Following the completion of an inpatient or partial hospitalization program (PHP), many individuals find themselves questioning their path forward. They may recognize they no longer need the constant care provided during inpatient and PHP, but they still feel the need for ongoing support and structure in the next steps of their recovery. A traditional once-weekly outpatient program may not be able to provide them with this need. 

IOP treatment can benefit many people who are recovering from a substance use or mental health disorder. For example, someone requiring meth treatment won’t need an inpatient detox program as withdrawal symptoms don’t last long and aren’t usually dangerous. If they are in an environment where they can safely be away from the temptation of the substance, IOP may be a great option for them. 

People who attend IOP following an inpatient or PHP program can continue to grow their long-term support. During IOP, you will continue to form relationships with peers who will understand your emotions and situations. This newfound support system can be something you can lean on throughout your recovery journey. 

It can also be great for individuals who don’t have the schedule to attend regular inpatient treatment. Perhaps your job does not allow you to take time off for an extended period. Or perhaps you have responsibilities that require your constant attention or finances, and attending inpatient or PHP is not an option for your needs. IOP can be a great alternative as it only requires a few hours of your time each week. 

Each person’s journey with mental health or substance use disorders is unique, which means not everyone will require inpatient treatment. While inpatient care offers a foundational sense of stability and security as individuals begin their recovery, it is not always necessary for everyone looking for treatment. However, they may also need support beyond what a traditional once-a-week treatment program can provide. IOP can be the most suitable choice in these cases.

Inpatient care requires individuals to stay at a facility for some time, typically determined during your assessment, and may change depending on your response to treatment. Not everyone can commit to that arrangement due to work or school. For many people, stepping away from their responsibilities can seem impossible, even if it is to prioritize treatment for a mental health or substance use disorder.  IOP offers flexibility for those who wish to balance their treatment alongside their commitments.  With IOP, individuals can engage in their treatment for a few hours daily while maintaining their professional or academic responsibilities. 

A key consideration when deciding if IOP is right for you or your loved one is if they are in a safe environment that can ensure their healing. If maintaining safety is not possible at this point in their lives, inpatient treatment is the best course of action. On the other hand, if your loved one can ensure their safety but still requires additional support, IOP may be an effective option for them to prevent the need for hospitalization.

IOP can also allow people to transition from an inpatient setting to a no-treatment one. Inpatient is a very consistent treatment. You are receiving care 24/7. However, once people leave an inpatient level of care, they might have difficulty adjusting to their life. An IOP treatment can allow individuals to start the process of transitioning to a place where they no longer need care in their recovery.