Drug abuse and addiction treatments fall into two categories which are inpatient and outpatient programs. Although these programs equally focus on rehab, they have unique features and benefits. It’s important for people to know the elements of inpatient vs. outpatient treatment before they enroll. Having this knowledge can help them choose the program that will give them the best chance for long-term recovery.
Inpatient vs. Outpatient Treatment
The first thing to know about inpatient vs. outpatient treatment is that it’s an intense program. Also called residential treatment, this type of program requires the patients to live at the rehab facility. They spend the majority of their days participating in some form of treatment, usually therapy. However, they do get free time to relax and unwind from the intense sessions.
The second thing to understand is that outpatient treatment can still be intense and very successful. For the program duration, patients continue living at home and visit the rehab center for therapy and treatment-related activities. The number of days in a week that they attend therapy depends on their individual circumstances. The schedule gives them the flexibility to keep up with school, work and family obligations while they get sober.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Inpatient Programs
The main benefit of inpatient programs is that they remove people from addictive environments and drug triggers. This approach allows them to focus all of their efforts on getting sober and learning how to remain abstinent. They receive 24/7 medical monitoring and professional support throughout the entire process. In addition, getting support from their peers shows them that they aren’t alone and can lean on others for help.
However, they have to leave their school and work obligations behind. Leaving family is also hard for many people with drug problems because family is their source of support. Furthermore, the cost of inpatient treatment is typically higher because patients have to pay for room and board.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Outpatient Programs
The major benefit of outpatient programs is the flexibility they provide. In addition, they allow people to continue getting support from helpful family members and friends. This approach also gives them the opportunity to practice the techniques they learn to prevent relapse.
However, some people need the 24-hour care that inpatient treatment provides. Outpatient programs aren’t the best idea for people with a high risk for relapse or other complications. Their home life also needs to be clean, supportive and stable for treatment to be successful.
Get Help Choosing the Right Treatment Program
After weighing the pros and cons of inpatient vs. outpatient treatment, you can make an informed choice between the two. However, Steps to Recovery can give you a recommendation to make the decision easier. Along with standard outpatient rehab, our team offers several addiction services, including:
- Intensive outpatient treatment
- Partial hospitalization
- Interventions
- Sober living
Don’t let drug abuse and addiction ruin your life. Learn how to overcome your drug problems with our help. Call Steps to Recovery at 866-488-8684 now to learn more about our outpatient services.
