IOP treatment can benefit many people who are recovering from substance use or mental health disorders. 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 less frequent treatment is possible, they might benefit from IOP.

In another example, someone might have finished detox for a heroin use disorder. However, they may be unable to take more time off work to attend a partial hospitalization (PHP) program. IOP can be a perfect option for them as it requires only a few hours out of your week. 

Following the completion of an inpatient or PHP program, many individuals find themselves questioning their path forward. They may recognize they no longer need the constant care provided during these programs. However, they still need ongoing support and structure in the next steps of their recovery, which a traditional, once-weekly outpatient program may not be able to provide. 

Likewise, it can also be beneficial for those who have a mental health disorder, such as depression or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). They might be at a point in their lives where constant care is not a necessity, but they would still benefit from regular treatment through IOP.

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

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 outpatient 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 less rigorous program. 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 less care is needed in their recovery.