Inpatient vs. Outpatient Rehab: Exploring the Differences in These Treatment Programs

Whether you receive treatment in a rehab facility or choose to seek therapy as an outpatient is dependent on what you need in terms of care. If you need medical intervention to withdraw from drugs or feel that you’ll relapse if you recover at home, inpatient rehab is a better option.

On the other hand, some patients like recovering in their homes. In these cases, they feel more comfortable having the support of friends and their immediate family. They want to organize their time personally.

Making a Choice for Inpatient or Outpatient Drug Rehab

People who opt for outpatient drug rehab also want to spend less on care. They’d instead save money on the therapy. In addition, they like that they can schedule therapy sessions as part of their daily routine.

In some cases, outpatient clients choose to live in a sober living residence. However, in these cases, the patient usually has been through detox in an inpatient rehab facility. Living in a sober living residence permits you to go to work while benefiting from recovery services.

Inpatient Services: Safer Option for Some Patients

Compared to outpatient services, inpatient therapy is more intense, and a safer option for people whose drug addiction or drinking is out of control. By entering an inpatient facility, a patient can escape for a while from their regular obligations and focus entirely on recovery.

This type of program allows the patient to avoid relapse while receiving care from medical professionals 24/7. The well-run inpatient treatment center staff are trained and experienced in this level of care. They know how to manage challenging situations and learn how to respond to developments that may interfere with a patient’s therapy.

Unlike some people believe, an inpatient recovery center is often a pleasant living experience – not in the least bit clinical. Patients often live in apartments or homes that seem more resort-like than sterile. Some facilities offer amenities such as furnished rooms, flat-screen televisions, or even pools.

Anyone considering the differences between inpatient and outpatient therapy needs to decide which will support their recovery needs the best. Remember – you’re not allowed to check out of an inpatient rehab center during your stay.

As a result, you’ll participate in more programs, some of which feature exercise programs, such as pilates, nutritional counseling, or group therapy. You’ll also meet with an addiction counselor one-on-one each day.

While your care as an outpatient will not be as expansive, you still will receive a level of care that will make you more cognizant of your addiction and its triggers. In either case, your choice for recovery will be based on the degree of your drug or alcohol use, your age, current health, and your living situation.

Explore Your Treatment Options Now

Whether you choose to be an inpatient or outpatient, you’re taking a step in the right direction. Learn more about your treatment options today to start taking advantage of the therapy tomorrow. Place your health needs first and commit to receiving drug rehab treatment.