Can I Check Myself Out of Rehab?

Prefer to listen? Play the audio version below:

Substance use disorder (SUD) impacts millions of people in the United States. Drug and alcohol abuse and addiction can affect every part of your physical and emotional well-being. It can damage your health, harm your relationships, and put your safety at risk.

Addiction rehab programs can help people identify and treat the roots of their addiction. People receive the medical care, education, and mental health support they need to move forward.

However, despite how effective rehab programs can be, many people wonder if it is possible to check out of rehab early. People may have many reasons for wanting to leave treatment. But is it possible?

This article will explore if it is possible to leave rehab when you choose. You will learn:

• If it is possible to leave rehab early
• The possible risks of leaving rehab early
• The benefits of completing an addiction treatment program
• Where to find comprehensive addiction treatment and recovery support programs

If you or someone you love struggle with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the intake team at Moving Mountains Recovery to learn about our holistic rehab center or to schedule an intake appointment.

Can You Check Yourself Out of Rehab?

There are many levels of addiction treatment, including inpatient and outpatient rehab programs. All levels of care provide structure, support, and treatment that can help people work toward long-term recovery.

Inpatient treatment centers offer intensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment. People live in the rehab facility while following an individualized treatment plan that includes:

• Medications and medical care
• Behavioral therapies
• Individual counseling
• Support groups
• Education and counseling for family members
• Holistic therapies, including nature therapy, nutrition support, mindfulness, and more
• Aftercare planning

People receive critical support that allows them to manage withdrawal symptoms and develop the skills to prevent relapse. People get help that benefits their physical and mental health as they work to put addiction in the past.

However, some people may want to leave treatment early. There are many reasons people may want to leave rehab against medical advice (AMA). These include:

• Struggling with intense withdrawal symptoms
• Believing that they only need treatment during detox
• Thinking they no longer need treatment
• Being in denial about the severity of their substance abuse

So, can people choose to leave rehab early?

In short, yes. People can choose to leave rehab whenever they choose. In most cases, people are not legally required to attend treatment. While family and friends may encourage them to stay in treatment, people are generally free to leave rehab whenever they choose.

What Can Happen if You Check Out of Rehab Early?

There are several possible consequences of leaving rehab early. Here is an overview of some complications that can arise when people check out of rehab AMA.

Untreated withdrawal symptoms

Uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms are common as people withdraw from drugs or alcohol. Symptoms depend on the substances a person abused but may include:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Blood pressure changes
• Insomnia
• Mood swings
• Body and bone pain
• Stomach cramping
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Chills
• Headache

People may find withdrawal very uncomfortable and want to leave treatment. However, treatment programs provide essential supervision, treatment, and support that can help people manage their symptoms effectively.

Lack of support

Detoxing from drugs or alcohol can be very challenging. Withdrawal symptoms, mental health challenges, and other issues can test a person’s mind and body. People may find this very challenging and choose to leave rehab early.

Relapse and overdose

Relapse and overdose are among the most dangerous potential risks of leaving rehab AMA. People who use drugs or drink after a period of sobriety (even a short one) are at higher risk of a life-threatening overdose.

While it is possible to check out of rehab early, most medical and mental health professionals advise against it. The risk of relapse or complex withdrawal symptoms is too high. It is critical to finish a rehab program, even if it becomes challenging.

Benefits of Completing a Rehab Program

There are many benefits of completing an addiction treatment program. In addition to avoiding the risks of leaving rehab AMA, completing treatment can:

• Give people practical coping skills to reduce the risk of relapse for life
• Provide critical supervision and support that reduces the risk of relapse during detox
• Ensure family members and friends get the support and education they need to help their addicted loved one
• Allow people to explore the roots of the substance abuse, leading to better outcomes in recovery

While it can be challenging to stay on track in recovery, finishing a rehab program ensures people have the time, supervision, structure, and support they need to be successful.

Find Treatment Now

If you or someone you love struggles with withdrawal symptoms, increased substance abuse, or new mental health symptoms, you are not alone. Find the treatment and recovery support you need at Moving Mountains Recovery.

Contact our intake team to learn about our holistic rehab programs or to schedule an intake appointment.