Inpatient vs Outpatient Rehab: What’s the Difference?

In the US, 11.7% of Americans over 12 have used illicit drugs in the past month. While some are able to use them occasionally, others struggle with addiction.

If you’re in the latter group, you might find it difficult to lead a happy and healthy life. But addiction doesn’t have to take over your life permanently. You can seek help by checking into rehab, whether that’s with inpatient or outpatient treatment.

So when it comes to inpatient vs outpatient rehab, what’s the difference? Find out below.

Inpatient Treatment

When you go to inpatient drug rehab, you’re in treatment 24/7. This means you eat and sleep at the facility for the entire duration of treatment.

Before you begin actual treatment, you might have to first go through medical detox. You’ll have a team of medical professionals monitor your withdrawal symptoms and prescribe medications if they feel it’s necessary. That way, you can detox in a safe and comfortable way.

Once you’re done, you’ll get into individual therapy. Here, you’ll address the triggers that drive you to use substances, such as trauma in your past. Not only will you work through these issues, but you’ll also learn how to deal with triggers in a healthy way so your chances of relapse are lower once you go back to real life.

In inpatient rehab, you’ll also go to group therapy. It can create a nice support network during and after treatment.

Many treatment facilities also offer alternative therapies, like art therapy music therapy, meditation, and yoga. This helps you heal your body on a holistic level.

Outpatient Treatment

Inpatient treatment might sound great, but it’s not doable for everyone. The fact that you have to attend 24/7 means it’s very disruptive to your life. You’d have to take time off of work and school, and if you have a family, you’ll also have to arrange for childcare.

Inpatient treatment is also very expensive because you need to pay for food, accommodations, and round-the-clock service. So if you have a tight budget, outpatient treatment is a good alternative.

You’ll receive all the same services as in inpatient treatment, but on a part-time basis. You’ll make appointments with the therapists and medical professionals and come when necessary.

This allows you to get help with your addiction while still attending to important things in your life. However, the chances of relapse are a lot higher since you’re not always in a positive healing environment.

Inpatient vs Outpatient Rehab: Choose the Right One for You

As you can see, inpatient vs outpatient rehab both have their own pros and cons. While inpatient treatment is generally more effective, it’s not feasible for everyone. In that case, outpatient rehab can still be a solid choice, as you’re still receiving help for your addiction.

So take the first step in sobriety by checking into rehab. It’ll be just the thing you need to turn things around.

If you want to seek help for substance abuse, check out the rest of our blog for more advice.