Alcoholism and drug addiction can turn an otherwise promising life into a chaotic mess. Once you cross the line, help is usually the only solution. However, what type of help do you need to help bring an end to an alcohol or drug addiction problem? There are some theories who believe meetings are essential, but are they enough?
To help establish a strong foundation for sustained recovery, most recommend some level of treatment. There are two primary types of programs, inpatient and outpatient. So, if you don’t think you can afford an inpatient rehab program, will an outpatient program be able to help? Let’s try to answer that question by explaining the difference between the two programs.
Outpatient vs. Inpatient
Inpatient treatment is a situation where you become part of a residential treatment facility. While many of the principles you will learn are the same, inpatient has one key ingredient that outpatient cannot offer.
You will be in a residential facility that establishes safeguards to prevent you from being exposed to drugs or alcohol. Elements of your home environment, which can frequently trigger, are also removed.
There is structure in both outpatient and inpatient treatment programs, but part of the appeal of inpatient is what it removes. When you elect to enter an outpatient treatment program, you will be offered the same learning opportunities to establish a foundation for living a clean and sober life.
An outpatient is a viable option for those seeking treatment for the first time. It can also work if you’re someone who may not have experienced dramatic consequences resulting from their alcoholism or drug problems, yet.
How Outpatient Can Work
No one ever would indicate that entering an outpatient treatment program somehow indicates that you are less than serious about your recovery. Your life circumstances are your own business.
Finances are one of the circumstances that can make outpatient treatment a more viable option. The simple fact is that inpatient treatment is a residential situation. Because you will be living at the treatment center, the cost is going to be higher.
However, keep in mind those aspects of inpatient treatment that you cannot get from an outpatient program before you make a final decision. If you do elect to enter an outpatient program, go about the program with the same vigor and intensity.
You will need to establish a strong support group for the time you are away from any outpatient activity. Meetings and group therapy are an important part of inpatient treatment. For outpatient to work, it is highly recommended that you take steps to include these in your program.
As long as you have a sincere desire to beat your alcohol or drug problems, outpatient treatment can work. You just have to follow the program guidelines no matter which treatment structure you choose, outpatient or inpatient.
If it has become apparent that you have a problem with alcohol or drug abuse, you’ve made the first step. The next is to seek help. A good way to help ensure that you get sober and stay sober is to enter a treatment program. Inpatient treatment facilities have a number of unique benefits.
However, you can build a foundation for sobriety by entering an outpatient treatment program, especially if finances are an issue. The most important thing you must do is make that first call for help. It may be a call that your life depends upon. Call us today at 833-610-1174.