When it works, outpatient drug treatment is the ideal solution, but too often outpatient drug treatment is encouraged due to the relative expense of inpatient treatment. Public drug rehabilitation programs will generally consist of mostly drug treatment on an outpatient basis, with limited access to inpatient beds.
While remaining within the family and able to work has its advantages; the continuing presence of temptation in the environment of abuse presents a significant obstacle to initial sobriety. Many people find that without getting away from access to drugs and alcohol, they are unable to remain away from abuse during the initial craving filled weeks.
Additionally, the more intensive and committed the participation in recovery, the greater the ultimate likelihood of sobriety. Inevitably, when addicts undergo treatment within their home environment, their attentions are focused partially elsewhere, and they are unable to give as focused an effort at recovery.
Although the minimal disruption and low cost of outpatient drug treatment can be very attractive, and may work for some people with a short history of abuse or minor dependencies, most addicts will ultimately require a more intensive period of rehabilitation, as is offered at an inpatient facility.
page last update Aug 05, 2010
