Inpatient vs outpatient rehab… What does each type of program mean? And how does it affect your recovery journey?
Deciding to quit drugs or alcohol is the first step toward recovery and a life free from drugs and alcohol. However, recovery is a process that usually requires the support of alcohol and drug rehab programs. While there are several types of substance use treatment programs, such as therapy, detox, and counseling, all of these programs fall into one (or two) of these categories: inpatient and outpatient rehab.
The severity of your addiction will help determine the best rehab for you. Both inpatient and outpatient rehab can help stop or minimize the chances of taking drugs or alcohol after your initial recovery. Both programs have the same goal; the only difference is the setting and what suits your situation.
Now, what does each treatment program offer? Let’s find out, shall we?
What Is Inpatient Rehab?
Inpatient rehab or residential rehab can be effective for individuals with severe alcohol or drug problems and those dealing with specific mental health conditions. Staying at the rehab program facility will help prevent temptations that trigger your substance use.
The benefits of an inpatient program are important when weighing inpatient vs. outpatient programs. The advantages of attending an inpatient rehab program are:
- 24-hour care both medically and psychologically
- Routine days and a less-disruptive treatment process
- No outside influence from people associated with the addictive substance
- Has a higher success rate
- Is effective in treating serious addictions and handling potentially fatal detoxifications
- Duration of this type of program varies; can be anywhere between 28 days and 6 months
Although its benefits far outweigh its shortcomings, inpatient rehab programs have some disadvantages:
- It is disruptive to the client’s daily activities (i.e., working full time, taking care of children)
- The insulated environment in inpatient rehab programs doesn’t necessarily adequately prepare clients for reintegration into society
What Is Outpatient Rehab?
Outpatient treatment, including PHP, IOP, or standard OP, allows clients to live at home while seeking addiction treatment. During this time, recovering addicts can commute to their preferred local treatment facility near their homes. The benefits of outpatient rehab include:
- Cheaper than an inpatient program
- Clients commute to the treatment center from their homes
- Clients can keep up with daily activities and maintain employment
- The duration of this program varies; 3 months to a year
- Clients learn how to cope while integrated into society
- This treatment program is better suited to mild addictions
The disadvantages of outpatient programs are;
- Clients are still exposed to triggering situations and the influence of other addict friends
- Clients are distracted by their day-to-day activities
Inpatient vs. Outpatient Rehab
This is the big question. Knowing what these two programs have to offer and which of them is the best choice for you. No program is better or more effective than the other. As we mentioned above, both programs have the same goal in mind: setting you up for sobriety.
However, picking the right rehab program can be challenging. Below are some tips to help you choose what type of addiction treatment program would work best for you.
Ask yourself the following questions:
- How severe is your detoxification process?
- Do you need more focus and no distractions?
- What is your budget? Do you have health insurance?
- Would your daily activities survive an extended period of absence?
- What does my physician suggest?
The answers to these questions would help you pick the perfect treatment program.
Enlight treatment Center is one of the leading addiction treatment centers located in Ventura County. We offer a wide range of treatment options to accommodate our client’s individual needs. Whether you are starting your recovery journey with drug detox, inpatient treatment or outpatient care, our team is here to help you every step of the way. Contact us today at Enlight Treatment Center; let us help you get sober and stay sober.
