The growing public health crisis of addiction in America has led to the critical need for professional behavioral health treatment. Those struggling with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions require skilled, experienced behavioral health specialists to help break the cycle of addiction. For many, the greatest obstacle is admitting they need help, but once they do, questions about rehab and treatment arise, such as “How long is rehab?” or “How long does rehab last?”
Santé Center for Healing in Argyle, Texas, has over 25 years of experience treating addiction. Our drug addiction rehab is tailored to each client’s individual needs and recovery goals.
How Long Is Rehab?
The answer to that question will depend on the individual client. Addiction is personal, and everyone’s path to substance use and how that addiction impacted their life is unique. Some common questions that can determine how long does drug rehab last include the following:
- How long has the individual been using substances?
- Are there co-occurring mental health conditions that require treatment?
- Does the individual have a robust support system at home, or will they need additional time in sober living after rehab?
- Is this the first time seeking treatment, or have there been previous attempts at recovery?
All of these factors play a role in determining the duration of drug rehab.
The Continuum of Care for Addiction Treatment
Most addiction treatment centers follow a continuum of care as recommended by trained behavioral health specialists. Again, the needs of each individual client will determine what is necessary, but in general, there are several stages, each with different levels of structure, intensity, accountability, and duration.
Detox
Detox, or detoxification, is the first stage in the continuum of care for addiction treatment. It involves safely managing the physical symptoms of withdrawal that occur when an individual stops using substances. The primary goal of detox is to clear the substance from the body while providing medical and psychological support to ensure the client’s safety and comfort. The length of detox varies depending on the substance used and the individual’s history of use, but it typically lasts from a few days to a week. In some cases, it may take longer, especially if multiple substances are involved or if there are significant medical or psychological issues that need to be addressed.
Residential Treatment
Residential treatment, also known as inpatient rehab, is a highly structured and intensive form of addiction treatment. Clients reside at the treatment facility, where they receive round-the-clock care and support. This stage of treatment focuses on addressing the underlying causes of addiction through a combination of evidence-based therapies and holistic approaches. The length of residential treatment varies depending on the individual’s needs but typically ranges from 28 days to several months. The extended duration allows clients to fully engage in the therapeutic process, develop coping skills, and build a strong foundation for long-term recovery in an environment free of distractions, triggers, or temptations.
Outpatient Treatment
Outpatient treatment offers a flexible and less intensive option for individuals who have completed residential treatment or those with less severe addictions. It allows clients to live at home and continue with their daily responsibilities while attending therapy sessions and receiving support.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
An IOP requires clients to participate in treatment for a few hours a day, typically three to five days a week. An IOP strikes a balance between accountability and flexibility, allowing individuals to work or attend school while receiving treatment. The duration of IOP can vary but often lasts several weeks to a few months, depending on the client’s progress and treatment goals.
Outpatient Program (OP)
A traditional outpatient program is the least intensive form of outpatient care. Clients attend therapy sessions once or twice a week for an hour or two. This level of treatment provides the greatest flexibility and is suitable for those with a strong support system and a lower risk of relapse. OP can be a longer-term option, often serving as a step-down from more intensive levels of care or as ongoing support to maintain recovery over time.
Aftercare Support
Aftercare support is a crucial component of the addiction recovery process, providing ongoing resources and guidance to help individuals maintain their sobriety and prevent relapse.
- Transitional living programs, also known as sober living homes, offer a supportive and structured environment for individuals transitioning from residential treatment back to everyday life. These programs typically involve living in a supervised home with other recovering individuals, promoting accountability, and providing essential life skills training. The duration of stay in transitional living can vary, often lasting from a few months to a year, depending on individual needs and progress.
- Alumni programs offer continuous support and connection for those who have completed their formal treatment. Through regular meetings, events, and activities, alumni programs foster a sense of community and belonging, which can be instrumental in sustaining long-term recovery.
The duration of aftercare support, including participation in alumni programs and accessible transitional living, can extend indefinitely, offering a sustained network of encouragement and resources throughout a person’s recovery journey.
The total duration of rehab and treatment will depend upon the individual and their recovery needs and goals. Still, the outcome should be the same: a life of sobriety with plenty of supportive resources.
Contact Santé Center for Healing Today for Drug Addiction Rehab
If you or a loved one is struggling with a substance use disorder, reach out to Santé Center for Healing online or call 866.238.3154. Our experienced, compassionate team can provide tailored treatment plans and a continuum of care specific to your needs. Don’t wait; call today.
