Inpatient vs Outpatient Rehab: A Look At The Pros And Cons
When it comes to addiction recovery, both inpatient and outpatient treatments can offer life-saving support to those detoxing from substances. Though the end goal of maintainable sobriety is the same, each treatment is unique and tailored to the differing needs of recovering addicts.
When selecting a rehabilitation facility, conduct ample research and stick to a reputable drug treatment program like those at Clean Recovery Centers. Read on for a comprehensive look at the pros and cons of both inpatient and outpatient rehab facilities.
What is inpatient treatment?
Inpatient treatment requires participants to stay at a residential facility for an extended period, providing addicts with 24/7 access to medical resources and therapy. Because residential programs offer a controlled environment with supervision from trained therapists and medical professionals, addicts can detox safely.
The length of the stay will vary on the severity of the patient’s addiction and mental health prognosis lasting anywhere from 30 days to 12 months.
The pros
Residential treatment centers offer a slew of benefits for addicts needing professional support and round-the-clock care.
24/7 care and support
Living in residential rehab is helpful for those needing specialized, in-person care and support on their path to recovery. Having unlimited access to professionals trained in rehabilitation can act as a turning point for addicts, with many finding deep, rewarding relationships the key to success.
Structure and routine
Most substance abusers lack the ability to stick to a routine and structure, both of which are critical for continued sobriety. Thankfully, inpatient facilities implement schedules for patients, allowing them to regain a sense of control in their life.
Supportive community
Another benefit of inpatient rehab facilities is the community aspect. Recovering addicts often find comfort and motivation knowing they aren’t alone in their addiction. Living within a community that understands and supports one another can help patients encourage and lift each through the more painful rehabilitation steps.
Uninterrupted focus on getting better
Patients in residential treatment often have a better chance of success because there are no outside distractions to trigger or derail progress. Without the worry or stress of daily life, recovering addicts can pour all their focus and energy into achieving a more balanced, healthier lifestyle drug-free.
The cons
Alongside the benefits, there are potential cons with inpatient treatment.
Limited access to family members
Once a patient begins treatment in-house, they are typically not allowed to leave unless they are on a pass granted by the staff. So, access to family support is limited and often challenging for patients with children and spouses.
Difficulty adjusting
Since inpatient programs remove the temptation to avoid relapse, adjusting to the real world can be jarring and pose a threat to sobriety. That said, many rehab facilities offer follow-up care to ensure the transition back into everyday life is as smooth as possible.
More expensive
The most common deterrent when looking at inpatient treatment is the cost. Unfortunately, many facilities are expensive, creating a barrier for addicts low on funds. However, there are payment plans and funding options for those without financial means.
What is the outpatient treatment?
For recovering addicts looking for a more flexible, less intensive rehabilitation option, outpatient care may be a perfect solution. Patients treating addiction through at-home programs follow a detox plan outlined by professionals and attend treatment sessions throughout the week instead of living on-site.
The pros
Outpatient care has many positive factors, particularly for people with milder addictions or unavoidable home-life obligations.
More affordable
Outpatient care is a much more affordable option than an inpatient facility since patients stay at home during the rehabilitation process. Plus, most insurance providers cover the cost of outpatient care.
Provides flexibility
For addicts unable to drop everything and move into a residential facility, outpatient treatment can provide a safe, supportive environment with added flexibility. Those in outpatient recovery can still lead a relatively normal life with the addition of consistent meetings and check-ins.
Access to family members
For patients close to their families, having access to a support system at home can significantly improve an addict’s chances of recovery. Outpatient treatment allows patients to grow and heal alongside family—both blood and chosen—instead of cutting off consistent contact.
The cons
Like inpatient treatment, some potentially unfavorable aspects come with choosing outpatient treatment.
More temptation, more distraction
Since recovery takes place at home, addicts are more likely to come face-to-face with temptations and distractions that could potentially halt the rehabilitative process.
Less community
Choosing outpatient treatment means you may not have access to others going through the same things as you. Those without a solid family support system often find it challenging to stay on the path to recovery.
Less assistance with a detox
Substance detox can be a painful, intense experience with difficult-to-manage symptoms. Without the help of medical professionals, it can be challenging and potentially dangerous to move through the first phases of detox.
The bottom line
Ultimately, choosing a rehab program will depend on the addict’s unique circumstances and needs. However, for most people seeking recovery, inpatient facilities can offer a broader set of resources to move the detox and rehabilitative process along. Just make sure to consider both options honestly and be ready to commit to long-term sobriety, regardless of the path you take.
