Working While in Treatment: How Outpatient Rehab Helps
This article was written and published by RCA.
Making the decision to seek help for addiction is a brave and life-changing choice. However, for many people, the commitment involved in entering inpatient rehab for an extended period can be a barrier to seeking treatment. The fear of losing their job or falling behind in school can prevent people from getting the help they need.
Outpatient rehab facilities offer an alternative for those who need to balance their recovery with work or school responsibilities. Work or school can be stabilizing forces in recovery, providing structure and a sense of purpose. Treatment can also provide the support needed to navigate these responsibilities while focusing on recovery.
Recovery Centers of America offers outpatient treatment programs that are designed to meet the needs of patients who are working or attending school while in treatment. Call 1-800-RECOVERY today to get started.
How Outpatient Rehab Supports Working or Studying
A major benefit of outpatient rehab is the flexibility it provides for patients who have work or school commitments. Inpatient programs, while an important step in the recovery process, can involve taking a leave of absence from work or school. Outpatient rehab, on the other hand, allows patients to continue fulfilling their responsibilities while receiving support for their recovery.
Of course, balancing work or school with outpatient treatment can be challenging. The support of an experienced treatment team can make a difference as patients navigate things like:
- Time management – Juggling work or school responsibilities with treatment sessions requires careful planning and time management skills.
- Triggers in the workplace – Work or school environments may be associated with stress or other triggers that can contribute to relapse.
- Worries about privacy – While it’s important to seek support from loved ones, you may not be ready to disclose your addiction and treatment to everyone in your workplace or school.
- Prioritizing self-care – In addition to fulfilling responsibilities, it’s important for patients in outpatient treatment to prioritize self-care and attend therapy sessions regularly.
Working or going to school during addiction recovery can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. Outpatient rehab provides support and tools to help you manage these challenges while staying on track with your recovery.
Finding the Right Balance in Treatment
When looking into your options for outpatient treatment, it’s important to choose a program that fits your specific needs and circumstances. Some factors to consider when finding the right balance between work or school and recovery include:
- The treatment schedule – Outpatient programs vary in terms of the number of sessions and hours per week. Consider what will work best for your schedule. The professionals at your program may recommend a more intensive schedule of treatment than what you were originally considering. Be open minded when making this decision.
- Location – Choosing a program that is conveniently located can make it easier to balance your responsibilities while attending treatment sessions.
- Support from employer or school – It may be helpful to have open communication with your employer or school about your treatment and any necessary accommodations.
Ultimately, the right balance will look different for every individual. Our team at Recovery Centers of America works closely with patients to create personalized treatment plans that fit their unique needs and goals, and if those goals include maintaining work or school commitments, we’re here to help.