When it comes to getting the help you need, there are a ton of options available. Inpatient and outpatient treatment can be extremely beneficial or potentially disappointing depending on your situation. If you’re thinking about which type of treatment is right for you, you’ll want to read on to learn more about these two types of addiction treatment. Keep reading to learn the advantages and disadvantages of inpatient vs. outpatient addiction treatment, as well as how each type can help you achieve your goals.
Outpatient Treatment
When you’re in outpatient treatment, you’ll be living at home while receiving therapy. You’ll have the flexibility to attend meetings on your own schedule, and your loved ones can still be part of your recovery process. Outpatient treatment isn’t all about getting your physical health in check. You’ll also be learning how to identify and cope with your mental health issues. Some common mental health issues that people with substance use disorders may experience include anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and other related disorders.
One of the major benefits of outpatient treatment is that it’s a great option for those who don’t have the financial resources for inpatient rehab. This is especially true for those who are in recovery from drugs or alcohol but don’t have insurance. However, outpatient treatment isn’t right for everyone. If you have a high risk for relapse or have a serious co-occurring disorder, outpatient treatment isn’t the best option for you.
Inpatient Treatment
If you need to get help with a substance use disorder while you’re still under the care of a doctor, an inpatient rehab program might be the best option for you. You’ll be in a medical facility under the care of a doctor 24/7, and you can rest assured that you’ll receive the help you need. Inpatient care is also a great option for those who have a high risk for relapse and need help preventing substance use. Some common reasons people choose to go to an inpatient rehab program are a history of failed outpatient programs, severe co-occurring disorders, or ongoing health concerns that make it difficult to attend outpatient treatment.
Some of the biggest benefits of inpatient addiction treatment include:
- More intense treatment – While outpatient programs may be more thorough than inpatient programs, they don’t always have the same intensity as an inpatient program. You may find yourself receiving less one-on-one time with your counselor or therapist and more group therapy sessions. This can make a big difference when it comes to your overall treatment experience.
- Better care for co-occurring disorders – Co-occurring disorders are very common in those with substance use disorders, and many of them can negatively affect your physical and mental health. Some of the most common co-occurring disorders include anxiety, depression, and eating disorders.
- Better treatment for co-morbidities – Some co-occurring disorders can be treated with medications at an outpatient program, but others can’t. Going to an inpatient program means that your doctor will be able to treat any related disorders you may have.
Which is Better?
While outpatient treatments can be beneficial, they don’t provide the same level of treatment intensity as an inpatient rehab program. For example, outpatient programs may not have the right level of care to treat co-occurring disorders or address other physical health concerns. However, if you need help with a substance use disorder and don’t have insurance or the financial resources to get inpatient treatment, an outpatient program can be a good alternative.
As you can see, there are numerous benefits and disadvantages to outpatient vs. inpatient rehab. What’s best for you will depend on your situation and your goals for recovery. If you want to go the outpatient route, but you have a high risk for relapse or you need help with co-occurring disorders, you may want to consider an inpatient program instead.
Advantages of 12-Step Programs
- Easy to access – One of the biggest advantages of 12-step programs is how easy they are to access. You can find a local group at any location, and many groups meet online as well.
- Empowering – One of the most important advantages of 12-step programs is how empowering they are. Many people with substance use disorders have low self-esteem as a result of their substance use, and they can find support and building a strong support system through a 12-step program.
- More than just treatment – Many people get stuck in the misconception that 12-step programs are just a form of treatment. However, they’re so much more than that. 12-step programs help you build a strong support system, address your mental health issues, and prevent substance use after your treatment ends.
Disadvantages of 12-Step Programs
- Program exclusivity – While the majority of 12-step programs are open to anyone who wants to participate, some groups are more welcoming to non-judgmental people and those who don’t identify as a specific type of person (i.e. gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, etc). Be sure to seek out a program that’s open to anyone who wants to join.
- Program rigidity – While 12-step programs can be very helpful for those who want to stay sober, some people find that the program is too rigid for them. Programs tend to be more judgmental than non-judgmental, and some people prefer the flexibility of non-program-based treatment.
- Program isolation – Another disadvantage of 12-step programs is that they can trap you in a “program bubble” and isolate you from your friends and family without realizing it. You may find yourself spending more time with other program participants than you would have spent with your friends and family prior to getting help.
Why is Drug rehab Important?
When you’re struggling with a substance use disorder, it can be hard to see the bright side of life. Feeling down and disconnected from others can make it difficult to see the beauty in the world, and you may even isolate yourself from your loved ones. Living with a substance use disorder can impact your mental health, your physical health, and your relationship with yourself. If you’re struggling with a substance use disorder, you may experience anxiety, depression, and stress, among other disorders.
If you don’t address your mental health issues and your substance use disorder, you may experience a lot of emotional and physical pain as you try to deal with these issues on your own. Fortunately, there are many resources that can help you overcome these challenges and live a life of happiness and health. One of the best things you can do for yourself is get help for your substance use disorder.
Conclusion
When it comes to addiction treatment, it’s important to remember that there are two different options available: inpatient treatment and outpatient treatment. While both types of treatment can be helpful for those who need help overcoming substance use disorders, inpatient treatment is more intense and focuses on the physical and mental health of the individual. On the other hand, outpatient treatment is more focused on developing healthy coping mechanisms and learning how to prevent future substance use.
There are many benefits and disadvantages to both types of treatment, and it can be difficult to decide which option is best for you. By taking the time to learn more about both types of treatment, you can make the best decision for your unique situation.
Our counselors are available 24 hours a day to support and guide those struggling with alcohol addiction. Do not wait another moment to begin your journey to sobriety and wellness. Call us at 833-820-2922 today to get started on the road to recovery.