The National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) published a survey in 2007 stating that 23.2 million people in the United States, ages 12 and over, require some form of treatment for drug abuse.
Drug addiction is a complex condition comprised of biological, behavioral and environmental factors. In order to provide the most effective treatment for drug addiction, it is important that an person’s care is as comprehensive and individualized as his or her experience. Depending on an individual’s history and needs in drug rehabilitation, there are two types of treatment available: Inpatient and outpatient. Understanding the differences between these two types of rehabilitation is important in choosing the right treatment for a loved one.
But, regardless of the chosen method, both inpatient and outpatient drug rehabilitation offer a plethora of benefits that will support a sober lifestyle. The longer an individual is engaged with a treatment program, the more likely he or she will stay sober and avoid relapse.
Inpatient Drug Rehab
Inpatient treatment often requires an individual to live in a facility 24 hours a day, seven days a week for a fixed period of time (after the withdrawal phase is complete). Different inpatient drug rehabilitation programs vary in their requirements for length of stay. These programs are often most beneficial for those who have an extensive history of substance abuse or may require medical intervention due to the severity of addiction. An inpatient treatment program guards patients from enabling peers and destructive environments and ensures them a safe place to recover.
This type of drug rehabilitation program places staff and patients in a communal environment designed to not only help an individual achieve sobriety, but also to change his or her life as well as attitude and behaviors related to drug use. Inpatient treatment assists patients through the various stages of recovery and helps them become independent, sober individuals.
The unique environment of an inpatient program surrounds patients with others who share similar experiences: People who are all working towards the same goal. Creating a sober community is another therapeutic benefit of inpatient treatment. It is often the most successful method of addressing drug addiction as it helps patients build a new foundation to support a sober lifestyle after treatment.
More About Inpatient Drug Treatment
Outpatient Drug Rehab
Outpatient treatment often includes a variety of therapies in which an individual must visit a facility regularly. There are a variety of outpatient programs that address different needs, but many utilize some form of counseling, including individual and group therapies. These therapies are designed to help patients cope with stressors and negative influences while empowering them to avoid situations that may encourage relapse.
Those in outpatient treatment are required to stay sober in order to continue their therapy. Because clients are able to attend sessions are return home afterwards, they are granted greater independence through outpatient treatment and are able to immediately apply lessons learned to the real world.
Outpatient treatment offers many of the same benefits as inpatient treatment, but at a lower intensity. This form of treatment is often recommended as aftercare for those who have already successfully completed inpatient treatment. This form of treatment also tends to be more open-ended as clients attend therapies weekly and work with therapists to determine their needs for continued treatment. Outpatient tends to be more beneficial for those who have obligations they cannot put on hold with inpatient treatment. The flexibility of this program allows clients to participate in therapy and still fulfill their daily obligations.
Sources
http://www.recovery.org/topics/choosing-inpatient-rehab-vs-outpatient-rehabilitation/
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