Outpatient vs. Inpatient Rehab. Which One is Best for You?

One of the biggest steps forward to recovery from drugs or alcohol is choosing to go to rehab. There are various types of treatments for drug and alcohol abuse, including therapy, counseling, and detox that fit into outpatient or inpatient rehab. Depending on what your needs are and the severity of your addiction, one may be better than the other for you. While one type of rehab is not better or more effective than the other, the setting and the situation of the individual are what matters. You can click here to learn more.

Outpatient Rehab

Outpatient rehab consists of daily treatment, including group sessions, therapy, or counseling that takes place at a facility or clinic. People who choose to undergo outpatient treatment may continue to stay at home as they continue to recover. This enables them to take care of their children or other family members, remain at their jobs, and stay on track in school. Outpatient care is cheaper than inpatient rehab. Additionally, the level of support is not as intensive as in inpatient rehab.

Many of the programs that are involved in outpatient rehab include group or individual counseling. They also implement a step-down approach. This means that sessions will become less frequent and less intensive as the individual continues to grow during their treatment. These are programs all designed to help patients recover from their drug or alcohol dependence and be able to maintain their recovery in the future.

There are many benefits to outpatient rehab treatment that makes it suitable for most people:

  • You have the ability to remain in your own home while receiving treatment.
  • The cost of treatment is substantially lower compared to inpatient rehab.
  • There are various types of counseling and therapy offered within this setting. You can choose the intensity level that works best for you.
  • Appointments can be made on the weekends or evenings to accommodate your schedule.
  • Some outpatient programs can even treat patients with co-occurring issues including eating disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, or PTSD.

Inpatient Rehab

Inpatient rehab centers are also known as residential rehab since all individuals live in the facility. This form of rehab can be quite effective for many people that have extreme issues with drugs or alcohol. This is also beneficial for those who have other mental health issues. Living at a rehab center helps individuals avoid the influences and temptations that may appear in their daily life that can trigger substance use. It helps your recovery when you are living in a healthy environment.

Inpatient rehab offers many benefits including:

  • Both short-term and long-term inpatient programs were created to help individuals with the detox process and to prepare them for life following treatment.
  • These facilities provide around-the-clock care that is typically in nonhospital settings.
  • Treatment is highly structured and focuses on various aspects of addiction, including lifestyle and relationships, and various psychological factors that are related to your own personal situation.
  • Medical attention and safe housing are available 24 hours a day. This is beneficial for patients that have more severe issues that can be made more difficult by other mental health conditions.

Inpatient rehab requires individuals to separate themselves from their daily life. This means that you may have to find care for your children or family members. You will probably have to leave your job or school while you are in an inpatient facility. Since treatment is highly structured, your schedule will be created for you by the staff. It may be difficult for some people to transition to a strict agenda, but this is what makes inpatient care so effective.