Outpatient vs. Inpatient Addiction Treatment: Which Is Right for You?

3 out of 4 people who experience addiction are able to recover. While addiction is scary and overwhelming, with the right support, you can heal. Are you ready to start that journey? 

If so, you have some choices to make. First, will you choose inpatient or outpatient addiction treatment?

We’re here to discuss your options so you can make an informed choice. Read on to learn more. 

Pros of Inpatient Treatment

Inpatient treatment has the outstanding benefit of offering around-the-clock care and support for patients. Anyone who has tried to free themselves from addiction in the past or who is finding it exceptionally difficult to stay on track can benefit from inpatient treatment.

Inpatient treatment also separates the patient from the stressors of their day-to-day lives. Because the patient won’t be working, taking care of household responsibilities, or dealing with other stressful events at home, they can focus on recovery.

There is also no temptation in inpatient treatment. There are no opportunities for a patient to access their substances of choice.

Cons of Inpatient Treatment

The first major con of inpatient treatment is that it’s usually more expensive than outpatient treatment. It’s not accessible to everyone, and because the patient has to take time off of work to seek treatment, they may not be able to afford it. 

Inpatient treatment may not work for people who have family responsibilities that no one else can take care of. If someone has to take care of small children, for example, and they don’t have access to alternative care, inpatient isn’t a good option. 

Inpatient treatment provides plenty of support via other residents and staff, but patients are removed from their personal support networks. For some people, this is not a good option. 

Pros of Outpatient Treatment

Outpatient treatment is often considered less effective, but this isn’t really the case as long as the program is good. A well-structured outpatient program is just as effective for many patients as inpatient programs! During outpatient treatment, patients can still work and take care of responsibilities. They still have access to their friends and family members for support. 

Outpatient treatment is also often more affordable. People who need flexibility will benefit from outpatient treatment. 

Cons of Outpatient Treatment

Anyone who needs structure may not benefit as much from outpatient treatment. Because it’s not as intense, patients may lose focus. 

During outpatient treatment, patients may experience temptation. They’ll also still be in the same environment, so the same external factors influencing addiction could still be present. 

While patients will see mental health professionals often, they won’t see them daily in most cases.

Which Form of Addiction Treatment Is Right for You? 

There’s no right or wrong method of addiction treatment. All treatment options have the same goal: recovery. 

Whether you choose inpatient treatment or outpatient treatment, you’re still choosing to heal from your drug or alcohol addiction. 

At Apex, want to help you on your healing journey. Contact us to learn more about your options today.