If you or a loved one suffers from substance addiction such as that of drugs or alcohol, you might be asked to choose between inpatient rehab or outpatient therapy as an intervention. Given such options, how does one choose? New Vista Health, a leading inpatient rehab in Indianapolis that also offers outpatient therapy services offers us some factors to help you decide which one to choose.

The best way to do this is by understanding the difference between the two. From there, you can hopefully come up with a decision that you feel will help you best because the best treatment is one that you will consistently and willingly commit to.

So, what is in-patient rehab?

An inpatient rehab program, also known as a residential treatment program, means that the patient will stay in the facility to receive treatment and interventions, and they will stay there until the desired results have been achieved. The length of stay will depend on the patient’s needs. Like a ‘resident’, the patient has access to rehabilitative spaces, equipment, and therapists, allowing them to work toward their recovery goals in a more guided manner. Meals and medications are also provided and monitored by the staff during the patient’s stay, ensuring that they do their part in the recovery process. 

Inpatient rehab programs can be more intensive and recommended for more severe cases of addiction. Staying in a dedicated facility can help the patient focus on safe recovery while getting support from professionals and other residents. 

If the patient is recovering from serious substance use or addiction, an inpatient rehab program is highly recommended for them. It allows them to work with therapists to identify their triggers, ways to avoid the triggers, and healthier coping mechanisms. Proper meals and medication will be provided, with 24-hour supervision and care. Workshops focused group discussions, and other wellness activities are offered in the program. Focusing on recovery, without getting distracted by anything outside the facility, can also lead to the patient’s self-discovery of how they can help themselves and how their actions affect those around them. 

How about outpatient therapy?

Outpatient therapy means that the patient will have a series of visits to the treatment facility - a clinic or a therapist - to get the care they need. This gives the patient flexibility in doing their regular chores - at work, school, or home - while being on their way to recovery. Scheduled appointments or sessions for treatment can last for a couple of hours, depending on the patient’s needs. Exercises or activities that can be done at home are usually given for patients to follow as part of their treatment plan.

Outpatient rehab programs are a good option for those who are confident enough to take care of themselves and have the resources to do so. Aside from that, the patient is also expected to have the discipline to follow the treatment plans, which include food and medicine intake, provided by the medical professionals.

Patients with mild to moderate addiction might find outpatient rehab programs a more fitting treatment. Such programs are also helpful to those who are experiencing withdrawal symptoms. These can be more effective and flexible, especially if the therapist deemed the patient ready for such a program. 

Choosing an outpatient rehab program may require support from the patient’s family and friends. Certain aids, such as medications, must be available to ensure effective recovery. Since there is no medical staff around, the patient is expected to follow the therapist’s advice for optimal results. Family or friends can also help in monitoring the patient’s recovery. 

Now, which one is better - inpatient or outpatient rehab programs? 

Just as it was laid out in the beginning, the answer is ultimately up to the patient. Of course, there are recommended treatment options depending on the patient’s needs, but know that the best treatment plan is the one that you or your loved one will see yourself through. 

Choosing a treatment option is a good starting point for recovery. If you can’t decide yet, reaching out to professionals can help you make a choice.