I don't have experience with inpatient but have friends who do. They only went into inpatient because there was no other option but to go. They needed to get stabilized on meds and didn't have anyone to watch over them at home (they were sui). They then were transferred to outpatient program for depression. - that's when we met. I was in an outpatient program for 6 weeks. I was able to avoid inpatient because I was able to have someone 'watch me' 24/7 at home while I stabilized on the drugs. I loved the outpatient program I was in however I did look at a few other programs in my area first and wasn't a fan of them. They included court ordered people who really didn't want the help. The program I was in didn't allow any alcohol or substance abuse. The people in the group were really supportive and caring. Before I left the program they made sure I had a support person (therapist and psychiatrist) set up before I was discharged. The program was 4- 5 days a week and I went home to sleep and eat dinner.

I would shop around before committing to any facility. Have a family member with you and don't sign anything until you're sure you like the program.