When it comes time to make your final decision about inpatient vs. outpatient drug rehab, you might feel at a loss. Both options for recovery are great and offer their benefits.
However, there are certain things to consider when deciding which is right for you.
Are you someone who requires the support of others at all times? Do you have obligations that may hinder your ability to stay sober, such as children or a job that requires frequent travel?
These are just a few questions you should ask yourself before making this critical decision. This article will help you see beyond the surface of these two options and determine which one is best suited to meet your needs.
What Is Inpatient Drug Rehab?
Inpatient drug rehab is a form of treatment requiring you to live at the facility for a certain time. This means you will not be able to leave during the duration of your treatment unless there’s an emergency.
Some people choose the inpatient route because they feel it will make it easier to focus entirely on their recovery. They don’t have to worry about daily stresses or other obligations that may cause them to relapse.
What is Outpatient Drug Rehab?
Outpatient drug rehab is designed for people who can achieve their goals without leaving home. This type of treatment doesn’t require you to live on the premises.
You can attend treatment sessions at a specific time each day and return home to your family and everyday responsibilities at the end of the day. You could be a single parent, an employed person who travels frequently, or someone who just wants to keep up with their daily routine while getting clean.
What to Consider Before Making a Decision
Before deciding on inpatient vs. outpatient drug rehab, you should consider several factors.
First, you should consider your current situation and what you need right now to put your life back on the right track. This could include the factors listed below.
Your Obligations
Do you have kids or dependents you need to take care of regularly? Are you employed full-time, or are you in school? Do you have a significant other who relies on you to be there for them?
All of these factors will come into play when deciding whether outpatient or inpatient drug rehab is right for you.
Your Substance Use History
You probably have an addiction if you’ve been abusing drugs for a long time. The longer you’ve been using drugs and alcohol, the more your brain chemistry has been altered.
This means you’ll need to create new pathways in your brain to function normally again. You may need to attend many sessions of therapy, take medication to help with withdrawal symptoms and, if necessary, attend inpatient treatment.
The Final Word
Inpatient and outpatient drug rehab are good options for people trying to get clean.
In general, inpatient drug rehab is better for people who’ve been abusing drugs for a long time, have a co-occurring mental health issue, or need medication to help with withdrawal.
Outpatient treatment is better for people who have been abusing drugs for a short time, don’t have a co-occurring mental health issue, and don’t need medication to break free from addiction.
However, the best choice for you depends on your personal needs. Keep the information highlighted above in mind so you can make the right choice for your situation.
