Inpatient Vs. Outpatient: Which Mental Health Treatment Option Is Right For You?

Mental health is a rather sensitive treatment issue for many. What’s more, the path to recovery varies for each patient. Therefore, treatment facilities offer multiple therapy forms, each one catering to different patient needs. 

That said, the two main treatment types you will encounter will fall between inpatient and outpatient treatment. So, which of the two is best suited for you? Do you want a balance between receiving professional help and maintaining regular commitments? Or would you prefer to disconnect from your daily routines entirely and immerse yourself in a wholly therapeutic environment? 

Read on as we highlight the pros and cons of each mental health rehab option and the difference in inpatient vs outpatient so you can decide what’s right for your unique situation. 

An Overview of Inpatient Care

Inpatient care, or residential treatment, involves a patient checking into a mental health facility where they receive round-the-clock support. 

This approach is particularly beneficial for: 

• Patients at risk of harming themselves or others
• Those with a history of relapse or have not responded well to outpatient treatment.
• Those whose home environment triggers their condition.
• People who need a safe and controlled environment to recover fully.

An Overview of Outpatient Care

Outpatient treatment, on the other hand, involves patients attending scheduled sessions, but they do not get to stay overnight. Depending on the patient, this treatment model can range from daily visits to weekly or bi-weekly appointments. 

This type of care is best suited for those who:

• Have mild mental health issues.
• Can manage their symptoms with regular therapy and medication.
• Have a supportive environment at home.
• Need to maintain their daily routines, such as work or school.
• Do not require 24/7 care or detoxification.

Comparing Inpatient and Outpatient Care

Environment and Treatment Intensity

Inpatient programs offer a highly structured environment, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with severe mental health issues requiring close supervision. These programs typically consist of a combination of medication, individual and group therapy, educational sessions, and wellness activities. 

In contrast, outpatient treatment usually involves less intensive care, allowing patients to maintain their regular work or family schedules while receiving treatment.

Exposure to Stressors

Inpatient treatment provides a safe and controlled environment, free from everyday stressors that may exacerbate mental health issues. 

Conversely, outpatient treatment occurs in the context of the individual’s daily life, which can mean exposure to potential triggers or stressors. However, this also allows patients to apply coping strategies learned during therapy to real-world situations immediately.

Cost

Because inpatient mental health rehab provides more comprehensive services, including accommodation, you can expect it to cost more than outpatient treatment. However, many insurance plans cover mental health treatment, so this is a subject you might want to pick up with your insurer.  

Impact on Daily Life

Inpatient care can disrupt one’s daily life as it requires a full-time commitment, often in a facility away from home. This commitment can impact work, schooling, and family responsibilities. 

On the other hand, outpatient care allows individuals to continue their daily routines while receiving treatment, which can be less disruptive.

In Summary; Making the Right Choice 

The decision you make eventually between the two should be based on your unique situation, as well as what you’re trying to achieve from the mental health rehab treatment program. Nonetheless, you should discuss these factors with a health professional from your preferred mental health rehab to make the right decision as per your circumstances.