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Difference Between Inpatient & Outpatient Programs

When you struggle with long-term drug or alcohol addiction, it leads to changes throughout your body. Many of these effects can evolve into lifelong physical and psychological struggles for those who do not seek detox and treatment at a professional rehab like Relevance Recovery. The first step towards recovery is acknowledging a harmful relationship with substances. While this may be a difficult step, one cannot fully immerse oneself in the healing process without understanding how ongoing substance abuse can lead to harmful effects on their emotional, physical, and spiritual health. By knowing the difference between outpatient and inpatient detox programs, you can find the best treatment for you.

The early days of your sobriety journey may begin with detox. The intensity and duration of detox or detoxification vary from person to person and based on the substances or substances used. For some, quitting may lead to few, if any, withdrawal symptoms. But for others, especially those withdrawing from certain drugs and alcohol, withdrawal can be complex and potentially dangerous. No matter what substances or substances you use, choosing to detox at a professional detox center can increase your chances of safely and successfully getting sober.

What is Detox?

Detox is the process of your body cleansing itself of any substances that remain in your system since your last dose or drink. Your body starts to detox when you stop using drugs or alcohol. As the minutes and hours since your last drink or dose pass, your body starts to learn how to function without substances present. When you are actively addicted, the way your brain and vital body systems operate changes to accommodate (and require) drugs or alcohol. In time, if you do not use or drink, you will experience cravings and other withdrawal symptoms that “tell you” you need to drink or use again. This circle of cravings and use leads to substance dependency to complete day-to-day tasks successfully.

Why is Detox Important in Recovery?

Although often unpleasant, detoxing is essential as it eliminates the effects that drugs or alcohol have on you, physically and psychologically. Without detox, you are at an increased risk for relapse when cravings or other unpleasant withdrawal symptoms occur. Detox is essential to your recovery because the process forces your body to learn how to function “normally” again. Without detox, it is impossible to actively engage in addiction therapy because withdrawal symptoms like cravings and other physical difficulties inhibit your ability to focus on getting well. Therapy is an essential addiction treatment tool. During therapy sessions, you will learn and practice the coping skills you will need to manage relapse triggers after completing treatment.

What is the Difference Between Outpatient and Inpatient Detox Programs?

Many people do not realize there are different types of detox programs. At an outpatient detox program, you can seek help to detox from substances during the day while remaining home with family and loved ones at night. Before choosing outpatient detox, it is important to consider your needs as outpatient treatment might not be the best option for everyone. Outpatient detox works best for those with a stable, substance-free living arrangement as outpatient detox may lead to a higher potential for encountering relapse triggers. Also, outpatient detox is not suggested for someone with an addiction to opioids, alcohol, or benzodiazepines, as the risk for severe and potentially life-threatening withdrawal symptoms is much higher with these substances.

Inpatient detox programs occur at an addiction treatment facility. These programs require you to stay at the facility throughout detox and addiction treatment. As noted above, certain circumstances may suggest inpatient detox is a more effective and potentially safer detox option. It is also vital to discuss your treatment needs with your primary care provider or medical professional as they will help determine if outpatient or inpatient detox is appropriate.

How to Find Comprehensive Detox Near Me

If you struggle with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, seeking help to safely detox before beginning a comprehensive addiction treatment is essential to achieving lasting sobriety. Because there are different types of detox programs and several treatment options, it is important to find the program that best suits your needs and goals as you focus on healing from the effects of addiction. Our skilled and compassionate team at Relevance Recovery is here to help you choose the best path for you. Contact our admissions team today to learn more about our detox center in Freehold, New Jersey.

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