How Long Does Rehab Take?
There isn't a set period of time that applies to everyone when it comes to rehabilitation. Some addicts may need a 90-day stay at an inpatient treatment facility to truly find their path in recovery, whereas others may only need a 30-day program. It simply varies according to the addiction in question, the individual's history with addiction, dual diagnosis conditions, and the individual's specific physical, mental, emotional and spiritual needs.
Studies find that those who spend longer amounts of time in rehabilitation programs achieve better results of long-term sobriety. This is because more time spent at a treatment facility means more opportunity to focus on the root causes behind the addiction. If these issues are effectively addressed, the individual is more likely to be able to resist temptations to relapse. Drug and alcohol addiction treatment doesn't end after the patient exits the rehabilitation program, regardless of the length of stay. Recovery is an ongoing process that will continue for the rest of the patient's life. Long-term recovery often involves ongoing therapy, both in individual and group form, and attendance at 12-step meetings (AA, NA). Some patients find other activities that support their ongoing recovery, such as meditation, yoga, exercise or hiking. It's important to note that many addicts don't achieve perfect, lifelong recovery with one rehab stay. Relapse should not be viewed as a failure; instead, it should be seen as an obstacle to overcome on one's lifelong journey to sobriety. Relapse is an opportunity to reevaluate one's path and get back into a program that offers the support and help needed to maintain sobriety. Many addicts complete more than one stay in rehab before they are able to find their footing in their recovery journey. It's all part of the process.