What is the Difference Between Inpatient and Outpatient Drug Rehab?

Most alcohol and drug treatment programs belong to one of two types of treatment: inpatient rehab or outpatient rehab. Although the goal of both rehab rehabs is long-term recovery, the specifics, benefits, and drawbacks of the programs differ. As such, one program may be better suited to your needs than the other. 

It’s important to understand the difference between inpatient and outpatient rehab. By understanding the differences between these rehab options, you can select a treatment program that is right for you and your needs.

Inpatient vs Outpatient Rehab

At the heart of both options, inpatient rehab and outpatient rehab are the same. They focus on your recovery to help you achieve long-lasting sobriety. Although the end goal is the same, some specifics about the rehabs differ. Here is a look at inpatient vs outpatient drug rehab:

Inpatient Rehab 

Inpatient rehab is considered the most comprehensive form of addiction treatment. It involves staying at a clinic for an extended amount of time 24/7. This around-the-clock approach to treatment provides you with constant access to medical help and emotional support.

Inpatient rehab is most often selected whenever individuals are first beginning their sobriety journey. Because inpatient care involves staying at a facility full time, it provides the structure and support you need to begin your journey and create a firm foundation.

Outpatient Rehab 

Outpatient rehab is considered a comprehensive approach to addiction treatment, but you do not stay at a facility full time. Instead, you will be able to leave the facility for different reasons, depending on which treatment you select. 

For example, you might be able to sleep at home but spend your days at the facility, or you might be able to have a part-time job or be a part-time student. At the same time, you will still receive comprehensive treatment to help you achieve long-term sobriety.

Often, outpatient rehab is an option for individuals with mild cases of substance use disorder. It is frequently an option for individuals who have recently finished inpatient rehab and want to slowly transition back to their everyday life.

Inpatient vs Outpatient Drug Rehab: Which One Is Right for Me? 

Deciding whether you should start your treatment with inpatient or outpatient rehab is a serious task. You want to select a program that is right for your needs and addictions. As such, you will want to choose between inpatient versus outpatient drug rehab by looking at your unique case.

Inpatient treatment will likely be best for you if you have never received substance use disorder treatment before or you have a severe case of addiction. The inpatient treatment will provide you with extensive support, structure, and care so that you can get through the first part of your journey.

In contrast, outpatient treatment may be right for you if you do not have a severe case, or you have already undergone detox and the beginning stages of recovery. The outpatient treatment will continue providing you the treatment you need while also allowing you a bit more freedom in your outside life.

Before making any final decisions, make sure to talk to doctors and rehab representatives to get some advice about which treatment opportunity is right for you. Getting medical advice will further clarify the confusion about inpatient vs outpatient drug rehab. 

Begin Your Journey with Elysium Healthcare 

Elysium Healthcare is a top-rated luxury provider of drug and alcohol rehabs. We provide rehab facilities that include both inpatient and outpatient treatment. No matter which treatment option is best for you, we have a rehab that can help. Contact Elysium Healthcare today to learn more about our inpatient and outpatient treatment options.