Inpatient and outpatient rehabs are programs each of which has a specific concept and is dedicated for specific cases. So, it is important to understand the differences between these types in order to better recognize their meaning and implementation in society. Both of them come with unique advantages and serve different needs depending on the level of addiction severity the person has, the circumstances, and their support systems.
Starting from the Inpatient rehab
Inpatient rehabilitation is when the individual stays at a treatment facility full-time, to get treatment. This serves as an environmental change and is dedicated to also helping the person mentally, to get away from the potential toxic environment that has resulted in developing a substance abuse disorder. Inpatient rehabilitation typically has periods and lasts for 28 days to a few months, typically depending on the patient’s condition. During this rehabilitation technique, the program starts with a detoxification which is assisted with medications for safer management of arising withdrawals. These are also known as medical supervision for effective treatment and progress.
The structure of inpatient rehabilitation
Inpatient rehabilitation is a source of 24/7 support, in other words, it’s a round-the-clock treatment and supervision during which the individual has constant access to field professionals and support staff in the treatment settings. This is especially required for individuals with more severe cases of substance abuse that might as well include co-occurring disorders. The 24/7 access also allows for a medically assisted detoxification of the individual’s system, which is typically one of the first procedures when they are admitted to the rehab clinic. It is required for safer withdrawal from previously used substances as it helps to manage the arising symptoms during the process and reduce the risk of medical complications during the overall treatment.
Another identifying structure component is the comprehensive treatment that comes with inpatient rehabilitation. The program includes individual therapy, group sessions, family therapy, recreational activities, and attendance to support groups such as 12-step programs. These are a part of the mental health treatment of the individual and help to not only communicate with their family but also widen their environment and become a part of new and healthy activities.
The benefits
Aside from the above-mentioned benefits, the inpatient rehab provides intensive care with a higher level of professional intervention. This is especially helpful for people with more difficult cases. It’s a safe environment, where the individual is substance-free with no potential triggers of relapsing. In some ways, it’s an isolation for the individual to stay away from external pressures that lead to substance use. The rehabilitation process also gives individuals a sense of accountability, which is developed through various cognitive activities.
Outpatient rehab
During outpatient rehab, the individual still receives rehab without actually staying 24/7 at the rehab center. It provides a more flexible schedule and is helpful for those people, who have work or family commitments. The outpatient programs may vary widely based on intensity and duration, and last from a few weeks to several months.
The differences between outpatient rehab types include standard outpatient programs with a few hours of therapy or counseling per week, intensive outpatient programs that offer some higher care options with longer therapy sessions throughout the week, and partial hospitalization programs, which are typically considered as the most intense outpatient option.
How to choose the right rehab option
The choice is based on several factors, including the addiction severity, personal responsibilities of the individual, as well as support systems. For example, if the individual is struggling with severe substance abuse disorder, then they might consider an inpatient rehab option for a deeper treatment approach and round-the-clock assistance. Personal responsibilities are also to be taken into account, as they are often more suitable for people who can’t spend all their time in the rehab center due to work and family obligations. Lastly, outpatient rehab relies on a strong support system which will be effective while the individual is dealing with their daily responsibilities. The lack of this will eventually raise the need for inpatient care.
These are the main indicators when deciding on which type of rehab program to choose. Each of those has its advantages, and even disadvantages, so, the individual should make choices only based on personal condition and requirements.
Rehabilitation is an important and responsible step each individual can take during the lower times of their life. It is a specifically designed program that suits many individuals with different needs and treatment requirements to help them get rid of destructive habits and start anew. So, even choosing between inpatient and outpatient rehab options will have its lasting outcome on the individual in the bigger picture, this is why, to make an ideal choice, the individual can contact or visit the rehab center to get a closer look at the place, explore the active programs and choose which one meets their needs and even the commitment level.