What are the main differences between inpatient and outpatient rehab?

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Rehab is an important step for anyone struggling with addiction. It’s the best option to treat the issue and ensure you enter recovery in the best possible shape to reduce the risk of relapse.

Through rehab you pick up all the skills, coping mechanisms and routines to manage your condition effectively and when it comes to choosing the right rehab for you, there are a few options. Typically, that begins with deciding between inpatient and outpatient rehab. The first is a residential rehab, where patients live within the centre, while outpatient you tend to live at home and either have visits or go to a centre for treatment.

Finding the right option for you is key, so here’s all you need to know about the main differences between inpatient and outpatient rehab…

Inpatient Rehab

This type of rehab involves staying full-time at a facility and has a really structured and immersive environment, where round the clock care is available and you can fully focus on your treatment and recovery.

Key Features of Inpatient Rehab

24/7 Care and Supervision

One of the key benefits of residential rehab is that you have round the clock medical and psychological support. That can be very important for those going through the detox process, and those with severe addictions who could face intense withdrawal symptoms or complications.

Highly Structured Environment

One of the most important aspects of recovery is having a structured routine. Inpatient rehab gets you started with that. Treatment in rehab is carefully planned and each day is structured with therapy sessions, group activities and recreational time. This can promote healthy habits and help reduce the likelihood of relapse.

Focus on Intensive Therapy

Inpatient programmes often include a combination of individual counselling, group therapy, and holistic treatments such as art therapy, yoga, or meditation. These therapies are designed to address both the physical and emotional aspects of recovery.

Isolation from Triggers

By staying in a controlled environment, patients are removed from the stresses and temptations of their daily lives, such as access to substances or enabling relationships.

Duration

Programmes typically last between 28 and 90 days, depending on the severity of the condition and the individual’s needs.

Outpatient Rehab

Outpatient rehab sees patients living at home, or outside of the centre, while still being able to attend treatment sessions at certain times. It is a more flexible option and usually suited to those with milder conditions or those that have strong support systems already in place.

Key Features of Outpatient Rehab

Flexible Scheduling

One of the main reasons people choose outpatient treatment is to be flexible. It allows people to still commit to their responsibilities, such as work, school or family responsibilities.

Variety of Programmes

There are different levels of care within outpatient programmes. Some are intense, some offer partial hospitalisation programmes, while there are much less hands-on programmes too. It’s all about understanding what you need in terms of intensity and the amount of time you are able to commit.

Access to Community Support

People can still be connected within their own communities and use their already developed support networks, such as family and friends, relying on these much more than you would in inpatient.

Cost-Effective

Outpatient rehab is typically less expensive than inpatient care, making it a viable option for those with budget constraints.

Duration

The length of outpatient programmes can vary widely, from a few weeks to several months, depending on individual progress and goals.

Key Differences Between Inpatient and Outpatient Rehab

Level of Care

It’s perhaps no surprise that inpatient rehab has a much higher level of care due to the patient residing there. Whereas with outpatient care, you’re reliant upon the scheduled visits and appointments you have in place.

Environment

Inpatient rehab isolates patients from their usual environments, while outpatient rehab integrates treatment into their daily lives.

Cost

Inpatient care is generally more expensive due to the comprehensive services and accommodations provided.

Flexibility

Outpatient programmes offer more flexibility, allowing patients to balance treatment with other responsibilities.

Suitability

Inpatient rehab is often recommended for severe conditions or when a controlled environment is crucial. Outpatient rehab is more suitable for those with milder issues or robust support networks.

Choosing the Right Option

Naturally, it’s all about weighing up the differences between the two and finding the right option for you. There are various factors you’ll need to take into account, from the severity of your condition to your own personal responsibilities. Then there are the financial factors, which often lead many people’s decisions.

Both inpatient and outpatient rehab can be incredibly effective. It’s all dependent on circumstances. The best option is to consult with a healthcare professional, whether it be your GP or a therapist working in the space to get a firm grasp on what is the best, and most appropriate, treatment for you.

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About the Author: Thurman Hunter