Many people battle with alcohol and substance abuse addiction each day. According to the latest figures, almost 21 million people in the U.S. have at least one addiction, yet 90% do not receive treatment for their condition.
If you, or someone you know, is struggling with addiction the path to recovery can be challenging. However, it can be comforting to know there are various treatment programs available today that can help individuals regain sobriety. These programs are generally categorized into two groups of inpatient and outpatient care, with each offering its own attributes and advantages.
To help demystify your rehabilitation options this article will explain the main differences between inpatient and outpatient rehab, to help you determine the right type of setting for your recovery.
Inpatient Treatment
According to addictioncenter.com Inpatient rehab, also known as a residential treatment center is a type of rehab program where people live for a period of time, and receive the tools and treatment they need before returning to their daily lives.
While living here, patients will be in a safe and supportive environment where they will receive round-the-clock care from trained professionals. Without the distractions and temptations of daily life, these facilities offer individuals the opportunity to focus entirely on their long-lasting sobriety making it ideal for those with severe alcohol or substance abuse problems.
Rather than being sterile, hospital-like environments, many inpatient treatment centers offer patients a comfortable, fully-furnished setting that feels like home. While the length of duration will depend on the patient, inpatient treatment programs typically range from 30 to 90 days.
Inpatient Treatment Considerations
The following factors can help you assess the suitability of inpatient treatment for you or a loved one:
- Intensity of care ─ Contact with the outside world is limited during inpatient treatment programs, with some restricting access to electronic devices such as smartphones and laptops. With a structured daily routine often consisting of group counseling and therapy sessions, individuals have the chance to fully focus on their recovery journey. Due to the high intensity of care, this form of treatment is recommended for people with severe addiction problems as they will need to undergo a period of drug and alcohol detox or withdrawal which can be dangerous without the correct supervision and medical care.
- Commitment level ─ Inpatient treatment requires a higher level of commitment from the person undergoing treatment. Not only will they be separated from the outside world, their loved ones, and their daily lives for a lengthy period of time for which they may have to make separate arrangements such as childcare and time off work, but they must also agree to actively engage with their recovery process. During their stay, treatment will be scheduled in a very structured way which some people may find difficult to adapt to. The transition back into the world after such rigid treatment can also make it difficult for some people to maintain their progress.
- Cost ─The cost of inpatient rehab is generally higher than outpatient routes to recovery due to the 24-hour supervision, accommodation, meals, and the extensive array of therapeutic services and medical attention that are offered. While the expense may deter many people from choosing inpatient care, in the long term, the cost of their addiction can greatly outweigh this form of treatment in terms of the physical, mental, financial, and social consequences.
Outpatient Treatment
Outpatient treatment offers individuals a path to recovery without having to leave their homes or their families making it a more flexible and family-friendly option. As a result, individuals can also continue with their daily responsibilities such as going to work and looking after their children, making it a suitable option for those with less severe addiction problems or those who have completed a more intensive treatment program like inpatient rehab. Outpatient treatment programs typically fall into two categories of care which include standard and intensive outpatient programs:
- Standard outpatient programs ─ These programs offer the lowest level of care. Individuals will typically attend therapy sessions, counseling, and group meetings a few times a week, allowing them to continue with their daily lives while receiving treatment.
- Intensive outpatient program (IOP) ─ These programs provide a higher level of care and structure than standard outpatient programs. Participants will typically attend therapy and counseling sessions several times a week, often for several hours per session. They may also include services such as medication management, drug testing, and family therapy. IOPs are suitable for individuals with more severe addiction issues or those who need more intensive support but still want to live at home and maintain some level of normalcy in their daily routines.
Outpatient treatment can be beneficial for individuals with mild to moderate addiction issues and is also helpful as part of a long-term recovery program. Typically, outpatient rehab programs last between three to six months and may even continue beyond a year in more serious cases. In addition, staying up-to-date with the latest UK rehab news can provide a better understanding of the multiple available rehabilitation possibilities.
Outpatient Treatment Considerations
The following factors can help you assess the suitability of outpatient treatment for you or a loved one:
- At-home recovery ─ Outpatient treatment offers the advantage of receiving treatment and support while being surrounded by a support system of friends and family. There is no need to adjust to unfamiliar surroundings or adapt your eating and sleeping arrangements according to a schedule. While this route offers greater flexibility, the lack of 24-hour support and supervision makes it more challenging to handle triggers and avoid the temptation to use them.
- Accommodating schedules ─ Outpatient programs are designed to fit around a person’s life. With counseling and therapy sessions available at weekends and evenings, individuals can choose a time that suits them. However, without being in a structured and supervised setting, there is a greater risk of failing to show up to appointments with the regularity required for lasting progress.
Each person will have their own set of needs and challenges on their road to recovery, making their choice of treatment program a very personal and individualized one. Both inpatient and outpatient programs can equip individuals who are struggling with addiction with the care that they need to ensure long-lasting sobriety. By reviewing the information outlined in this article, you can determine the best treatment option for you or your loved one.
