Substance Use Disorder, or SUD, is a prominent disease throughout the United States. Intensive Outpatient Programs, or IOPs, have become necessary mental health services, providing a place of respite for people to get clean from their addictions. Learn more below about SUD IOPs and why they are vital for stopping addictive cycles and preventing people from relapsing. 

What Is Substance Use Disorder (SUD)?

SUD has been established by the National Institute of Mental Health as a mental disorder. This disorder affects a person's way of thinking, causing them to fall into cycles of over-using drugs and alcohol throughout their lives. SUD can be triggered by a person's upbringing, environment, genetics, or other mental disorders. Luckily, this condition can be controlled through careful, personalized treatment of an individual.

How Can Outpatient Services Help People With Substance Abuse?

IOPs are one of the most popular methods of treating people with SUDs. These outpatient programs require regular attendance at counseling and mental health service sessions, group therapy, and educational lessons for six to 12 months. Many people start by attending their IOP every day, eventually working their way down to only three days per week. The combination of treatment helps people understand what triggers their SUD and how they can escape their cycles of addiction. 

These programs are usually recommended for people with mild to moderate diagnoses since they don't require medically supervised detoxing. They are also helpful for individuals who have left inpatient treatments but still require some oversight to complete their road to recovery.

If you're looking for mental health services to help you or a loved one overcome SUDs, Central Iowa Psychological Services provides services to residents throughout West Des Moines, IA. They provide many resources, including community sites, telehealth services, education services, and therapy and counseling sessions. Visit their website to learn more about their IOP, or call (515) 233-1122 to schedule an appointment.