiction is not a one-size-fits-all problem, therefore, treatment should not be either. Medical care may also be provided when needed, and social support is also there in the form of peer and group therapy. Social support has been shown to help addicts recover significantly over time. This treatment should be ongoing and provide patients with the care they need so they can function as a normal part of society.
Who Can Benefit from an IOP Program?
IOP programs may not be for everyone, but they’re an excellent way to help those
who are addicted to drugs or alcohol through the recovery process
So, who is best suited for an IOP program? While everyone is different, the ideal candidate may be one of the following:
Someone who is transitioning from a higher level of care who is ready for something less intense
A person who might not need the high level of accountability associated with an inpatient program
Patients who do not have the funds or resources to take part in residential care
Addicts who have a strong support network of family and friends who are supporting their recovery efforts
People who are at a lower risk of relapse and have a stable home life
Patients who do not use drugs any longer, either via a detox program or via their own efforts
Those who are comfortable talking to and opening up in front of several people in a group setting
How to Get the Most from an IOP Program
Be open minded. Sobriety can be extremely difficult, so it’s important to listen to the advice of your therapist and be willing to listen. When you actively listen, you’re better able to integrate their suggestions into your daily life.
Learn how to communicate. Talk to your therapist and open up with your group therapy participants. The more open and honest you are, the more you will be able to get the true, honest help you need. And if you’ve made a mistake, it’s OK to admit it. Accountability is the best way to learn and do better next time.
Integrate your recovery into daily life. Once you’ve learned some helpful tools, it’s time to integrate them into your daily life. When you put the things you’ve learned into practice, you have much better odds of getting sober, sooner.
Talk to others when you need help. When times get tough, don’t be afraid to reach out to someone. It can be a close friend, a family member, or your therapist. The important thing is to be able to openly reach out to others and ask for help so you can stay on the right track.
Stay strong and steadfast. Recovering from addiction is a long and difficult road. For the best odds of success, you’ll need to be strong and never lose your willingness to get better. With the help of an IOP program, you can get the support you need to move forward and live life in a sober way. Create a solid foundation of friendship, therapy, and determination to make the most out of your addiction recovery process.