Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Why Structure is Important: A routine helps keep you focused, organized, and on track during outpatient addiction treatment.
- Types of Outpatient Programs: Learn about IOP (Intensive Outpatient Program) and PHP (Partial Hospitalization Program) and how they support recovery.
- Benefits of a Routine in Recovery: A structured schedule helps prevent relapse, reduces stress, and builds healthy habits.
- Virtue Recovery Center Provides Structured Support: Discover how Virtue Recovery Center uses routine in addiction treatment to guide clients toward lasting recovery.
Introduction
Recovering from addiction is a long process, and having a roadmap can be the key to success in the recovery from addiction. Outpatient addiction treatment is a form of treatment that is characterized by a set schedule and this is one of the things that can help you succeed. While in residential programs, individuals live at the facility compared to outpatient programs, which enables you to live at your home, and having a proper timetable allows you to avoid situations that may lead to relapse. At Virtue Recovery Center, we know that structure is crucial in the process of addiction treatment, and that is why we have included it in our outpatient services, including IOP and PHP.
Why Structure is Important in Outpatient Addiction Rehab
It is crucial for any person who is in the process of recovery from addiction to have a schedule, especially when they are in an outpatient program. Outpatient programs are less restrictive than inpatient ones, and you can live at home and do your daily business. This is a good thing, but it can be dangerous if you do not have a strategy to follow to stay on course.
A routine helps you have a specific structure and purpose in your life. It is always helpful to know what the day has in store for you to avoid getting distracted or putting yourself in harm’s way. It also helps you plan for other essential activities, such as attending therapy, joining a support group, or working on your health.
This is because having a structure also helps to keep one motivated. It can be overwhelming to think about recovery, but having a plan helps you approach it systematically. Little by little, progress is made, and each step taken leads to overall improvement.
What are IOP and PHP in Addiction Treatment?
Outpatient programs offer different levels, and two of the most popular are IOP (Intensive Outpatient Program) and PHP (Partial Hospitalization Program). These two programs enable you to receive treatment while still staying at home, but the intensity of the treatment is not the same.
IOP (Intensive Outpatient Program)
An IOP is a form of treatment that enables you to go for therapy and counseling sessions several times a week while at the same time continuing with your daily activities. This program is suitable for people who require some guidance but do not require constant monitoring, as in the case of the inpatient program. In IOP, you will go for therapy for several hours a day; this way, you will be able to meet your recovery goals while at the same time attending to other activities.
PHP (Partial Hospitalization Program)
A PHP offers a more intense level of care than an IOP. In a PHP, clients attend treatment several hours a day, usually five to seven days a week, but still return home at night. PHP provides more structure and support throughout the day, making it a good option for people who need a higher level of care but do not require residential treatment.
IOP and PHP programs at Virtue Recovery Center focus on helping individuals build routines that support their recovery journey while fitting into their daily lives.
Benefits of a Structured Routine in Addiction Recovery
A daily routine is not just a way to keep yourself in order; it is an essential tool in the process of addiction recovery that gives structure, decreases stress, and promotes long-term sobriety. Here are the main benefits of having a structured routine in outpatient rehab:
1. Helps Avoid Triggers
One of the most significant risks in recovery is encountering situations or people that might trigger a craving for drugs or alcohol. A daily routine helps you avoid these triggers by keeping you busy and focused on positive activities. When you know your day, it’s easier to plan ahead and avoid risky situations.
2. Builds Healthy Habits
A routine is a way of creating and maintaining good practices in your daily life, such as going to therapy, exercising, eating a balanced diet, and sleeping. These habits play a big role in your overall health and help you be more consistent with your recovery process.
3. Provides Accountability
When you have a schedule to follow, it becomes easy to answer for the actions that you have taken. Whether it is going to therapy, achieving a goal, or just being sober for another day, a routine makes you feel that you have achieved something. It also helps to monitor the progress, which is a great encouragement to continue working.
4. Reduces Stress
Uncertainty about the future can be a big source of stress for people in recovery. A structured routine helps take away some of that uncertainty. Knowing what’s coming next can help you feel more in control and less anxious, which is important for staying sober.
How Virtue Recovery Center Supports Structured Outpatient Rehab
At Virtue Recovery Center, we understand how important structure is to your recovery. That’s why we incorporate daily routines into our IOP and PHP programs. We work with each client to create a personalized treatment plan that fits their unique needs and helps them build healthy, lasting habits.
Our outpatient treatment programs allow you to receive care while living at home, but with the added support and accountability that comes from regular therapy sessions, support groups, and wellness activities. Whether you’re in IOP or PHP, we help you create a routine that works for you and keeps you focused on your recovery goals.
Conclusion
Outpatient addiction rehab is very effective, and having a schedule is very important in the process. Whether you are going to IOP or PHP, a routine helps you maintain your focus, manage stress, and achieve lasting recovery. At Virtue Recovery Center, we offer the tools and guidance that are necessary for you to maintain your sobriety.
If you or a loved one is ready to heal, please call Virtue Recovery Center at 866-461-3339. We are here to assist you in creating a plan to achieve sustainable change.
FAQs
What is the difference between IOP and PHP in addiction treatment?
IOP (Intensive Outpatient Program) offers flexible treatment with a few hours of therapy several times a week. PHP (Partial Hospitalization Program) provides more intensive care with daily therapy sessions, but clients still return home each night.
Why is having a routine important in addiction recovery?
A routine gives a sense of order, prevents one from being exposed to triggers, relieves stress, and fosters discipline, all of which are crucial in the recovery process.
How does a structured routine help prevent relapse?
A routine helps to keep you occupied with activities that you enjoy and thus minimizes the chances of coming across triggers or getting into situations that may lead to relapse.
What types of support does Virtue Recovery Center offer in outpatient rehab?
Virtue Recovery Center offers individualized treatment plans that involve therapy, counseling, support groups, and other activities to keep clients on track.
Can outpatient treatment work for long-term recovery?
Yes, with the right support and structure, outpatient treatment programs like IOP and PHP can be highly effective in helping individuals achieve long-term sobriety.
Resources
https://www.samhsa.gov/find-support/learn-about-treatment/types-of-treatment
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/drug-addiction/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20365113
https://www.cdc.gov/overdose-prevention/treatment/index.html
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- About the Author
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Nicki Lugo is currently employed as Clinical Director at Virtue Recovery Center in Las Vegas. Nicki is a licensed clinical professional counselor (CPC) in the state of Nevada and a licensed associate counselor (LAC) in the state of Arizona. She is also a licensed clinical alcohol and drug counselor (LCADC) in Nevada. Additionally, Nicki has specialized training in treating trauma and is a certified clinical trauma specialist (CCTS).
Nicki has earned a Master of Science degree in Psychology with an emphasis in Behavioral Health from the University of Phoenix and a Master of Science in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University. Currently, Nicki is pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Counseling Education and Supervision at Grand Canyon University. Nicki’s research interests include the use of Positive Psychology interventions with dual diagnosis clients. Nicki hopes to contribute to the body of knowledge in treating substance use disorders.
Nicki’s long-term career goals include advancing in leadership roles within Virtue Recovery Center which is a quickly growing substance use disorder treatment facility. She hopes that one day her research and advocacy will help to save the lives of those who have been affected by substance use. She likes to say that advocacy is her passion and leadership is her superpower.
