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Preparing for Intensive Outpatient Programs

man in glasses looking out the window preparing for iop

Starting an intensive outpatient program (IOP) is one of the best things you can do for your health when battling a substance use disorder. But before you go to your first day of treatment, preparing for IOP can help you focus entirely on getting well without having to worry about loose ends or obligations. Intensive outpatient program preparation is simple to do, provided you follow a few key guidelines. If you’re ready to start an intensive outpatient program in Nebraska, call 888.687.8014 to speak to one of the addiction professionals at Northpoint Omaha.

Intensive Outpatient Program Preparation

Everyone has different tasks they need to complete for IOP preparation, but most fall into the same simple categories. Below, we’ve discussed the most important components of IOP preparation to help you get started on the right foot.

Notify Employers, Friends, and Family

The first step to preparing for IOP is to notify your employer, friends, and family. While intensive outpatient programs are inherently flexible, the time commitment is similar to a part-time job. If you need to cut back on your hours at work, reschedule plans with your friends, or shift some familial responsibilities off your shoulders, now is the time to do it.

When notifying people that you’re about to start treatment, give them a clear indication of when you’ll be occupied, how long you’ll be in treatment, and what tasks you need to be covered.

Having these details sorted at the beginning will help you to focus on your time in treatment and not stress about missed deadlines, appointments, or obligations.

Tie Up Loose Ends

If you have projects halfway done or bills about to be due, it might be prudent to tie up those loose ends before starting treatment. Such responsibilities could include:

  • Financial obligations, such as rent or car payments
  • Projects at work
  • Legal obligations, such as talking to a probation officer or lawyer
  • Tasks that need to be delegated to coworkers or family members

Making sure you do not have to worry about upcoming deadlines or ongoing obligations will allow you to fully engage in treatment.

Bring a Journal or Notebook

Bringing a journal or notebook to treatment can help you keep track of the lessons you find important, meaningful, or helpful while attending an intensive outpatient program.

In addition, some of your therapists may want you to try out new skills or techniques when back at home. Having a record of the skills you’re learning can be tremendously beneficial.

Mentally Preparing for IOP

Finally, you can mentally prepare for starting IOP. Before starting your first day, remind yourself to be open to new ideas, commit to being honest about your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and remind yourself of why you signed up for treatment in the first place.

Substance use disorders affect the mind, and while you may have been completely willing on the day you called, it’s not uncommon for people to start having reservations before entering treatment. This is completely normal. It is not a sign that treatment isn’t right for you.

Start IOP at Northpoint Omaha

If you haven’t signed up already, reach out to Northpoint Omaha by calling 888.687.8014 to learn more about our intensive outpatient program and other treatment options. Our team is here to answer any questions you have about IOP preparation and treatment, support you in your recovery, and help you learn the skills and tools needed to build the sober life you want.

We understand how difficult it can be to struggle with addiction—but there is hope. Substance use disorders are highly treatable, and you can recover with the help of the trained addiction professionals at Northpoint Omaha.