There is no “one size fits all” approach when it comes to treating addiction. Addiction is complex, and every client has their own unique needs and concerns that must be addressed if they have a chance to get better. Two of the most common approaches to overcoming addiction are inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation programs. Although they both approach treatment in a similar manner, there are some important caveats to discuss when deciding what type of programme will work best for you or your loved one.
Inpatient Rehab Programs Provide Medically Supervised Detox
If your loved one has been heavily using drugs or alcohol for a long time, then they may require medically supervised detox. When an addict stops using, they may go through physical withdrawal, which can be dangerous or even deadly. Some users experience tremors, seizures, irregular heart rate, and other physical effects as the drugs leave their system. This process requires safe medical detox so your loved one can be monitored by health professionals who can intervene if prompt medical attention is needed.
Inpatient Rehab Provides Structure and Social Support
Many clients who enter inpatient rehabilitation have struggled with their addiction for a long time. They have likely dealt with many stressors in their life stemming from their addiction, such as job loss, homelessness, and the loss of social support. Because of this, they are in need of connection, structure, and a safe environment to develop the skills they need to stay clean once they complete the program. Inpatient rehabilitation programs offer a safe environment for your loved ones to stay in as they get sober. They also offer structure and programming schedules for their residents to follow, which include group therapy, individual counseling, medication management, life-skill activities, and personal time. This type of programming is beneficial for those who may not have the support they need to stay sober and can also be the first step toward transitioning to a halfway house upon completing the program.
Inpatient Rehab is Beneficial for Clients Dealing With Mental Illness
Many people with addiction also deal with significant mental illness. These individuals are considered “dual diagnosis” clients, as they must successfully manage both their addiction and their underlying mental health issues. Many addicts also suffer from depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Sometimes their persistent drug or alcohol abuse can actually manifest into drug-induced psychosis, which may be difficult to distinguish from other mental illnesses. These clients benefit from close medical supervision as their medical team works towards identifying an accurate diagnosis and creating a treatment plan that successfully manages both issues at the same time.
Outpatient Rehab Allows Flexibility
For clients who might not have a severe drug or alcohol addiction but still want to get clean and sober, an outpatient rehabilitation program might be a good option. Outpatient rehabilitation provides clients with a wide variety of therapeutic services and can be modified to fit their particular needs. Outpatient therapy is also beneficial for those who are working and cannot afford to take time off from their jobs. These programs allow clients to schedule therapy sessions after work or even on the weekends. They can attend group therapy sessions and enjoy many of the same benefits that a client at an inpatient treatment facility would receive.
Additional Considerations When Deciding Between Inpatient and Outpatient Treatment
The cost of inpatient treatment is often significantly higher than outpatient treatment, and not all insurance companies will cover it. Additionally, inpatient treatment is much more challenging, especially for those who are not used to the rigorous structure and consequences of not following the facility’s rules. However, inpatient treatment is a good option for those who would benefit from twenty-four-hour support, seven days a week. Clients are never left alone to struggle with overcoming their addiction when they attend inpatient addiction treatment.
Whether you or your loved one is struggling with addiction, there is hope for recovery. By doing your research and familiarizing yourself with the potential pros and cons of both options, you’ll find the right health treatment facility to help you or your loved one get sober and enjoy a better quality of life.
