Choosing the Right Treatment for Your Recovery
If you’re dealing with alcohol abuse, drug addiction, an eating disorder, a mental illness, or any combination of these issues, finding the right treatment plan is crucial. There are two main types of rehab: inpatient and outpatient. It’s important to understand the differences so you can choose the best option for your needs at this stage in your recovery.
The First Step: Detox
First things first, if you’re addicted to any substance, you need to detox—this means getting clean and sober before moving forward with your treatment. Once you’ve detoxed, both inpatient and outpatient treatments can be highly effective.
Inpatient Treatment
Inpatient treatment means you stay at the rehab facility for the entire duration of the program. These programs typically last 30, 60, or 90 days. During this time, you won’t be able to leave the facility except for program-approved outings. The goal is to prevent you from using substances or engaging in harmful behaviors related to your disorder. This environment provides continuous accountability, which is especially helpful in the early stages of recovery.
Outpatient Treatment
On the other hand, outpatient treatment allows you to live at home or another location while attending treatment sessions at the facility. You’ll either attend during the day or evening and return home afterward. While outpatient programs still enforce 100% abstinence and conduct regular drug tests, you’ll have more personal responsibility compared to inpatient programs. Outpatient treatment is ideal if you believe you can maintain abstinence on your own and just need support in developing coping strategies for daily life.
How to Decide Between Inpatient and Outpatient Treatment:
Inpatient treatment might be the right choice if you answer ‘yes’ to any of these questions:
– Do you need 24-hour monitoring to stay symptom-free?
– Will you engage in harmful behaviors if you don’t have constant support?
– Have you tried but failed to stop your substance use or eating disorder behaviors on your own?
– Is this your first time seeking formal treatment for your disorder?
– Are you surrounded by people who use substances regularly?
– Does your health insurance cover inpatient treatment?
Outpatient treatment may be the better option if you answer ‘yes’ to any of these questions:
– Is it impossible for you to miss work or school, or to leave your home responsibilities?
– Have you already completed an inpatient treatment program?
– Do you have more than 30 days of abstinence under your belt?
– Are financial concerns a major factor, making outpatient services a more affordable option?
– Do you have a supportive, substance-free environment at home?
– Does your health insurance only cover outpatient services?
The sooner you start either form of treatment, the better your chances of recovery. Contact treatment centers to begin your journey to healing today.