Ah, the end of the day. After waking up, getting ready, fighting traffic and grinding out a long day, we finally have some time to ourselves. While most of us look forward to getting off work, it can be very trying for those in early recovery from addiction. Rehab after work can be the answer.

What is Rehab After Work?

Rehab after work is typically an intensive outpatient program that occurs during the evening hours. Daytime options are usually also available for those who work nights.

Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) are third step in the addiction recovery process, after detoxification/residential and partial hospitalization. This stage of treatment is designed for those who have progressed far enough in their recovery to be able to take on employment and other responsibilities, yet still need additional support.

As with any outpatient level of care, rehab after work involves your living offsite – either at your home or a sober living facility. However, the intensive part refers to the up to 19 hours you spend in treatment.

Intensive outpatient can start right after detox and continue up to 120 days or more after last use. It all depends on your individual situation.

What Happens at Rehab After Work?

If you are attending rehab after work at a new-to-you facility, a thorough assessment will be made first.

Once admitted to the program, you’ll participate in group and individual addiction therapy, just as you would with a full-time addiction treatment program.

Group therapy involves the support of your peers in sessions guided by a qualified addiction professional. In individual therapy, an addiction counselor will help you discover the roots of your addiction and diagnose any underlying mental condition, using a variety of evidence-based treatments to treat you.

As you progress, you may be recommended for a fully outpatient program of one to three hours a week.

Are there Telehealth Options for Rehab After Work?

Yes, there are online rehab after work programs. You and your therapist can talk online or via phone for individual sessions. Groups may be fully online or have a mix of participants who attend in-person and via phone or computer.

But does it work?

According to studies with data culled before the pandemic, telehealth is equally effective as in-person therapy for adults with substance abuse disorder.

It also works just as well for those with anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder – all of which are common co-occurring diagnoses for those struggling with addiction.

In particular, both groups saw improvement in:

• Symptoms
• Satisfaction
• Quality of life

As well, clinicians observed that a similar level of treatment and medication adherence among the two groups.

Not only that, but patients also found telehealth to be more convenient and easier to access than in-person treatment.

(Lazur et al., 2020)

Why Do Rehab After Work?

Rehab after work can help you on several levels.

First, it helps guard against triggers. The end of the day is likely to be a time when you used or headed to the bar or home for a drink. It is also a time when resolve may be at its lowest because you are alone and tired from the day. Yet, while other people are enjoying themselves with alcohol or indulging in other substances, this is when you must be at your strongest. Rehab after work can distract you while helping you grow in your recovery at the same time.

Second, you will have the support of others who are familiar with your struggle. You can build relationships with wonderful people who are rooting for you. You can also learn what works for others in avoiding relapse and overcoming challenges. Recovery is a team sport.

Finally, it’s no secret that addiction requires whole-life change. The more treatment you receive, the better equipped you will be to handle all that life brings your way.

Put Your Recovery First

The main goal of early recovery is to strengthen your ability to stay sober and clean. Thankfully, rehab after work will help you to keep your resolve and avoid relapse.

To do this, you may choose many things to help, such as 12-step meetings, alumni meetings at an addiction treatment center, online support groups and rehab after work.

This is a battle that millions of people from every corner of the globe fight daily. There’s no reason to walk alone or feel isolated. Look for a qualified addiction treatment center and make that call today.

Sources

Lazur, B., Sobolik, L., & King, V. (2020, October 15). Telebehavioral Health: An effective alternative … – milbank. Milbank.org. Retrieved November 28, 2021, from Milbank.org