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How Do Residential and Outpatient Rehab Programs Compare?

Residential vs Outpatient Rehab—What’s the Difference and How Do You Choose?

Are you or a loved one thinking about a drug or alcohol rehab program? You may have seen that there are two main treatment options: residential, or “inpatient”, and outpatient rehab programs. 

Each of these uses a different strategy. Each has its pros and cons. When looking at residential rehab versus outpatient rehab, there’s a lot to consider. Before you decide, you should learn about your choices. Then, with the advice of treatment professionals, you can start your recovery in a way that’s best for you.

What Is a Residential Rehab Program?

In an residential or “inpatient” rehab, patients live at a treatment center for a long period of time. This is usually 1-3 months. Most centers have a basic treatment timeline that can be extended based on the situation.

Residential rehab often begins with detox. There, patients deal with the initial withdrawal symptoms of stopping drug or alcohol use. This is done in a controlled setting with trained professionals. That way patients can begin the main program feeling healthy and motivated.

Once in the main program, patients are surrounded by support 24 hours a day. They follow a strict schedule that involves personal and group therapy. Contact with the outside world is often limited so that patients remain focused on treatment. 

Benefits

Residential rehab is the more intense option. It’s a lot stricter, but it comes with specific benefits:

  • Medical detox
  • Clean and focused environment
  • More time for treatment
  • Fewer distractions
  • High success rates

Who Should Go to Residential Rehab?

Residential rehab is best for those suffering from long-term drug or alcohol abuse. If their addiction is causing problems in their everyday life, they may need an isolated environment with no distractions. This could mean problems at school or work. People who have had many relapses and haven’t been able to quit on their own should consider this option.

What Is an Outpatient Rehab Program?

In outpatient rehab, patients continue their normal lives. They go to school or work as always, and they live at home. They only come into the rehab center for scheduled classes or therapy.

Counselors help patients keep track of their progress. They also hold them accountable and talk with them about any difficulties they’re having. 

Benefits

Outpatient rehab is the more flexible option. It comes with these benefits:

  • Ability to continue work or school
  • Ability to see friends and family
  • Getting used to real-life obstacles to recovery
  • Flexible schedule

Who Should Go to Outpatient Rehab?

After residential rehab, a lot of patients transition into outpatient treatment. This helps you move back into normal everyday life. If you are far along the path to recovery but still feel that you need some professional help, consider this option.

An outpatient program might also be right for those in the early stages of addiction. You can address your problem before things get too serious.

Residential Rehab vs Outpatient Rehab Success Rates

Every person is different. The kind of treatment that’s best for an individual depends on many things. It’s impossible to say if residential or outpatient rehab is more successful.

Scientists have done studies, though. These show that residential rehab programs are more effective for most people. For example, a study in Switzerland found that residential rehab was better for about 75% of patients.

That doesn’t mean residential rehab programs are right for everyone. You will have to talk to a professional and decide for yourself. However, if you can commit to residential rehab, we highly recommend it.

Find the Right Treatment Program For You

It can be hard to choose between residential and outpatient rehab. Each has its pros and cons. It’s best to get professional advice.

At a treatment center, trained experts can look at your situation and help you decide. Creating a personalized plan is just the first step in your recovery. Once in treatment, proven methods like group therapy move you along the path to a healthy lifestyle.

If you or a loved one is suffering from drug or alcohol abuse, there is always hope. With so many options for treatment, there’s no reason to wait. Call your local treatment center today and see what option works best for you or your loved one.

Sources:

  1. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (n.d.). Principles of Effective Treatment.
  2. Rossegger, A., Keller, A., Odenwald, M., & Endrass, J.
  3. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, & Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration/Center for Substance Abuse Treatment.