There are two types of treatment programs for drug and alcohol addiction, inpatient and outpatient. Outpatient programs give an individual more freedom to live at home and receive treatment. Where inpatient rehab provides the highest level of services at a live-in facility. This includes residential treatment, medical detox, as well as integrated mental health services.
During inpatient rehab, an individual is to stay at a clinic or facility with around-the-clock medical and emotional support. Medical professionals help patients cope with withdrawal symptoms and detox from drugs and alcohol in a safe and controlled manner.
What is Detox
During detox, your body is working to clear out and cleanse itself from the drugs or alcohol consumed. Detox centers help an individual safely manage withdrawal symptoms with medical staff assisting 24/7. Choosing to detox at home with no medical help can be dangerous and deadly. Depending on the substance, withdrawal symptoms can last for days or months with severe side effects.
Some of the factors that play a role in the length of withdrawal include:
- Type of substance the user is addicted to
- Duration of the addiction
- Method of abuse (snorting, smoking, injecting, or swallowing)
- Amount of substance taken
- Family history
- Underlying medical conditions
The detox process looks different from patient to patient, however, in most cases, it is a three-step process; evaluation, stabilization, and preparing for entry into treatment.
3 Step Detox Process
During the evaluation process, medical professionals screen each patient for signs of physical and mental health issues. Blood is tested to assess the number of drugs or alcohol in a patient’s system to help determine the level of medications needed. With all of this data, as well as a comprehensive review of drug, medical, and psychiatric history, a treatment plan is created.
During the stabilization process, patients are monitored and supported with medical and psychological therapy. The goal of this step is to prevent any harm to the patient during the detoxification process. Doctors can prescribe medication to help manage or reduce withdrawal symptoms on a case-by-case basis.
The final step of the detox process is to prepare the individual for their treatment program. Doctors help familiarize their patients with their treatment program and what to expect, whether that is through inpatient or outpatient treatment. In most cases, the next step is inpatient programs following detox.
What to Expect During Inpatient Programs
During an inpatient treatment program, each individual stays at a facility for various lengths of time. The average stay lasts 30 days, however, some facilities offer longer programs including 60 or 90 days. The length of a patient’s program can depend on the severity of their addiction, any existing co-occurring mental health conditions, and if a patient has been through a rehab program in the past.
Inpatient treatment facilities offer unique accommodations from the next facility. Some offer a more basic option with shared rooms, cafeteria-style meals, and recreational activities like pool or ping-pong. While there are more private luxury options that offer private suites, gourmet meals, and upscale activity options including a gym, spa, or swimming pool.
Facilities will require daily therapy sessions, whether group or individual, as well as traditional and nontraditional therapies. Some facilities also offer family therapy which helps your loved ones cope with your addiction and learn to support you and forgive during the process.
The Difference Between Inpatient and Outpatient
The main difference between inpatient and outpatient treatment is your living situation and the level of care. During inpatient treatment you stay at a facility, receiving medical attention and treatment all day long. During outpatient treatment, patients are now free to live at home and transition back into normalcy. However, with this freedom comes the need for strong willpower and determination to continue your sobriety.
Many who leave treatment end up relapsing in the first 6 months. Outpatient treatment programs, such as partial hospitalization programs, intensive outpatient programs, and general outpatient programs. A partial hospitalization program is the most restrictive out of the three requiring an individual to attend therapy 5-7 days a week for a few hours a day. The amount decreases from program to program but helps the individual transition safely with the tools needed for success in their normal lives.
Both inpatient and outpatient programs are extremely useful and beneficial for every individual struggling with an addiction. Starting with detox and transitioning on to inpatient and outpatient treatment is the best option to set yourself up for success.
Get Help Today
The very first step towards recovery is admitting you have a problem and allowing yourself to get the professional help you need. The Harm Reduction Center in South Florida offers many levels of care from Integrated Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) to all levels of outpatient care. We strive to provide every individual who walks through our doors with highly individualized treatment plans to help you succeed and take back your life.
We understand addiction is a disease that can seem like a losing game, however, we are here every step of the way to help you beat your addiction. Contact us today!
