You may be making the decision between inpatient and outpatient treatment for substance abuse for yourself or a loved one. While both programs provide a pathway to sobriety, the key is to determine which is right for you. In order to do so, you must know the difference between the two.
Inpatient Treatment
Inpatient rehab is lasts about 30 days. During this time, patients live at the addiction treatment facility or rehab. The treatment center acts as a safe place for patients to undergo more intensive treatment than outpatient care. As an inpatient, the person follows predetermined daily schedules. This helps them rebuild basic routines, integrity, life skills and other qualities lost to addiction. The structured living also keeps them away from people and places that made them feel compelled to use. Inpatient treatment is a highly focused treatment options for patients to recover from addiction without any distractions.
Outpatient Treatment
Intensive outpatient treatment programs allow patients to continue living at home, and fulfill family and work obligations, while they undergo treatment. Outpatient treatment programs may involve daytime or evening sessions, and the patient can return home overnight. Outpatient rehab is fit only for those who are able to resist daily triggers and temptations for substance abuse.