Deciding to positively change your relationship with drugs or alcohol is a crucial first step of recovery. However, addiction recovery is more complex than a simple decision; it’s a process — one that drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs are designed to help you through. However, this treatment option is anything but a one-size-fits-all approach. There are myriad types of substance abuse treatments, including everything from therapy and counseling to detoxification— all of which fall under two main categories: inpatient and outpatient rehab.
Determining which one is right for your needs and the severity of your substance use problem is crucial in developing healthy behaviors and lowering the risk of relapse. Let’s take a look at what each rehab type has to offer.
Inpatient Rehab
Sometimes referred to as residential rehab, inpatient programs involve the patient living at the treatment facility 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This option can be effective for those with severe problems with drugs or alcohol, and especially individuals dealing with other mental health conditions. Many inpatient rehab programs involve a step-down approach to help patients transition from this more intensive level of care to individual or group counseling outside of the facility.
Inpatient rehab, in short, requires a more significant commitment than outpatient rehab programs do. They require patients to separate from their daily life, meaning they must make arrangements to find care for their children or family members in need. They will most likely have to take an extended leave of absence from work or school. Many inpatient rehab facilities limit the amount of contact you can have with your loved ones while enrolled in a program. When compared to outpatient rehab, costs for inpatient rehab skew higher.
Outpatient Rehab
Outpatient rehab consists of daily treatment at a clinic or facility, which can take the form of one-on-one counseling, family sessions, group therapy, and more. Those who choose outpatient rehab can continue to live at home during their recovery, which allows them to tend to family members, work their jobs, and attend classes. There are myriad types of treatment when it comes to this setting; you can select the level of care that’s ideal for you. Additionally, outpatient programs can treat patients with co-occurring conditions, such as depression, bipolar disorder, or PTSD, to name a few.
Loved ones’ involvement while enrolled in outpatient rehab can vary. For example, you may need the assistance of someone to take you to and from your sessions. Likewise, you may require them to help you cope with the withdrawal process.
Which Treatment Option Is Best for You?
Here are a few questions that can help you decide whether outpatient care or inpatient care is right for you:
-How regularly are you exposed to alcohol and/or drugs?
-Do your friends and family partake in alcohol or drugs around you?
-Do specific triggers weaken your willpower?
-Are you able to leave your responsibilities long-term?
-Do you have reliable transportation?
-Have you attempted recovery before and relapsed?
You should review these questions with someone you trust; the best path of recovery depends on your unique circumstances. Fortunately, the specialists at Solstice Counseling & Wellness Center are here to help. For information about our outpatient treatment programs and what you can expect by turning to our team, contact us today.