Approximately 15 million people in the United States have an alcohol use disorder. It’s a chronic disease characterized by uncontrolled drinking and preoccupation with alcohol due to physical and emotional dependence. Overcoming drug or alcohol addiction by yourself can be extremely difficult, but the good news is you don’t have to. The healing and supportive environment of a rehabilitation program can give you everything you need to make a safe and successful recovery.
There are many types of substance use treatments, like addiction detox, individual or group therapy, and counseling. These treatments are available in inpatient and outpatient programs, but making the decision between inpatient vs outpatient rehab can be confusing.
Inpatient vs. outpatient rehab
Admitting you have a problem and seeking help is the first step toward long-lasting recovery. You and your doctor can compare inpatient vs outpatient alcohol rehab programs and decide which one is right for you.
If you have a less severe alcohol use disorder, sober support system, stable living environment and are in good physical health, then an outpatient rehab program may be the right choice for you. Though these programs vary in length depending on your unique needs, they generally allow you to maintain your normal routine without the need to stay at a treatment center 24/7.
However, if your addiction is more severe and you have a limited sober support system, unstable living situation or other health conditions, then a residential or inpatient rehab program will give you a stable, supportive environment with 24/7 care during your journey toward recovery.
Inpatient alcohol rehab: How it works
An inpatient alcohol rehab program provides onsite, around-the-clock care and monitoring from licensed drug and alcohol counselors and mental health professionals. These programs can last anywhere from 3 weeks to 12 months, depending on your unique needs and circumstances. Typical treatments include:
- Addiction detoxification
- Individual substance use therapy
- Group substance use counseling
- Support groups
- Skill-building sessions
- Relapse prevention education
- Follow-up treatment and aftercare planning
Benefits of inpatient alcohol rehab
Inpatient rehab offers several benefits that will help anyone trying to overcome a drug or alcohol addiction including:
- Structure
Inpatient rehab programs offer full daily schedules, once you’ve completely detoxed, so you have less time to think about drugs or alcohol. - No access to drugs or alcohol
Residential rehab patients always remain at the facility, which eliminates the chance of relapse. This is a particularly safe option for those in early recovery. - Complete focus on the self
Inpatient rehab eliminates all distractions and sources of stress, allowing those in recovery to fully focus on their recovery. - New friendships
Inpatient rehab is a great source for finding others who are going through the same thing and have a common goal of sobriety. These can be strong, long-lasting friendships that offer much-needed support. - Balanced diet
Inpatient rehab offers healthy food choices to not only help the body get through the initial withdrawal but also gain physical and mental strength throughout the recovery process.
Outpatient alcohol rehab: How it works
Like inpatient rehab, the intensive outpatient alcohol rehab programs at Miramar Recovery Center also vary in length and intensity depending on your unique needs and circumstances. Treatment options include:
- Medication-assisted withdrawal
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Individual substance use therapy
- Group substance use counseling
- Relapse prevention education
Benefits of outpatient alcohol rehab
- Flexible
Outpatient rehab programs give you the flexibility to overcome your addiction from the comfort of your home and without disrupting your daily responsibilities. It is important, however, to be sure the stressors of daily life will not push you back into addiction. - Support
For some, there’s no substitute for the in-person support of loved ones. - Affordable
Outpatient rehab is less expensive than inpatient rehab, making it more accessible to the average person. However, it’s important to consider the severity of your addiction and long-term goals when making your decision. - Resources
Outpatient rehab programs will help you connect with people and groups outside of the program, allowing you to continue your recovery journey when you’re finished with rehab.
Now that you’ve learned many of the differences between inpatient vs. outpatient alcohol rehab, call Miramar Recovery Center to schedule an initial consultation and find out which one of our treatment programs is right for you. Our highly skilled and compassionate team is ready to help you overcome addiction and navigate your life without drugs or alcohol.
