Substance abuse is becoming more widespread, with about 296 million people worldwide with drug or alcohol addiction, according to the World Health Organization. However, a significant number of diagnosed individuals refuse treatment because of the stigma, fear of withdrawal, and, more importantly, lack of awareness and information about available treatment options.
One of the most critical decisions people about to enter recovery face is choosing between inpatient and outpatient rehab. Most rehab centers typically offer these programs but differ in care intensity, cost, and duration. This article delves into comparing inpatient vs. outpatient rehab, exploring their differences to help you decide rightfully.
Inpatient Vs. Outpatient Rehab: What Are They?
Rehabilitation is critical to overcoming substance use disorder, but there’s no single way to treat it. Inpatient and outpatient rehab are two popular options recommended to patients based on their addiction level and extremity. Understanding their differences is critical to sustainable sobriety. Before delving into their differences, let’s explain what they are:
Inpatient rehab is an addiction treatment that provides focused and individualized care in a strictly monitored healthcare environment. This treatment follows detoxification before talk therapy or counseling. Patients who opt for inpatient rehab begin treatment in a confined border, where temptations and distractions from the outside world are at bay. This helps patients focus on their recovery, leading to sobriety. Because of the defined borders, support is available 24/7.
On the other hand, outpatient rehab allows individuals to receive care in a healthcare setting while maintaining their regular activities. Individuals can attend sessions and meet daily functions, such as work or family responsibilities. This less restrictive treatment provides structured support to help patients recover from addiction. The flexible timing allows the individual to attend to other matters.
Inpatient Vs. Outpatient: The Differences
The differences between inpatient and outpatient are based on the intensity of care, cost, and treatment duration.
Care Intensity
Regarding inpatient treatment, individuals obtain round-the-clock medical care in a well-defined environment. Patients are heavily supervised, which provides a sense of security and a more focused environment for recovery. Patients’ movements are restricted because they remain in the facility until the end of their treatment period.
On the other hand, outpatient rehab allows for more flexibility. Individuals can attend sessions at a particular time while living at home. The level of care isn’t as intense as inpatient rehab, making it ideal for those with a stable home environment.
Cost Factors
Cost is undoubtedly a significant factor when considering treatment options, including inpatient or outpatient. Inpatient rehab typically costs higher due to the focused level of care, accommodation, and meals. With insurance, you can reduce some of the expenses. Outpatient is more cost-effective, but it excludes accommodation and 24/7 care. When considering the transportation costs, outpatient care may not be as cost-effective as expected.
Treatment Duration
The duration of treatment differs for both inpatient and outpatient rehab. In inpatient, treatment lasts between 28 days and 90 days. It could be more in rare cases of extreme substance addiction. Outpatient ranges from a few weeks to months. Know that the length of treatment affects recovery, as those who stay longer maintain long-term sobriety. It doesn’t mean outpatient rehab isn’t practical. It’s not just effective for everyone, mainly those with severe addiction issues.
Inpatient Vs. Outpatient: Deciding Rightfully
Choosing between inpatient and outpatient depends on several factors, such as the intensiveness of the addiction, responsibilities, and individual needs. To make the right decision:
- Assess the level of addiction: Is it mild or severe? Inpatient rehab is best for severe addiction because of its focused care and supervision.
- Consider responsibilities: Personal commitments and responsibilities can influence one’s choice. If the individual is the family’s breadwinner, outpatient rehab will be an understandable choice, given its flexibility. However, they must live in a supportive environment, inaccessible to drugs and alcohol.
- Consider cost: The financial aspect should be addressed. Consider the financial situation if opting for inpatient rehab. Though expensive, insurance coverage may offset some of the costs.
- Seek medical advice: Choosing inpatient rehab because you can afford it or opting for outpatient because of its convenience and flexibility isn’t wise. Instead, consult addiction experts to understand which option caters to your needs.
- Factor in the future: You wouldn’t want to go to rehab again after undergoing treatment. It’s essential to think about your recovery goals. Inpatient can yield more robust results because of its longer treatment duration and focused care.
Southern Sky Recovery Offers Both Inpatient and Outpatient Rehab
Choosing inpatient over outpatient and vice versa is a decision that requires careful consideration. Rushing your decision may hamper recovery. Considering the level of care, duration, and costs is pivotal. And if you cannot decide, you can seek advice from medical experts at Southern Sky Recovery Center.
Our experts will ensure you choose rightfully based on your needs. More importantly, we will ensure your decision aligns with your recovery goals. We offer comprehensive care and treatment to help you fight addiction and thread on the recovery path. Get in touch at 843-891-5693 or visit 60 Pennington Drive, Bluffon, South Carolina.
