What is the Difference Between Inpatient Vs. Outpatient Rehab?

Inpatient or Outpatient rehab is intended for the addicted person to detox safely. Inpatient programs usually have medical professionals available all day at a wellness centre.

Outpatient programs are considered day time programs where one can detox and still go to work or school. Which is the best option for a loved one or yourself? That depends on a few factors.

Inpatient Rehab

Inpatient rehab is an intensive residential treatment program designed to treat serious addictions such as drugs or alcohol. Patients are required to check themselves into a facility and remain there for a certain period of time. While there, they are under 24 hour surveillance from medical professionals and staff. 

Before Inpatient Rehab, one has to think about the following:

• Talking to to your employer 
• Finding living arrangements for your children or other family members
• Planning how to get to and from the rehab centre
• Finding out what personal items are allowed

Also, family support is encouraged for those suffering substance withdrawal symptoms. Positivity from having contact with your loved ones provides emotional support and overall encouragement. 

A Day In Rehab

Being at a treatment centre allows patients to focus completely on their recovery. Usually, medical professionals meet with patients and provide support anywhere from 14 days to 4 months. Inpatient rehab is an intensive program designed to detox and begin living life sober under medical supervision.

Medically Assisted Detox

Medical detox is the first step of rehab. Doctors use specific medication to cleanse the body of harmful and addictive substances. Drug cravings, Delirium Tremens, and general relapse are difficult to overcome at this stage of recovery. The presence of doctors and their knowledge of medicine helps patients deal with the burden of withdrawal.

It must be noted that some drugs, like opioids, heroin and Benzodiazepines, can have lethal consequences when trying to get sober on your own. Without medical attention, trying to quit such harmful substances can end one’s life. Medical professionals are there to assist in going through detox safely and successfully.  

Outpatient Rehab

Outpatient rehab can be thought of as a part-time, or less intensive detox program. This program usually requires 10-12 hours a week at a local treatment centre. It is a good option for those that can still control addiction and attend regular sessions addressing their substance abuse. Individual sessions or group sessions at the treatment centre teach the addicted on how to overcome their substance abuse.  Outpatient rehab can be successful for those seeking to detox from drug or alcohol abuse. Most programs last from 3 to 6 months, or longer. 

Medical professionals and staff are there at the local treatment centres to administer appropriate drugs to ease the symptoms of withdrawal. Also, family support is greatly encouraged for those balancing life and getting sober through Outpatient rehab. 

If you would like more information on our Inpatient rehab program or would like to know more about Outpatient rehab, please contact us today.