Over 40 million people in the United States struggle with a substance use disorder, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. This staggering statistic showcases just how critical seeking professional treatment is to safely and effectively breaking free from the chains of addiction for good. Sometimes, it can be difficult to understand what treatment are right for you. In this article, we’ll explore how residential and outpatient rehab programs compare so you can receive the right treatment for you.
Multi Center Recovery offers top-rated rehab centers to support each individual’s unique recovery needs. Whether you are in need of addiction treatment programs to overcome addiction or you are in need of comprehensive mental health treatment, we provide a range of personalized treatment options to support your unique recovery needs. Ready to start your recovery journey? Contact us today!
3 Differences Between Residential and Outpatient Rehab Programs
1. 24/7 Care vs More Flexible Treatment
The first major difference between residential vs outpatient rehab programs is the level or amount of support you receive. With residential or inpatient rehab programs, you receive 24/7 support for your recovery. This treatment program approach is especially for patients struggling with more moderate to severe addictions or mental illness, and thus are in need of more extensive care.
Meanwhile, outpatient rehab programs offer patients more flexibility. Outpatient rehab programs, unlike residential programs, do not offer 24/7 care. However, patients can receive treatment on a periodic basis (ie. a few times per week) so they can receive the essential care that they need to progress in their recovery journey, while also being able to balance other responsibilities in their life. Outpatient programs can be especially great for those who are further along in their recovery journey and are in need of additional treatment to help reduce their risk of relapse.
2. Residential Treatment Typically Is More Expensive
Because residential treatment programs offer more extensive care in terms of treatment and time commitment (ie, residential programs offering 24/7 care), inevitably, most residential programs are more expensive than outpatient treatment programs. Therefore, pricing is another important factor to consider. While this does not mean that outpatient treatment is less effective due to the lower cost, it does mean that depending on your unique recovery needs will impact which treatment program is right for you.
For example, if you are suffering from a more severe condition that requires 24/7 care to safely detox, you are likely suited for a residential treatment program. Meanwhile, if you are looking for additional resources to help you maintain your recovery needs on your sobriety journey, you may consider seeking out outpatient treatment alternatives.
3. Your Unique Needs Will Impact Which Is Right For You
Last but not least, when comparing residential vs outpatient rehab programs, it’s critical to understand what your unique recovery needs are, as this will dictate which treatment program is right for you. For example, as explained above, if you are just starting your recovery journey and need help safely detoxing to help you overcome your addiction, a residential treatment program is likely right for you. This is because in a residential program, you’ll be able to receive constant monitoring from licensed mental health care providers to ensure you are safely detoxing.
Understanding how do residential and outpatient rehab programs compare is important to ensure you receive the right treatment for your unique recovery needs. While both offer effective care, they are typically best suited for patients in differing stages in their recovery journey. Regardless of whether you are just starting your recovery journey, or have been sober for years and are looking for additional support, it’s important to consider seeking professional treatment to help you lead a healthier, happier life.
Help Is Available
Now you know more about how do residential and outpatient rehab programs compare. Residential treatment offers patients 24/7 care, and is especially for patients who are struggling with a more moderate to severe form of substance use disorder or mental illness. Meanwhile, outpatient treatment offers patients a more flexible and affordable alternative as it is not 24/7 care; however, this approach is typically for individuals struggling with a milder addiction, or are in need of additional care to maintain their sobriety.
You are not alone- help is available! At Multi Center Recovery, our compassionate team of addiction specialists and mental health professionals is here to help you every step of the way along your recovery journey. We understand that each patient’s recovery needs are unique. This is why we provide a wide range of treatment programs and services. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your unique recovery needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between inpatient, outpatient, and residential rehab programs?
Inpatient rehab is similar to residential treatment programs in that they both provide live-in, 24/7 support to help you progress along your recovery journey. And, while they are sometimes used interchangeably, it’s important to understand there are differences between inpatient vs residential treatment.
Inpatient treatment typically offers more short-term, intensive care for patients. Meanwhile, residential treatment programs are also live-in, 24/7 care; however, they are more of a long-term treatment approach that is held in a rehab center.
Meanwhile, outpatient care offers more flexibility than inpatient or residential treatment programs, and is typically recommended for patients who have already effectively overcome addiction and are looking for additional resources to help support their sobriety.
Is residential treatment considered outpatient?
No, residential treatment is not considered a form of outpatient care. Residential treatment programs are oftentimes associated with being an inpatient rehab as patients stay in a live-in facility where they can receive 24/7 care to ensure they are safely and effectively progressing along their recovery journey. Meanwhile, outpatient treatment does not consist of a live-in program, but rather offers patients a more flexible way to continue receiving professional treatment for their recovery needs, without having to stay/live on site in a rehab center.
Which is more expensive inpatient or outpatient treatment?
Typically, inpatient treatment options are more expensive than outpatient treatment. This is due to inpatient treatment programs being more intensive in terms of time commitment and intensity of care. In other words, patients staying on site in a facility for 24/7 support receive a greater level of intensity of care than patients seeking outpatient treatment options. This is not to say outpatient care is not effective; however, outpatient treatment is typically recommended for patients who have already overcome their addiction or are on the path to sobriety. Meanwhile, inpatient rehab is more for patients in need of detoxing and just beginning their recovery journey.
