Inpatient vs. Outpatient Addiction Treatment: Differences Explained

The road to recovery always requires a good support network to help you put your life back on track. Some people need more intensive support than others with their addiction treatment.

There is a clear choice you can make when it comes to addiction treatment options. There is a clear distinction between inpatient treatment and an outpatient recovery program.

Here is a look at the key differences between the two.

Inpatient treatment explained

In general terms, an inpatient treatment program is offered in a professional setting such as a clinic or a hospital.

The reason for choosing the inpatient treatment option is usually when a patient requires almost constant supervision and medical monitoring. Withdrawing from alcohol, or suffering a severe mental health problem, are two prime examples of where an impatient option would usually be the preferred option.

Someone who has had several relapses or not managed to complete a successful recovery process would probably be considered for inpatient treatment.

Outpatient treatment explained

A typical outpatient treatment program would be where a patient attends a treatment facility for a specific session duration. They would then leave to go home or go to a residential facility that is different to an inpatient arrangement.

There is usually a lot more freedom and opportunity for independence with an outpatient option.

If you were undergoing outpatient treatment you would be encouraged to visit family members or engage in different recreational activities as part of helping the recovery process to go as smoothly as possible.

Pros and cons of inpatient treatment

You get constant supervision and support with an inpatient treatment option. Being in this sort of controlled environment makes it harder to get alcohol or drugs, and gives you access to support if you are experiencing cravings or withdrawal symptoms.

One of the obvious disadvantages of inpatient treatment is that it tends to be far more expensive than outpatient treatment. It is also worth remembering that inpatient treatments only last for a specific period of time. That means there is likely to be a transition to outpatient treatment at some point.

Pros and cons of outpatient treatment

One of the biggest advanatges of outpatient treatment is that the treatment programs allow you to continue a normal life while getting addiction help.

An outpatient treatment program does not have to be time-limited. That means you can use the facility for as long as you need.

It is often the case that outpatient treatment programs encourage a strong social support network, which can be very beneficial moving forward.

One of the obvious downsides to outpatient treatment is the fact that you are not being give 24/7 support. This is why patients who have had several relapses are not always good candidates for outpatient treatment.

As you can see, there are clear distinctions between inpatient and outpatient treatment options.

When you look at the two recovery options you can see that the right type and level of support is there to hel you beat addiction. It is always wise to talk to a professional about your treatment options ib order to choose between an inpatient and outpatient option.