If an individual is receiving outpatient detoxification they must go to the facility assisting them through detoxification daily or at minimum five days a week in most cases. Outpatient detoxification services are either done in the evening or daytime, which makes it perfect for a person who must maintain a regular school or work schedule. Some programs may also provide ways to participate in treatment in either normal outpatient or outpatient day treatment, to improve detox services and help prevent a relapse.
An average amount of time clients remain in outpatient detox is approximately 7 days. A number of facilities use medication assisted detoxification approaches while others offer drug free detoxification services. There are times when meds are necessary to avert life-threatening withdrawal problems, as is the case with alcohol and benzodiazepine medications where seizures are at times an issue. Alternatively, staff at the facility help clients handle their emotional, psychological, and physical symptoms of withdrawal and cravings until they are safely detoxed and balanced.
While outpatient detox in Meno is more flexible for obvious reasons, a very severe disadvantage is that people are at a greater chance of relapse due to the access they keep to drugs and alcohol. Ideally, clients will transition into a comprehensive treatment facility to address the causes of their addiction once outpatient or inpatient detox is finished.