Deciding to give rehab a try can be a difficult enough decision on its own. It’s unsurprising, then, that one of the first questions people have about the process has to do with how long it will last. Committing to a treatment program is a big step, and understanding what to expect can make it feel a bit less overwhelming.
While there’s no universal timeline, most rehab programs progress at around the same speed based on the level of care, the severity of the addiction, and the needs of the individual. This means that some people may benefit from a short-term stay of just a few weeks, while others might need a more extended approach to achieve long term recovery. In either case, the focus is less on the timing and more on the effectiveness of the program according to what the person needs.
By the end of this article, you’ll have a deeper understanding of:
- What rehab is
- The different types of rehab programs
- How the length of stay is determined in rehab
- Where to find support
If you or a loved one is considering going to rehab, know that you’re not alone. Lifetime Recovery offers personalized treatments tailored to your needs, lifestyle, and goals. Call us today to learn more about our programs, verify your insurance coverage, or ask any questions you might have. We’re here to support you at every step of the recovery process.
What Is Rehab?
Rehab, short for rehabilitation, is a type of treatment program that can help you when you’re struggling with drugs, alcohol, or other addictive substances. While the goal is to help you stop using, rehab is also meant to help you uncover the root causes of your addiction. Once you do so, you can develop healthier coping strategies for dealing with future stressors and staying sober long term.
Most rehab programs include a combination of:
- Medically supervised detox (if needed)
- Life skills training
- Mental health support
- Relapse prevention tools
- One-on-one and group therapy
- Aftercare planning and support
Whether you’re looking at attending an inpatient treatment center or receiving outpatient care, the structure and support rehab provides can be life-changing.
Different Types of Rehab and Their Duration
Rehab isn’t one-size-fits-all. Depending on your needs, you might spend a few weeks in treatment or several months. Here’s an overview of the most common programs types, along with their average treatment lengths:
Inpatient Rehab (Residential Treatment)
Inpatient rehab is the highest level of care.
- Description: You live on-site at a treatment facility with 24/7 support, structure, and access to medical and clinical staff.
- Usual length: 30, 60, or 90 days
- Best for: Individuals with moderate to severe addictions, especially those who have struggled with past relapses or need to get away from their home environment
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
A partial hospitalization program is similar to inpatient rehab, but without the residential requirement. It helps people transition from inpatient care and usually lasts less than a month.
- Description: Intensive, all-day treatment, usually 5–7 days a week for several hours a day, without overnight stays.
- Usual length: 2–4 weeks, sometimes longer depending on individual needs
- Best for: Those who need a structured routine (like inpatient care), but with the freedom to sleep at home
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
An intensive outpatient program (IOP) is a step-down from PHP. People attending IOP only may spend more time in the program, while IOP may be shorter for people who are transitioning from other levels of care.
- Description: Flexible, non-residential care that typically includes therapy sessions 3-5 times a week, usually at night
- Usual length: 8–12 weeks
- Best for: People transitioning from inpatient rehab or PHP, or those needing more structure than standard outpatient programs
Outpatient Treatment
The lowest level of care, outpatient, involves shorter treatment sessions designed to support individuals after higher levels of care.
- Description: You live at home and attend scheduled sessions several days a week, often while continuing work or school.
- Usual length: 6–12 weeks, or up to several months
- Best for: People with mild to moderate addictions who have a strong support system at home
Long-Term Residential Rehab
Some programs offer long-term treatment options. A long-term rehab is a live-in program that can last for several months, offering comprehensive support and life planning. Long-term addiction treatment programs last 6–12 months and are best for Individuals with long-standing substance use disorders, co-occurring mental health disorders, or multiple failed attempts at sobriety
Some rehab programs are even longer-lasting, up to two years or more. Meeting with a team of medical and mental health professionals can help you determine the length of time that’s right for you.
What Affects the Length of Stay in Rehab?
Since every person’s recovery journey looks different, the length of stay in rehab can depend on several factors, including:
- The severity of the substance use disorder
- The type of substance used
- Level of support from friends or family
- Willingness to participate and stay in treatment
- Past attempts at sobriety or rehab
- Co-occurring mental health conditions
- Number of treatment goals
- Physical health and medical history/needs
- Treatment techniques used
- Financial means and insurance coverage
The more comprehensive a person’s needs are, the longer their stay might be. While that may be discouraging to hear, it’s important to remember that longer stays often lead to better outcomes. Choosing a qualified facility with experienced staff can also improve the effectiveness of the program.
Start Your Healing Journey with Lifetime Recovery
Choosing rehab gives you a chance at a fresh start. Whether you’re in rehab for 30 days or two years, the right rehab center will meet you where you’re at and guide you toward the best program for you. At Lifetime Recovery, we understand that healing isn’t linear. That’s why we offer a range of flexible treatment plans, all rooted in evidence-based care and delivered by a compassionate, experienced team. No matter how long your recovery journey is, our team will help ensure that you never walk it alone.
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