Drug and alcohol addictions are complex conditions. Substance abuse and addiction affect every part of a person’s life. It can impact their physical and mental well-being, relationships, and daily functioning.
Many people living with substance use disorder (SUD) require professional rehab programs to stop using addictive substances. They also need ongoing support to avoid relapse.
Before beginning a comprehensive treatment program, many people require medical detox support. Medical detox programs provide supervision, medical care, education, and other therapies. These therapies keep people safe and on track during withdrawal.
People have different needs during the detox process. There are inpatient and outpatient treatment programs that can help people navigate detox safely. But how do you know which type of treatment is right for you?
This article will explore what happens in inpatient and outpatient detox programs.
What you will learn:
- What to expect in outpatient programs
- What happens in inpatient or residential treatment
- The differences between inpatient and outpatient levels of care
- Signs that you need inpatient detox treatment
- Where to find a detox treatment facility
If you or someone you love struggles with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the Alamo Behavioral Health specialists to learn about our detox and relapse prevention programs. Reach out to verify your insurance, ask questions, or schedule an intake appointment.
What Happens in Detox?
Detoxing from drugs or alcohol can be very challenging. Many people experience uncomfortable or dangerous withdrawal symptoms when they stop using these substances. Withdrawal symptoms like cravings, nausea, insomnia, and tremors can increase the risk of relapse.
A medical detox program provides holistic support for a person’s body and mind during withdrawal. A rehab facility may offer inpatient and outpatient detox programs. Generally, detox programs include:
- Supervision and support
- Medical and mental health assessments
- Medications to reduce withdrawal symptoms and ensure safety
- Medically-supervised tapering programs
- Individual and group counseling
- Holistic therapies to calm the mind and body
Inpatient and outpatient programs offer critical supervision and treatment that can help people manage withdrawal symptoms and work toward long-term recovery.
What is the Difference Between Inpatient and Outpatient Detox Programs?
The primary difference between inpatient and outpatient detox programs is that inpatient programs provide round-the-clock support, and outpatient programs do not.
In inpatient detox programs, people live in the treatment facility while receiving care. They have continuous access to medical care and emotional support. They can focus all of their time and energy on their recovery.
Another benefit of inpatient detox programs is that people live in the controlled treatment center environment in the earliest stages of their recovery. This can reduce their exposure to triggers and reduce stress.
Inpatient programs provide more intensive support and higher levels of care. People in inpatient detox programs are more likely to complete detox and move on to other forms of treatment. After completing detox, they may engage in a partial hospitalization program (PHP) or an intensive outpatient program (IOP)
Outpatient detox programs provide more flexibility. People may attend treatment and therapy sessions daily or several times per week, as needed. This allows people to continue attending school, working, and taking care of other responsibilities.
Signs You Need Inpatient Detox
Each person has their own needs during addiction recovery. It is critical to get the right level of care during detox.
Here are some signs you require the intensive support of an inpatient detox program.
You are addicted to opioids or alcohol
People experiencing benzodiazepine and alcohol withdrawal may experience intense or dangerous withdrawal symptoms during detox, including seizures and hallucinations. These symptoms can increase the risk of a relapse or be life-threatening. Many addiction experts recommend round-the-clock supervision and access to treatment during opioid or alcohol withdrawal.
You do not have a stable living environment
People who do not have safe, stable housing can benefit from the supportive environment of an inpatient detox program. Inpatient detox programs provide support, security, and stability to people as they navigate the detox process.
You have significant medical or mental health needs
People with co-occurring mental health disorders or significant medical needs must seek inpatient detox support. Inpatient programs provide continuous supervision and access to treatment that can help people with co-occurring disorders have a safe, complete detox.
You have a severe SUD
If you have not been able to maintain your recovery in outpatient programs, you may benefit from an inpatient detox program. Some people with severe SUD require intensive support, a secure environment, and 24/7 access to treatment to complete detox and move forward.
Contact the Alamo Behavioral Health specialists to determine which level of care is best for your unique needs.
Find Detox Treatment Now
If you or someone you love needs support to detox safely, you are not alone. Find comprehensive, supportive detox programs at Alamo Behavioral Health. Contact our intake specialists to learn about our detox and treatment programs or to schedule an appointment.
