When someone you love has an addiction, it is hard to know what to do. There are many treatment options. Finding the right one can seem overwhelming. You’ve likely come across terms like “inpatient” and “outpatient” treatment. For residents of Mount Sterling, knowing the difference in inpatient vs. outpatient addiction treatment in Kentucky is key. But how do you know which one is right?
At Sterling Crossroads, we understand addiction. We know it affects families and communities, not just individuals. If your loved one has an addiction, we can help. Sterling Crossroads helps with making treatment decisions as a family. We offer outpatient addiction treatment to Mount Sterling families. Let us help you learn more about addiction care in Kentucky, right here in your community.
Understanding the two main levels of addiction care
Addiction treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all. People need different levels of support and care. The seriousness of their addiction, their mental and physical health, and their home situation determine the right treatment option.
Two of the most common types of treatment are:
Inpatient Treatment
This is also known as residential treatment. Inpatient programs require the person to live full-time at the treatment center. These programs offer around-the-clock care in a structured, controlled setting.
In Kentucky, inpatient programs are available. However, they can have long waitlists or be far from home, especially in rural areas.
Outpatient Treatment
Outpatient programs allow people to live at home while attending treatment. Treatment can be day or evening. These services can last from a few hours a week to daily sessions, depending on the program.
Outpatient programs in Kentucky can come in several forms:
- Standard outpatient therapy: 1–2 sessions per week.
- Intensive outpatient program (IOP): 3–5 days per week, often for several hours a day.
- Partial hospitalization program (PHP): Full-day treatment, usually 5 days a week.
What about an IOP in Mount Sterling, KY?
IOP stands for intensive outpatient program. It’s a step up from basic outpatient care but still allows the person to live at home. An IOP strikes a good balance between structure and flexibility. Learn more about our intensive outpatient program in Mount Sterling.
In many cases, an IOP can be as effective as inpatient treatment. However, IOPs are often less expensive and more flexible. Sterling Crossroads offers and intensive outpatient program right here in Mount Sterling. There is no need to travel to a bigger city like Louisville or Lexington.
Pros and Cons of Inpatient Treatment
Inpatient care can be the right choice for some. But it’s not for everyone. Here’s what to consider.
Pros
- 24/7 support: Staff are always available, which can be crucial during detox or early recovery.
- Safe environment: Being away from triggers and stressors at home can help someone focus fully on getting better.
- Structured schedule: Days are carefully planned with therapy, group work, meals, and rest.
- Access to detox services: Many inpatient programs offer medical detox, which is important for people with physical dependence.
Cons
- Time away from family: Your loved one will need to stay at the facility for 30 days or more, which can be hard for families—especially those with children or other caregiving roles.
- Higher cost: Inpatient care is usually more expensive. Even with insurance, there may be significant out-of-pocket costs.
- Limited privacy: Living with others in treatment means less personal space.
- Harder transition home: Going from full-time care to home life can be a tough adjustment, especially without ongoing outpatient support.
Pros and Cons of Outpatient Programs
Outpatient treatment can be a great choice for many people—especially those with strong support at home or who’ve already completed inpatient care.
Pros
- Flexibility: People can keep working, going to school, or caring for family while getting help.
- Lower cost: Outpatient programs tend to be more affordable and may be fully covered by insurance.
- Family involvement: Loved ones can often take part in therapy or education sessions.
- Real-life practice: Since clients stay in their home environment, they can immediately apply what they learn in therapy.
Cons
- Less supervision: There’s more personal responsibility. This can be risky for those with severe addiction or unstable home lives.
- Distractions and triggers:Staying at home means being near old habits, people, or places that can lead to relapse.
- Commitment required: Success in outpatient care depends on the person’s motivation to attend all sessions and follow the treatment plan.
How to decide what’s best for your loved one
Ask Yourself:
- Has my loved one tried outpatient care before and relapsed?
- Do they have a safe, stable place to live?
- Are they physically dependent on alcohol or drugs and in need of medical detox?
- Can they handle daily responsibilities while focusing on recovery?
- Are they motivated to change?
When Inpatient Might Be Best:
- Your loved one has a long history of addiction or multiple relapses.
- They have co-occurring mental health conditions.
- They’re at risk of harming themselves or others.
- They don’t have a safe or supportive home.
When Outpatient Might Be Enough:
- This is their first time seeking treatment.
- They have a strong family or social support system.
- They’re physically stable and not in need of detox.
- They’re motivated and committed to recovery.
You don’t have to make this decision alone. At Sterling Crossroads, we’re here for your family. We’ll help you weigh the options and choose the right path forward.
Start Healing with Local Outpatient Care at Sterling Crossroads
Sterling Crossroads offers high-quality outpatient addiction treatment right here in Mount Sterling, KY. Our programs are designed with families in mind. We know that healing doesn’t just happen in a treatment center. It happens in homes and in the community.
“I’ve had the best experience at Sterling Crossroads. The staff is wonderful and are there for you at low points and high points. I never worry about transportation because they provide transportation for several counties. They really care about your health and wellbeing. I love being a part of Sterling Crossroads.” – Google Review
Why families choose Sterling Crossroads:
- Local and convenient: We’re nearby, which means your loved one can get the care they need without leaving their home or support network.
- Evidence-based care: We use therapies proven to help people recover, including individual counseling, group therapy, and family sessions.
- Flexible schedules: Our IOP program is ideal for people who need support but can’t step away from work or school.
- Caring, qualified staff: Our team treats every person with respect, compassion, and dignity.
- Family support: We involve families at every step, helping you understand addiction and how to support recovery.
It doesn’t matter if your loved one is just beginning their journey or needs continued support after inpatient care. We’re here for your family. Learn more about addiction care in Kentucky at Sterling Crossroads.
Trust Sterling Crossroads to help you and your family make the right choice
Deciding on inpatient vs. outpatient addiction treatment in Kentucky is a big step. But you don’t have to have all the answers right away. The most important thing is to act. Every day your loved one doesn’t get help is another day addiction has the upper hand.
If you’re not sure what kind of care is best, reach out. Our team is here to listen and answer your questions. Sterling Crossroads supports your family in finding the right solution.
Contact us for personalized treatment guidance. Recovery is possible and it can start today.