Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) allow those in recovery to maintain their work, school and family responsibilities while attending therapy, group sessions and engaging in other recovery activities several times throughout the week. Many people find these programs to be incredibly effective because they provide quality resources and support that would typically be found in a residential treatment center – while also offering flexibility so people can carry out their obligations. A crucial requirement of IOPs, however, is self-motivation. If you’re about to start an IOP, or if you’re contemplating it, it’s time to think about your own level of self-motivation and what you can do to set yourself up for the best chances of success possible.
Since a person attending an IOP will be returning to their work, home and school environments, it’s vital that they have the tools they need to successfully practice what they’ve learned in recovery to the “outside world”. Healthy Place, a website that provides information and insight on various conditions, explains that those in recovery must determine what their motivations are for remaining sober and attending treatment. There are many motivations one could find; here are a few examples:
- The desire to improve one’s life
- Restoring health
- Achieving life goals
- Making friends and family proud, being there for them, etc.
- Living authentically
- Creating a better life for one’s children
- And more
Mike, a person who has found much self-motivation in his own recovery, shared his story via the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) website. He explained that as he started liking himself again, he found it easier to remain in the program – and as he went on to graduate from his program and help others, he became “hungry” for recovery. He stated,
“Not a day passes that I don’t remember the ugly past and find gratitude that God helped save me. Not a day passes that I don’t look in the mirror and say, ‘Mike, you are a miracle and you will RUN TO RECOVERY!’”
What is motivating you in recovery? Whether you’re currently enrolled in an IOP or you’re about to be, really think about what is propelling you in your journey – and hold onto it.
Cumberland Heights’ Intensive Outpatient Program in Sumner County Tennessee is designed for people whose needs and schedules vary. A quality intensive outpatient drug and alcohol rehab program will be designed to treat the whole person, not just the addiction. Take the first step by contacting us at 615-356-2700. Recovery is possible, and Hendersonville Treatment can help.
