Is Outpatient Detoxification Right For Me?

Drug and alcohol recovery is tough and takes dedication and commitment. The first step to recovery is knowing you have a problem – but what comes next?

Detoxification is the process of ridding the body of alcohol and drugs, which can take some time. Both inpatient and outpatient detoxification are options, but it's essential to determine which is best for you.

At the Victory Treatment Program in Knoxville, Tennessee, Stacey Maltman, FNP-BC, provides outpatient detox for people dealing with opioid and alcohol addiction. She discusses the pros and cons of each to help you make the best decision for your needs.

What is outpatient detox?

An outpatient detox program is where you receive care for drug or alcohol addiction during the day, but live at home most of the time. It allows you the freedom to do everyday activities at home while having regular appointments for medication and therapy.

The detox process is the first step in overcoming drug and alcohol addiction. It's the point where you take the time to eliminate drugs and alcohol from the body, which often results in withdrawal symptoms.

Most people require help getting through the withdrawal symptoms during detox. These symptoms range from trouble sleeping and nausea or vomiting to severe changes in blood pressure and seizures.

It's tempting to use drugs and alcohol to eliminate withdrawal symptoms, which is where outpatient detox comes in. We provide a safe environment and medications that help you through the worst part of detoxing your body while also providing support.

Good candidates for outpatient detox

Outpatient detox is an excellent option for many people, but it's not for everyone. It requires you to have self-control and a commitment to continually improving. We often recommend outpatient detox for the following people:

You're not at rock bottom

If you know you need help overcoming addiction, but aren't entirely out of options, outpatient therapy is a great option. Recognizing that you have a problem is the first step in recovery, and outpatient therapy is an effective way to address the issue before it escalates into a crisis.

There's plenty of support at home

The key candidate for an outpatient detox program has a lot of support at home. Inpatient facilities offer support 24/7, which is why they are successful.

It's essential to have friends and family who fully support your recovery at home and who can be there for you through the toughest days during detox.

You have kids or a demanding career

It's challenging to commit to an inpatient detox center if you're raising small children or having a demanding career. However, it's still essential to have the support of a specialist to help you overcome addiction.

An outpatient detox center allows you the flexibility at home for your kids or job while providing everything you need to get past withdrawal symptoms and avoid triggers and relapse.

More support after an inpatient stay

If you've already had an inpatient detox stay but feel you still need the support and medications, outpatient detox is the next step. It's a way to continue the recovery process while going back home to learn coping skills and avoid addictive behaviors.

Insurance doesn't cover inpatient treatment

Consider outpatient detox if your insurance company doesn't cover inpatient treatment or you can't afford it alone. Outpatient detox is traditionally cheaper than inpatient treatment, making it an excellent option for many people.

You learn well by practicing new skills

Outpatient therapy requires the ability to immediately put into practice new skills like coping with stress, managing cravings, and avoiding potential triggers. If you learn well with hands-on techniques, outpatient therapy provides the autonomy to start practicing these skills immediately.

Outpatient detox is an excellent option for the right people. It demands consistency and home support as well as a willingness to adhere to our program for optimal success.

Contact the Victory Treatment Program today to discuss our outpatient detoxification services, or visit our website to learn more.