Before you exit a residential alcohol addiction center, your caseworker will propose a plan that will help you stay sober, and they may suggest that you enter an outpatient substance abuse program. Although you may think that you have your alcoholism under control, it is very easy to slip back into your previous pattern if temptations become apparent and the urge to drink becomes unbearable.

Transitioning Back to a Normal Routine Can Be Overwhelming

Back when you were drinking regularly, you may have not realized how much responsibility it takes to run a household or keep in good graces with your employer. If you were previously living with a family member or friend, they could have carried you through the tough times.

Now that you are going to be living a sober lifestyle, you probably would prefer to support yourself. Yes, you may need to start off by staying with a loved one, but as time passes and you save money, you can move into your own home. This sounds like a promising future, but what will happen if things don't go according to plan or if you become overwhelmed with the amount of work that you need to complete to regain your independence?

It may seem like the perfect excuse to turn to alcohol if you are experiencing stress. This is why it is so important that you maintain your sobriety through a clinical treatment program. Think of an outpatient center as an extension to the residential center that you initially attended. 

An Outpatient Center Provides Supportive Resources

If the cost associated with your stay in a residential facility has you worried about what you may incur through an outpatient center, you will be relieved to know that the fees won't be as extreme. Comprehensive outpatient services that include counseling, an assessment of your current lifestyle, group therapy, and meetings may be covered by your medical insurance, and if they aren't, you may be eligible to make payments for the services that are rendered.

You can plan your treatment sessions around your personal schedule, and many evening sessions are usually available if you are busy during the daytime hours. Your counselor will ensure that you are following the treatment plan that was prepared during your residential stay.

If there are any obstacles, such as not having transportation or being unable to handle the long shifts that your employer has given you, your counselor will suggest some alternative options that may be helpful to you. 

Any feelings that you have toward relapsing should be introduced so that your counselor can help you break down your emotions and try to figure out what it is that is bothering you and what is a viable way to handle your negative feelings so that you remain sober.