How to get help through a virtual intensive outpatient program
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It’s becoming clear that the time spent in lockdown and the continuing need for social distancing and missing out on events is impacting people’s mental health. With the delta variant still a concern, and the rapid rise of omicron, it’s clear we aren’t out of the woods when it comes to this pandemic. Along with how it’s impacting our mental health, studies are underway to see its role in addiction. It’s easy to see how it’s affecting those struggling with addiction recovery before the pandemic started. The lack of ability to go to meetings or spend time with the support system they’d built has presented the perfect storm for relapse. However, there is also a rise in new addiction cases, and sadly an increase in overdoses. Thankfully as we progress and learn to live with the seemingly unending pandemic, professionals are coming up with solutions that work, like virtual intensive out-patient programs.
Taking the First Step
The first step in recovery is to be self-aware of the problem and admit that you need help. During the first stage of covid-19, there were limited resources for those who were ready to get started on their journey to sobriety. However, as we move into our second year, those in the recovery have made it their mission to continue helping those in need.
Now you don’t have to struggle through your addiction alone. Thanks to the available technology and the professionals willing to go the extra mile, you’ll be able to start your treatment right from your own home.
A virtual intensive out-patient program can be as effective as a traditional one. These programs are run by the same highly educated and qualified professionals who run a standard out-patient program. The only real difference is the entirety of the treatment can be done online.
What is involved in Virtual Out-Patient Programs?
Out-patient programs are a proven methodology for addiction treatment. They’ve been used as part of a treatment plan for many recovering addicts for years. Some people benefit from going through an intensive inpatient program first. Still, the out-patient program is enough to help them stay sober for others.
These programs are built from tried and tested methods that have been shown to help people recover from addiction. The only real difference between a traditional out-patient program and the new virtual ones is that you don’t have to actually be there in person.
These programs all offer the same benefits as their in-person counterparts. From educational resources to group therapy, you still get all the proven methods you would if you were physically attending your sessions.
For example, your program will be built with you in mind. All programs are individualized to offer you the best chance of success possible. You’ll talk with one of the trained professionals who will put together your individualized treatment plan considering your mental health, type of addiction, and other factors.
What to Expect During a Virtual Intensive Out-Patient Program
Intensive is a crucial component here. Your days will be filled with working towards your recovery and getting your life back on track, from meetings with others to learning how to re-establish routines and care for yourself.
Once your treatment plan is in place, you’ll begin to attend online sessions. This includes things like group therapy through Zoom meetings.
It’s been proven that a peer support system is critical in maintaining sobriety. Group sessions allow you to talk to others going through issues like your own and learn from their experiences. You’ll also have the opportunity to help people in the group by sharing what you’ve been through. Groups often offer ideas and tips that will help, like unique coping mechanisms that you may not have come up with yourself. Peer sessions can be a meaningful change regardless of the type of addiction.
You’ll also meet one-on-one with a counselor just like you would in a standard out-patient program. Individual sessions will help you get to the root of the problems driving your addiction. Often those with addiction have co-morbid mental health problems that will surface during these sessions.
Benefits of Virtual Sessions vs. In-Person
Over the last two years, almost no one has escaped the shift to the virtual world. Workers around the globe have been able to continue doing their jobs from the comfort of their home offices, and there are some serious advantages to this newly connected community. Being able to stay out of large groups and away from close interactions is one of the primary ways to stay safe from the worsening pandemic. Now, because virtual addiction treatment is an option, you can still get the help you need.
These virtual programs can be a life-saver for those with tight work schedules. Virtual programs allow you to chime into your sessions from almost anywhere, your home, office, or even on your phone. This means that you don’t necessarily have to take time off to participate in a recovery program. Instead, you can still reap all the benefits while keeping up with your job.
Telehealth has come a long way and is considered perfectly safe and secure. The programs comply with privacy and security needs, so you don’t need to worry about your information getting out to the wrong people. Recovery is hard enough without having more to stress about.
Who is Best Suited to Intensive Virtual Out-Patient Programs?
This type of therapy and treatment isn’t for everyone. Some people struggle with the independent nature of the program. However, it does work well for others.
For example, if you’ve successfully finished an inpatient program and are looking for more support than just attending periodic meetings can provide this can be an excellent choice.
It also works well for those who thrive with things that are self-driven. Though you will have appointments and meetings scheduled, it will be entirely up to you to make sure that you attend.
The first step is to reach out and talk to one of the trained professionals available to help you understand which program or treatment is right for you.
