woman talks to her alcoholic parent

How To Help An Alcoholic Parent

by with No Comment Addiction TreatmentAlcohol AddictionFamily Resources

Knowing how to deal with an alcoholic parent is vital to the health of your family. You can’t control their behaviors, but establishing healthy boundaries can keep you from burning out or overreacting. In addition, you can help them find treatment—when they are ready to accept help.

Creekside Recovery Residences can help your alcoholic parent when they accept that they need treatment. But, if they are not ready yet, the following tips can help you deal with your parent’s problematic drinking:

8 Tips to Deal With an Alcoholic Parent

It can be tough to deal with an alcoholic parent—even when you are an adult. Oftentimes, unresolved feelings about past behaviors during childhood can get in the way of seeing your parent as a person who struggles.

However, there are ways that you can help your alcoholic parent—or at the very least, accept the situation for what it is without burning yourself out in the process.

#1. Help Yourself

The first and most important step in dealing with any loved one who struggles with problematic behaviors is to help yourself. You’re going to have strong feelings come up when dealing with your parent. These feelings can start to drive your reactions and behaviors when they are unresolved.

Helping yourself can include a lot of things. Sometimes, it’s as simple as walking away for a few minutes to calm down if you’re arguing with your parent. Other times, it’s engaging in self-care activities, like exercise, listening to music, or journaling.

But you might need to go deeper and work with a therapist to resolve any lingering issues with your parent. If your parent has been drinking all of your life, they can help you cope with the long-term effects of growing up with an alcoholic parent.

In addition, support groups like Al-Anon and Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACA) can help you feel less alone and provide additional tips.

#2. Learn More About Alcoholism

One of the other benefits of the support groups mentioned above is that you will learn more about the disease of alcoholism. This can help you put things into perspective so you see your parent as a person struggling.

You can also attend open meetings for Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Open meetings allow nonalcoholics to observe. Sometimes, hearing about other people’s experiences can provide insight into your parent’s behaviors.

There are also resources online that provide valuable information about alcoholism, including:

#3. Build a Support System

Dealing with an alcoholic parent isn’t easy, but it’s easier when other people support you. Adult children of alcoholics often feel shame about their parent’s behaviors. This can get in the way of talking to other people about what is going on.

However, it is critical that you develop a good support system to prevent yourself from getting burnt out. If you have siblings or a non-drinking parent, reach out to share the responsibility. Also, if your alcoholic parent has siblings, they can offer support for you as well.

Your support system can help you host interventions and encourage your parent to get help. They can also pitch in if you need to take your alcoholic parent to an AA meeting or a rehab program. Some examples could be someone to babysit your children or watch your pets if you need to be with your alcoholic parent.

Other times, you just need someone to talk to. You can talk to a trusted friend about the issues or a sponsor in a support group for families of alcoholics.

#4. Let Go of Guilt and Responsibility

Besides shame, guilt and responsibility over your parent’s drinking can get in the way of helping them. Their drinking is not—and never was—your fault. Taking on guilt and too much responsibility for other people’s behaviors can lead to burnout.

#5. Set Healthy and Respectful Boundaries (Without Enabling)

Healthy and respectful boundaries are important when dealing with an alcoholic parent. On one hand, you want to be firm so you aren’t enabling their behaviors. On the other hand, they are still your parent, and you want them to be a part of your life.

Boundaries are going to look different for everyone. Essentially, you are setting your own expectations and limits while not trying to control another’s behaviors.

Examples of healthy and respectful boundaries with alcoholic parents include:

  • Not allowing any drinking at your home. What they do in their home is their business, but you won’t let it happen under your roof.
  • Avoid them when you know they are most likely to be drinking. For example, if certain dates or holidays trigger your parent’s drinking, then you might not want to contact them at that time. Also, if your parent drinks at a certain time of the day, avoid calling or visiting at that time.
  • No longer paying for fines and legal fees. If you’ve paid for any legal consequences—like DUI or disorderly conduct charges—for your parent’s problematic drinking, you can refuse to do so from now on.
  • Don’t allow your parent to babysit their grandchildren when drunk. This can be tough—you probably don’t want to cut your parent out of your grandchildren’s lives. However, you can set a limit—perhaps they can visit, but can’t be relied on as a sitter.

#6. Don’t Talk to Your Parent When They Are Drunk

As mentioned above, not talking to your parent when they are drunk is an important boundary. However, this point needs to be emphasized. When you find your parent drunk, this is not the time to talk to them about their drinking.

Oftentimes, you want to succumb to knee-jerk reactions when your parent is drinking. You might want to lecture them or confront them about what they are doing in the moment. You might even believe they need to hear it out when the problem behavior occurs or the consequences won’t stick.

Unfortunately, talking to your parent about their behaviors while they are drunk doesn’t help anyone. Maybe it feels good for a fleeting moment to let it out, but it never helps in the long term.

For instance, they will likely say something you don’t want to hear. Conversely, they might agree with you to get help just to get you off their back for now. But, in the end, they probably won’t remember anything you’ve discussed.

#7. Helping Vs. Enabling (What’s the Difference?)

There’s a difference between helping someone with their problematic drinking and enabling their behaviors. Sometimes, what you think is helpful could enable them to continue drinking. In other words, you unintentionally send the message that problem drinking is okay.

It can be difficult to define enabling exactly, but some examples can illustrate the point. For instance, if you bail them out of jail when they get a DUI, you could be enabling. Or, if you make excuses for them when they are unable to fulfill their responsibilities to work or the family due to being drunk or hungover.

Essentially, enabling shields your parent from the consequences of their actions. Helping, however, requires maintaining your boundaries, offering support to help them treat their addiction, or taking care of things for them at home if they go to treatment.

#8. Be Realistic: You Can’t Control Their Drinking

Lastly, remember to be realistic about your expectations when dealing with an alcoholic parent. You can’t control their drinking and related problematic behaviors. You can only control your responses to their drinking.

By letting go of control, you will be more effective and present if your parent is finally ready to get treatment.

Treatment Options for Your Alcoholic Parent

Depending on where your parent is in their addiction or their recovery, there are several treatment options available, including:

  • Alcohol Detox: This is the first step to treating addiction. During detox, your alcoholic parent will get the professional support they need to manage withdrawal symptoms safely.
  • Residential Treatment: After detox, many people go into a residential treatment center, also called inpatient rehab. Many clients stay in residential treatment for 30 to 90 days to build a foundation for long-term recovery.
  • Outpatient Rehab: After residential treatment, it’s best to continue with outpatient treatment. Many treatment centers offer step-down programs so that your parent can transition gradually from higher to lower levels of care.
  • Sober Living Homes: During outpatient treatment, your parent might want to consider a sober living home. That way, they still get support and accountability for their sobriety in the early stages of recovery.
  • Recovery Coaching/Sober Companions: Recovery coaches and sober companions can accompany your parent during the early stages of recovery. They can offer additional support, check-ins, and companionship.
  • Case Management: The role of a case manager is to help their clients obtain additional resources to support their recovery. For example, your parent might need a doctor, legal services, safe housing, or co-occurring mental health treatment.

Get Help for Your Alcoholic Parent Today

If you have to deal with an alcoholic parent, remember that you are not alone. Support groups can help you deal with your own emotions and offer valuable tips about what to do—and what not to do. In addition, it helps to contact addiction treatment centers for more information about their services.

Creekside Recovery Residences is here to help your alcoholic parent when they are ready. Contact us today to learn more.

father isn't sure how to deal with alcoholic adult son

7 Ways To Help Your Alcoholic Adult Son

by with No Comment Addiction TreatmentAlcohol AddictionFamily Resources

Knowing how to deal with an alcoholic son is a challenge for parents of adult children with an addiction. However, there are ways to help your son to put them on the path to recovery.

Creekside Recovery Residences offers sober living programs for men in recovery from alcohol addiction. When your son is ready for treatment, we’ll be here to guide you through the process.

In the meantime, here are seven ways you can help your alcoholic son:

#1. Get Help for Yourself

When your adult son struggles with alcoholism, this can take a toll on your mental health. It’s understandable to be upset or stressed out dealing with an alcoholic adult son. But it’s important to acknowledge how it affects you and to learn healthy coping skills.

Oftentimes, addiction treatment centers offer support for family members of alcoholics or addicts. This gives you a place to vent, process, and manage your emotions about your son’s behavior.

#2. Attend Family Support Groups

Support groups for families of alcoholics and addicts are great places to get additional help for your own feelings on the issue. One of the most common groups is Al-Anon, which is geared specifically toward family members of alcoholics. However, you can also find other support groups in your community to help you.

#3. Build a Support System

It’s also important to build a support system of family and friends. When you deal with an alcoholic son, other members of your family are affected by the issue. You can all lean on one another for support so that no one gets burnt out by taking on too much.

Your support system can include people you can talk to about the situation, like friends and co-workers. In addition, the people in your support system can help when you need to take your adult son to appointments or treatment programs. For example, you might need a friend to watch a pet while you drive your son to a rehab center out of town.

#4. Set Boundaries and Limits

Setting boundaries and limits are important skills when learning how to deal with an alcoholic son. Without boundaries and limits, you could be unintentionally enabling their addiction or other problematic behaviors.

Some examples of healthy boundaries and limits for an alcoholic son include:

  • Not making excuses for their behavior
  • Not allowing alcohol in your home
  • Not shielding them from the consequences of their actions
  • No longer giving them money or financial support

Remember: the key to setting healthy boundaries and limits isn’t to control your son’s behavior. Rather, it is about controlling your responses to their alcoholism and problematic behaviors.

#5. Learn More About Alcoholism and Treatment

One of the best ways to deal with an alcoholic son is to learn more about alcoholism as well as treatment. Learning more about alcoholism can provide the following benefits:

  • Alleviates feelings of guilt, shame, and self-blame
  • Sympathize with what your son is dealing with
  • Understand the underlying causes of addiction

By learning more about how alcohol addiction is treated, you can help your alcoholic son explore options when they are ready for treatment.

#6. Know What NOT to Say or Do

Of course, there are some things that you want to avoid doing or saying when helping your alcoholic son. The following are things to avoid:

  • Don’t give ultimatums or make threats. Although you might feel like this is in their best interest, ultimatums and threats can ruin your relationship with your son. They can also be difficult for you to uphold—making you seem inconsistent.
  • Don’t confront them—especially if they are currently under the influence. Confrontations about alcoholism aren’t helpful. Instead, discuss the issue from a place of concern and be non-judgmental. Also, never confront an alcoholic about their drinking when they are under the influence. This won’t help anyone and could ignite intense emotions.
  • Don’t blame them. Alcoholism, and any issues related to it, are your son’s responsibility to manage and face the consequences of. However, acknowledging responsibility and facing consequences isn’t the same as taking blame. Blaming them for the issue doesn’t help them come around to dealing with it—it usually makes things worse.
  • Don’t lecture or criticize. Sometimes, parents revert to how they dealt with their son as a child or adolescent. But, now you must talk to your alcoholic son as an adult. Lecturing or criticizing them for their actions could create distance from you and your son.
  • Don’t give mixed messages. If you keep your drinking under control, you might struggle to understand what alcoholism is like for your son. Sometimes, you might pressure them to have a drink or two on holidays or special occasions—rationalizing that they can handle just one. Alternatively, you might drink heavily in front of them. This sends mixed messages to your alcoholic son.

#7. Be Patient and Acknowledge the Wins

It takes time to see significant changes when you deal with an alcoholic son. Oftentimes, you might overlook the small steps they take because you want them to overcome their disorder entirely. But, it’s important to be patient and to acknowledge the wins—even the daily victories.

And, remember that alcoholism is a chronic condition. This means that a relapse is more likely than not. However, a relapse doesn’t mean that your son cannot recover from addiction. They shouldn’t give up because of any setbacks—and neither should you.

Help Your Alcoholic Son Find Treatment Today

Creekside Recovery Residences offers sober living programs for those who need a safe and secure place to continue their recovery after inpatient treatment. We also connect our residents to outpatient programs and other helpful resources that put your son on the path to long-lasting recovery from alcohol addiction.

Contact us today to learn more.

man experiences post acute withdrawal syndrome

Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome Timeline

by with No Comment Addiction TreatmentLong-Term RecoveryWithdrawal Symptoms

Entering into recovery from substance abuse is a courageous journey, yet it’s often not without its challenges. While many individuals focus on the initial withdrawal symptoms, there’s another phase that can follow, known as the Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome timeline. At Creekside Recovery Residences, we recognize the importance of understanding PAWS and providing support throughout this phase of recovery. In this article, we delve into what PAWS entails, its common symptoms, a detailed timeline, and effective treatment options.

For more information or to be connected with a treatment program near you, visit our admissions page today. 

What is PAWS?

The Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) timeline refers to a set of symptoms that can occur after the acute withdrawal phase from substance abuse has passed. Unlike acute withdrawal, which typically lasts for a week or two, PAWS can persist for weeks, months, or even years after the cessation of substance use.

PAWS can manifest differently for each individual and may vary depending on factors such as the type of substance abused, duration of use, and individual physiology.

Common Symptoms of PAWS

There are several symptoms that are common among those suffering from post-acute withdrawal. The symptoms you experience will vary depending on the type of substance you used, the duration of use, and the presence of any pre-existing conditions. Fortunately, most related symptoms can be successfully managed with long-term treatment. 

1. Mood Swings

During PAWS, individuals may experience significant fluctuations in mood, ranging from periods of depression, characterized by feelings of sadness and hopelessness, to episodes of anxiety, marked by excessive worry and tension.

Additionally, irritability and agitation may surface, leading to heightened sensitivity to environmental stimuli. Emotional numbness, where individuals feel disconnected from their emotions, can also occur, making it challenging to experience pleasure or engage with others.

2. Fatigue

Persistent feelings of exhaustion and low energy levels are common symptoms of PAWS. Despite adequate rest, individuals may struggle to regain their energy and may find even simple tasks to be overwhelming. This fatigue can impact daily functioning and diminish motivation, hindering progress in recovery efforts.

3. Insomnia or Hypersomnia

Sleep disturbances are prevalent during PAWS, with individuals experiencing either difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep (insomnia) or excessive sleeping (hypersomnia). Disrupted sleep patterns can exacerbate other symptoms such as fatigue and mood disturbances, further complicating the recovery process.

4. Cognitive Impairment

PAWS can impair cognitive function, leading to difficulty concentrating, memory problems, and impaired decision-making abilities. Individuals may find it challenging to focus on tasks, retain information, or make sound judgments, which can interfere with work, school, or interpersonal relationships.

5. Cravings

Intense urges or cravings for the substance of abuse are a hallmark symptom of PAWS. These cravings can be triggered by various cues, such as stress, social situations, or environmental cues associated with substance use. Managing cravings requires coping strategies and support to prevent relapse and maintain sobriety.

6. Physical Symptoms

PAWS can manifest with various physical symptoms, including headaches, muscle aches, tremors, and gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. These symptoms may arise as the body adjusts to the absence of the substance and can contribute to discomfort and distress during the recovery process.

7. Emotional Dysregulation

Heightened sensitivity to stress, emotional instability, and mood disturbances are common features of PAWS. Individuals may struggle to regulate their emotions effectively, leading to exaggerated responses to minor stressors or difficulty managing intense emotions. Emotional dysregulation can strain relationships and impede progress in recovery.

PAWS Timeline

Understanding the Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome timeline provides individuals in recovery with valuable insights into what to expect throughout the various phases of the post-withdrawal period. By recognizing the evolving nature of PAWS symptoms and implementing effective coping strategies, individuals can navigate through this challenging phase of recovery with resilience and determination toward long-term sobriety and improved quality of life.

Weeks 1-2: Mild PAWS Symptoms Emerge

As individuals progress through the initial phase of acute withdrawal, characterized by intense physical symptoms such as nausea, sweating, and tremors, they may start to experience relief as these symptoms gradually diminish. However, during this time, mild PAWS symptoms may begin to surface.

These early symptoms can include subtle mood swings, lingering fatigue, and occasional cravings for the substance of abuse. While not as intense as acute withdrawal, these symptoms serve as a reminder of the challenges that lie ahead in the recovery journey.

Weeks 3-8: PAWS Symptoms Peak in Severity

During this phase, which typically spans from the third week to the eighth-week post-withdrawal, individuals may encounter the most challenging aspect of PAWS. Symptoms such as mood swings, fatigue, and cravings may peak in severity, causing significant distress and disrupting daily functioning.

Mood swings may become more pronounced, with individuals experiencing periods of intense sadness, anxiety, or irritability. Fatigue can be particularly debilitating, making it difficult to engage in activities and maintain motivation. Cravings for the substance of abuse may intensify, posing a heightened risk of relapse if not managed effectively.

Support and coping strategies are crucial during this time to help individuals navigate through these challenging symptoms.

Months 2-6: Gradual Decrease in Intensity, Intermittent Symptoms Persist

As individuals progress further into recovery, typically spanning from the second month to the sixth-month post-withdrawal, PAWS symptoms gradually decrease in intensity. While individuals may experience relief from the peak severity of symptoms, some symptoms may persist intermittently. Mood swings may become less frequent but can still occur during periods of stress or emotional upheaval.

Fatigue may improve, but individuals may still experience fluctuations in energy levels. Cravings may diminish in intensity but can resurface unexpectedly, requiring ongoing vigilance and coping strategies to prevent relapse.

Months 6-24: Significant Improvement with Residual Symptoms

Many individuals experience significant improvement in PAWS symptoms beyond the sixth-month post-withdrawal, typically extending up to two years or more. During this phase, individuals may notice a substantial reduction in the frequency and intensity of symptoms, allowing for greater stability and functionality in daily life.

However, it’s essential to acknowledge that some residual symptoms may linger, albeit to a lesser extent. While individuals may have made considerable progress in their recovery journey, occasional mood swings, mild fatigue, or fleeting cravings may still arise. Continued support, sober living, and adherence to healthy coping strategies remain crucial during this phase to maintain long-term sobriety and well-being.

Treatment Options for PAWS

  • Therapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based therapies can help individuals cope with PAWS symptoms and develop healthy coping strategies.
  • Medication: Certain medications, such as antidepressants or mood stabilizers, may be prescribed to alleviate mood swings, depression, or anxiety associated with PAWS.
  • Support Groups: Participating in support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA), provides peer support and encouragement during the recovery journey.
  • Lifestyle Changes: Incorporating regular exercise, balanced nutrition, adequate sleep, and stress-reduction techniques can support overall well-being and aid in PAWS recovery.
  • Holistic Therapies: Practices like yoga, meditation, acupuncture, and massage therapy may help alleviate PAWS symptoms and promote relaxation.

Contact Us to Learn More About PAWS Management

Navigating the Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome timeline can be a challenging aspect of the recovery process, but it is a temporary phase that can be managed with the right support and strategies. At Creekside, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive support to individuals overcoming substance abuse, including guidance through the PAWS phase. By understanding the symptoms, timeline, and treatment options for PAWS, individuals can embark on a journey toward long-term sobriety and improved quality of life.

If you or a loved one are experiencing PAWS symptoms and need support on your recovery journey, reach out to Creekside Recovery Residences today. Our experienced team is here to provide compassionate care and personalized treatment to help you achieve lasting sobriety. Take the first step towards a brighter future by contacting us now.

sober living residents socialize and have fun

Does Insurance Cover Sober Living?

by with No Comment Addiction TreatmentHealth Insurance

Navigating the road to recovery from addiction is a journey that demands resilience, support, and adequate resources. Sober living homes play a pivotal role in providing a supportive environment for individuals looking to maintain their sobriety after or during their primary treatment. As you consider transitioning into a sober living arrangement, understanding the financial aspect, including insurance coverage, becomes paramount.

Creekside Recovery Residences is here to guide you through this crucial part of your recovery process. If you or a loved one are looking for sober living, call us now at 470-460-6688

What is Sober Living?

Sober living homes are structured living environments for individuals recovering from addiction. These residences operate as a bridge between an inpatient facility and the real world. They offer a drug-free, stable environment where residents can solidify the coping strategies they learned during rehabilitation. By emphasizing community and accountability, sober living homes help individuals transition smoothly into society while maintaining sobriety.

How Do I Know If Sober Living is Right For Me?

Determining whether sober living is the right choice for you involves reflecting on your journey and current needs in recovery. Sober living might be a beneficial next step if you’re seeking a supportive community that values sobriety, accountability, and personal growth. It’s ideal for individuals transitioning from a rehabilitation center who aren’t yet ready to face the full pressures of returning home or to their usual environment. 

If you find yourself needing a structured environment that bridges the gap between intensive treatment and complete independence, or if maintaining sobriety in your current living situation poses significant challenges, sober living can offer the stability and support necessary for your continued recovery. Ultimately, your readiness to embrace a community-focused, substance-free lifestyle while working towards your personal and professional goals can indicate that sober living is a suitable choice for you.

Our Sober Living Locations

Atlanta, Georgia

Roswell, Georgia

St. Petersburg

What to Expect from Sober Living

Sober living environments vary in structure, rules, and support services, but they share common expectations, including:

  • Abstinence: Residents must commit to sobriety. Regular drug and alcohol testing are standard.
  • Responsibility: Individuals are expected to take responsibility for their actions, contribute to the household, and maintain employment or education.
  • Community Support: Participation in group meetings and support sessions is encouraged, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual support.
  • Independence: While offering support, sober living encourages independence, allowing residents to gradually reintegrate into society.

Insurance Coverage for Sober Living

Insurance coverage for sober living homes can be complex and varies significantly by policy and provider. Generally, traditional health insurance plans may not cover the cost of residing in a sober living home directly, as these facilities provide a supportive living environment rather than medical treatment. However, some aspects of your stay, like outpatient therapy and medical appointments, could be covered under your health insurance plan. It’s crucial to review your insurance policy or consult with your provider to understand what aspects of sober living your insurance might cover.

Alternative Payment Options

Understanding the limitations of insurance coverage for sober living homes, it’s essential to explore alternative payment options:

  • Private Pay: Many residents cover the cost of sober living through personal savings or financial help from family and friends.
  • Scholarships and Grants: Some sober living homes offer scholarships or have grant programs available to help cover costs for those who qualify.
  • State and Local Government Programs: Research programs in your area that offer financial assistance for sober living or recovery housing.
  • Sliding Scale Fees: Some facilities adjust costs based on an individual’s ability to pay, ensuring that sober living is accessible to those in need.

How Much Does Sober Living Cost?

The cost of sober living varies widely depending on location, amenities, and the level of support provided. Monthly fees can range from $500 to $2,000 or more, with higher-end facilities offering additional services like counseling, job placement assistance, outpatient rehab and more luxurious living conditions. Some sober living homes include the cost of utilities, food, and transportation in their fees, while others may charge separately for these expenses. 

It’s important for individuals considering sober living to closely examine what each facility offers and determine whether the cost aligns with their needs and budget. Researching and asking questions about all potential fees and services can help ensure a clear understanding of the financial commitment involved in choosing a sober living environment.

Is Sober Living Ever Free?

While most sober living homes charge a fee to cover expenses and maintain the facility, there are some circumstances where sober living can be accessed for free or at a significantly reduced cost. Non-profit organizations, charitable foundations, and some government-funded programs occasionally offer sober living scholarships or grants to individuals in need. These opportunities are designed to support those who are committed to their recovery but lack the financial resources to afford sober living. 

Availability can be limited and often requires applicants to meet specific criteria or demonstrate financial hardship. For those seeking a free sober living environment, it’s essential to research local resources, recovery support organizations, and state or county health services for potential assistance options.

Contact Us to Find Sober Living Near You

Sober living homes offer a crucial support system for individuals in recovery, providing a structured environment that nurtures sobriety and personal growth. While navigating insurance coverage for sober living can be challenging, understanding your policy and exploring alternative payment options can help make this pivotal step in your recovery journey more accessible.

At Creekside Recovery Residences, we’re committed to supporting you through every stage of your recovery process. Whether you’re exploring sober living options or seeking guidance on financing your stay, our team is here to provide the resources and support you need. Contact us today to learn how we can support your path to sobriety. Your journey to a healthier, sober life is a call away.

outpatient group therapy during rehab

How Long Does Outpatient Rehab Last?

by with No Comment Addiction TreatmentLong-Term RecoveryOutpatient Rehab

Outpatient rehab can last several months depending on what type of program you attend. Most people transition from inpatient rehab into an outpatient rehab program. This helps them maintain their recovery skills as they continue their treatment program.

In addition, sober living programs provide an additional level of accountability for those in outpatient rehab. Creekside Recovery Residences offers sober living programs for those in outpatient rehab.

What Are the Different Types of Outpatient Rehab Programs?

Different types of outpatient rehab programs vary in levels of care. Simply put, this means that some programs are more intensive than others. It is best to step down from each higher level of care to the next as you gradually build the skills needed for long-term recovery.

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

Most people go from residential treatment to a partial hospitalization program (PHP). Furthermore, the programming in PHP is similar to residential treatment. As a result, you get a mix of individual and group sessions along with experiential therapy and psychoeducational classes on mental health, life skills, and addiction.

However, unlike residential treatment, you don’t live in a facility during your PHP program. But, you still get about six to eight hours of programming per day, five days per week. After that, you can move on to an intensive outpatient program.

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

Intensive outpatient programs (IOP) continue your treatment with a less restrictive schedule compared to PHP. You still get a significant amount of treatment and support, however, you can attend an IOP program while resuming everyday responsibilities. For instance, many IOP programs occur during the evening, allowing you to work full-time during the day.

Most IOP programs last three to four hours per session, four to five days per week. Some rehab programs offer IOP during both the daytime hours and evening so that you can choose which time is best for you. After IOP, you can continue with regular outpatient programs.

Outpatient Program (OP)

Following PHP and IOP programs, you can continue with a regular outpatient program. This is the most flexible type of rehab program because you get to choose what is right for you. This could be meeting with a therapist weekly, bi-monthly, or monthly. You can also participate in group or family therapy sessions on a similar schedule.

Most sessions during regular OP will last about an hour. In addition, there are now several virtual options for outpatient rehab. Virtual outpatient rehab provides greater accessibility and flexibility to those in recovery from addiction.

How Long Do Outpatient Rehab Programs Last?

Different types of outpatient rehab programs last different amounts of time. Furthermore, you need to consider the total length of time as you progress from one type of program to the next. Therefore, outpatient rehab programs typically last at least 60 to 90 days from PHP to regular outpatient programs.

Lastly, you might be in regular outpatient therapy for several months or even years. That is because outpatient therapy is a tool to help you navigate everyday life as you build your recovery skills.

In addition, outpatient therapy helps to treat common underlying causes of addiction which is often a co-occurring mental health disorder. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA), “More than one in four adults living with serious mental health problems also has a substance use problem.”

What’s the Difference Between Inpatient and Outpatient Rehab?

The primary difference between inpatient and outpatient rehab is where you live during treatment. Throughout inpatient rehab, also called residential treatment, you live within the treatment facility. That way, you can stay safe from any relapse triggers during early recovery.

On the other hand, during outpatient rehab, you can live at home, with family, or in a sober living program. This allows you to resume some of your everyday responsibilities while in treatment. For additional support, you can consider a sober living program throughout outpatient rehab.

How Do Sober Living Programs Differ From Residential Treatment?

The key difference between sober living programs and residential treatment is that during sober living, you have more freedom to leave the home. But, during residential treatment programs, you won’t be able to leave the facility throughout your program. Of course, some exceptions may apply, like medical or psychiatric appointments, for instance.

However, this doesn’t mean that during sober living, you can come and go as you please. For example, while you can go to an outpatient program, work, or school, you might need to return to the sober living home right away. In addition, you will likely have a curfew and randomized drug testing as well as required programming within the home.

Which Type of Rehab Program is Right for Me?

Overall, you need to consider where you are in your recovery to determine which type of rehab program is right for you. The whole process, from inpatient to outpatient rehab, can last a long time, and it’s best to go in succession from higher to lower levels of care.

Additionally, many treatment programs require that you step down from one level of care to the next. Depending on the severity of your addiction and your treatment history, you might be able to start at a lower level of care. However, most treatment providers like to know that you have made progress before you advance.

Regardless of which type of outpatient rehab program you are in, you can choose a sober living program for additional support and structure.

Begin Outpatient Rehab and Sober Living Today

Creekside Recovery Residences provides sober living programs for those in outpatient rehab. You can remain in sober living no matter how long your outpatient rehab will last. In addition, some people continue sober living after active treatment as they get back on their feet in recovery from addiction.

Contact us to begin sober living and outpatient rehab today.