For someone struggling with substance use disorder, participating in a rehab program is perhaps the most crucial step toward recovery. It takes courage and a lot of strength to acknowledge that you have a problem and find solutions for it. However, people often find it difficult to decide which kind of rehab they should attend to treat their condition.

Primarily, rehab for substance use disorders can be done while staying in a facility or while living at home. Let’s see which is right for you: inpatient or outpatient rehab. Each option has its own set of benefits and challenges, depending on your specific needs and circumstances. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision about your treatment path.

What Is Inpatient Rehab?

Inpatient treatment programs require an individual to live at the rehabilitation facility for the duration of treatment. It usually lasts for a few weeks to a few months, depending on the severity of the addition and co-occurring mental health disorders.

For most patients, inpatient treatment begins with a medically-managed detox. This process allows the body to get rid of the substance and takes place under the supervision of a medical professional. Once the detox is over, the comprehensive treatment program begins.

In an inpatient rehab program, you get the following services:

• Family Counseling

• Group therapy

• Individual behavioral therapy

• Medical detox

• Medication management

• Mental health evaluation and treatment

• Mutual health support groups

• Psychoeducation

• Recovery support

It is important to note that all these intensive treatment options may not be required for every patient entering rehab. In fact, inpatient rehab facilities are best for those who need care and support 24/7.

Major Highlights of Inpatient Rehab

• It keeps you away from potential temptations and triggers.

• You get treatment for any mental health condition that might co-occur with addiction.

• It offers around-the-clock medical and mental health support during detoxification.

• It comes with a high level of accountability.

What Is Outpatient Rehab?

Outpatient treatment programs allow individuals to live in their homes or sober living settings, where they take part in therapies and counseling sessions. These sessions look similar to inpatient rehab programs, but they allow individuals to maintain their work, school, or other responsibilities during the rehabilitation.

Individuals can have different levels of outpatient care and services based on their rehabilitation needs. For example, intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) offer 9-19 hours of structured treatment and therapy sessions each week at the facility, while partial hospitalization programs (PHPs) offer 20 hours or more every week. Traditional outpatient programs typically offer less than 9 hours a week.

Major Highlights of Outpatient Rehab

• You are able to work and perform other responsibilities while receiving the treatment.

• It allows you to keep a flexible schedule.

• It is less likely that you will have to travel outside your locality to receive treatment.

• This is usually a more affordable option.

• You can receive the treatment online.

Which Type of Rehab Is Ideal for You?

While both inpatient and outpatient rehab programs provide you with the necessary treatment and care for substance use disorders, one might be more effective for you based on certain factors.

Inpatient Rehab

An inpatient rehab program is a great option for you if you are:

• Experiencing co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders

• Suffering from health conditions that need round-the-clock nursing care

• At the risk of experiencing withdrawal symptoms from substances like benzodiazepines and alcohol

• Unable to receive the treatment in the home environment

Outpatient Rehab

You will find an outpatient rehab program to be more suitable for you if you are

• Suffering from a less severe substance use disorder

• Blessed with a strong support system and a home environment outside of treatment

• Not in need of intensive medical or psychological care

• Already done with a more intensive inpatient or residential program

If you are finding it hard to choose between the two, you can consult with a therapist or medical professional. They can help you choose the one that suits your needs better.

Conclusion

Choosing the right program can help you recover from substance use disorders or other mental health issues in a more effective manner. As you may have already noticed, both inpatient and outpatient rehab programs offer a significant number of pros and cons. The right rehab program for you is the one that suits your situation, budget, insurance, and severity of the condition.