What Are Inpatient and Outpatient Treatments?

One may think of a lot of different things when one hears about drug and alcohol treatment programs. However, all of these treatment programs can be organized into two categories—inpatient or outpatient. Each type of treatment has pros and cons associated with it, but it all really depends on what the individual needs and is looking for in their rehab program. Inpatient treatments are comprehensive, residential treatment programs specifically meant for those whose addictions are serious. Outpatient treatments are part-time programs that allow the patient to keep attending school or work.

Inpatient Treatment

Inpatient treatment programs entail a controlled environment where a patient will check-in, similar to a hospital, and live there. These clinics have medical and psychiatric care available around the clock for all of the residents.

Preparing for Inpatient Treatment

Since inpatient treatment requires one to live at the clinic, there is a certain amount of preparation that must be undergone before one check-in. Some of the things to take care of before entering rehab include:

• Making arrangements with your place of employment
• Making sure any children you have will be taken care of
• Transportation
• Personal belongings

Family Support

The support of your family or loved ones is one of the most important aspects of recovery. Just because you are going through inpatient treatment does not mean you are cut off from the world. Your family will be able to come to visit you.

Each inpatient treatment center is different when it comes to how many visitors are allowed and how often.

Daily Life

Inpatient treatment programs are not all the same, but most will run anywhere from twenty-eight days to six months. The benefit of inpatient treatment is residents will no longer have the distractions of their day to day lives to impede their recovery. They are able to completely focus on getting well. Every day in inpatient treatment is carefully scheduled and documented, allowing for the benefits of routine. Patients will be able to meet with psychologists, counselors, and psychiatrists individually and in groups. 

The first and most important step in recovering from addiction is medically assisted detox. This is why it’s important for those with serious addictions to be in inpatient treatment programs. Doctors will be on hand to monitor vital signs while the substances exit the patient’s system. Drug cravings can be difficult to overcome on one’s own, which often leads to a relapse. Constant medical care provided during inpatient treatment helps guard against relapse. An inpatient clinic can provide medicine and counseling to lessen cravings and withdrawals.

In some instances, drugs should not be quit at all without medical supervision. Some withdrawals can be fatal. Lethal withdrawals are most often seen with drugs like synthetic opiates, benzodiazepines, alcohol, and heroin. 

Outpatient Treatment

Now that you know the basics of inpatient treatment, let’s talk about outpatient treatment. Outpatient treatment programs require less time and restrictions. These programs usually take up about ten to twelve hours a week of your time. You will be visiting a treatment center a few times a week.

Outpatient treatment sessions entail lectures on drug abuse education, counseling (both individual and group), and lessons on how to cope with addiction. This is a good option for someone with a mild addiction, or as part of a long-term treatment program involving other treatment options. Many recovering addicts also turn to outpatient treatment after completing an inpatient program as part of their path to recovery. Outpatient treatment programs typically last anywhere from three to six months or sometimes over a year.

Outpatient Detox

Detoxing during outpatient treatment is very different from inpatient treatment. This is recommended for those suffering from mild or moderate withdrawal symptoms. If your cravings are not severe, this is a safe method of detoxification.

During outpatient detox, you should visit a hospital or a clinic for regular checkups to make sure all is going well. You may be able to have medications prescribed for certain withdrawal symptoms like anxiety.

Social SupportThe greatest benefit of outpatient treatment programs is being able to stay home. These treatment centers hold meetings at night or in the morning which allows patients to still attend school or work. 

Groups like Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous are often attended in conjunction with outpatient treatment.

Conclusion

There are several differences between inpatient and outpatient treatments, but both are beneficial depending on what you are looking for in treatment. Inpatient treatment programs typically cost more than outpatient programs. However, the price difference should not dissuade you from choosing the best treatment option for yourself. For further information on both inpatient and outpatient treatments, visit The Hope House and see all that they have to offer. Thanks to  The House of Hope for doing a great job for the residents of Arizona. If you are a drug or alcohol addiction treatment center and are looking to promote your message via an article drop us a line at hi(at-sign)rehabnear.me.

Drug & Alcohol Rehab Scottsdale Arizona