When deciding to put drug and alcohol use behind you, there’s a process. It starts with a detox program if you abuse alcohol and some kinds of drugs. After detox, though, you must choose between inpatient vs outpatient programs. While both kinds of programs can work, there are some big differences.
Inpatient
On the inpatient side of inpatient vs outpatient, treatment typically takes place in a residential facility. The person stays in the facility for the duration of their treatment. While there, they participate in a range of therapies, such as:
Inpatient rehab is essentially a full-time job until program completion. Most programs run from around one month to three months.
Outpatient
On the outpatient side of inpatient vs outpatient, you don’t live in a facility during treatment. Instead, you’re able to live in your own home and attend scheduled meetings or individual counseling sessions. Depending on your precise circumstances, you might continue going to work or school.
Since outpatient rehab offers far more access to drugs or alcohol, blood tests are quite common. You might also meet privately with a doctor to receive medications for mental health or managing withdrawal symptoms. Outpatient programs often offer a more selective range of treatments due to space limitations.
Inpatient vs Outpatient
Both inpatient and outpatient approaches offer benefits and drawbacks.
Inpatient treatments limit the external stressors and access to drugs and alcohol. Clients receive intensive treatment, access to support staff, and medical monitoring.
On the downside, inpatient programs cost more directly and indirectly. The program itself comes with a higher price tag. You also can’t work during the program, so that costs you as well.
In addition, you’ll have less access to your outside support network. Family and friends receive very limited opportunities to visit during your stay.
A benefit of outpatient programs is the lower cost paired with the potential to keep working. You also see your support network on a regular basis, which is beneficial.
The drawbacks of outpatient programs are serious. You can’t leave your stressors behind. Avoiding drugs and alcohol is difficult. Both of those factors increase the odds that you’ll relapse.
You’re also farther away from medical care if your withdrawal symptoms become life-threatening.
Making the Choice
When making the choice, you should give strong preference to the recommendation of your doctor or a mental health expert. They’re in the best position to understand your needs and circumstances. Beyond that, you must consider your own personal and financial circumstances.
Denver Recovery offers outpatient, intensive outpatient, and partial hospitalization programs in the Denver, CO area. Don’t leave drugs or alcohol in the driver’s seat of your life. You can take back control with help from a rehab program like those at Denver Recovery. Give us a call at (844) 602-3175 to see if we’re the right choice for you.
