The Pros and Cons of IOP Rehab for Mental Health Disorders
Mental health disorders are nothing to be ashamed of. They are conditions that deserve medical treatment just like any other disorder. Treatment for mental health disorders is not as straightforward as for other illnesses.
Finding the right program for you can be overwhelming at times. If you have multiple issues, it might seem impossible to find the best option.
One of the best options is an IOP rehab program. Here are the pros and cons of choosing an IOP program.
Pro: Flexibility
The main benefit of an IOP program is that it is flexible.
IOP stands for intensive outpatient program. This is different from a more traditional inpatient program.
Inpatient programs are the types of rehab programs that most people are familiar with. During an inpatient treatment, you cannot leave. In some cases, you might not even be allowed to have visitors.
These programs usually last at least three weeks. This is hard for people who have families or have jobs they can’t leave.
An intensive outpatient program allows you to stay at home. It is, however, still intense. You will have to visit the alcohol rehab ma on a daily basis. You might need to take time off of work.
However, it is much more flexible than an inpatient program. You usually have some say in the hours, and you go back home at the end of the day.
It makes it easier to go along with your normal life.
Con: Transportation
You do have to drive to the rehab center.
This can be hard in areas without public transportation. And in the beginning while you’re detoxing, you might not be able to drive yourself.
Ideally, you should choose a location that is easy for you to reach. For example, if you live in Los Angeles, Studio 64 has a convenient location.
Some rehab centers might offer rides or shuttles for patients. Thanks to ridesharing apps, getting around is easier than it used to be. Using an app is much cheaper than a traditional taxi.
Check and see if public transportation is an option. Using public transportation is good for the environment and cost-efficient.
Taking the bus might take a lot longer, but it will give you some extra time to think or read. You can use this time to reflect.
Pro: Cost
Rehab is not cheap.
Inpatient programs are notoriously expensive. However, there are good reasons for the costs of rehab.
The staff who work there don’t get many breaks. They are always on duty and have to be at their best game. It’s not easy to work at a rehab center.
Rehab centers need medical equipment, too. Detoxing from drugs and alcohol is not an easy process. It’s best to do a medically supervised detox.
Security, maintenance, and food costs all add up after a while.
IOP programs do not have as many costs as inpatient programs. They don’t need to provide you with a bed, and they don’t have to have as many personnel around the clock.
On average, IOP programs are much more affordable than inpatient programs. This is great for people who are on a budget or just want to save money.
Con: Less Isolation
During an inpatient program, you’re in your world.
You’re surrounded by an environment of support. The people around you are going through the same problems. You have a professional team there to support you whenever you need help.
When you choose an IOP, you go home at the end of the day. It can be hard to concentrate when you have friends and family running around.
Find a routine that grounds you at home. For example, cook a healthy recipe from this list on Taste of Home.
Family meals are a great chance to talk about what you’re going through.
- Pro: Success Rates
Your main priority should be getting and staying sober.
Before you choose a program, check its success rates. See how many people have actually become sober and how many have stayed sober.
Unfortunately, success rates of rehab programs are not that high. But IOP programs tend to do better than traditional inpatient treatments.
This is because IOP programs prepare you for life after rehab. They give you the tools you need to succeed on your own.
Becoming sober is an accomplishment you should be proud of.
Conclusion
You should be proud that you are seeking help. Rehab will be a life changing and positive experience.