Drug rehab programs were created to help people overcome addiction and substance use disorders and achieve long-term sobriety. Examples of some of the earliest, formal rehab programs include the first hospital in the U.S. designed for alcohol rehab that opened in the 1860s and two hospitals opened by the U.S. government in the 1930s for drug addiction. Despite being around for close to 200 years, drug rehab programs continue to evolve the more we research and learn about substance use disorders (SUDs) and addiction.
This blog provides an overview of drug rehab program lengths, explains some of the factors that may contribute to a person’s stay, and discusses the importance of aftercare and continued support. It’s important to note that drug rehab programs are not “one size fits all,” and the length of stay in rehab will be different for everyone.
What Lengths of Drug Rehab Programs Exist?
Drug rehab programs typically last for up to a month (short-term), 60 to 90 days, or 6 to 12 months and longer. Here is a brief overview of how long drug rehab programs are and their characteristics.
Short-Term Programs
- Duration: up to 30 days
- Primary focus: detox and stabilization
- Appropriate for: those looking for a starting point prior to longer treatment options or for people with more mild substance use disorders (SUDs)
60- to 90-Day Programs
- Duration: two to three months
- Primary focus: detox, stabilization, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), behavioral health therapy, and preparation for the future
- Appropriate for: people experiencing more severe addiction, co-occurring disorders, and who would benefit from more time for behavioral therapy treatments and to address underlying issues
Long-Term Programs
- Duration: 6 to 12 months and longer
- Primary focus: long-term drug rehab programs often include residential treatment followed by sober living arrangements and outpatient support
- Appropriate for: those with severe addiction, co-occurring disorders including mental health disorders, and who may have struggled with addiction for a long time and relapsed
What Factors Can Influence the Length of a Drug Rehab Program?
Everyone’s sobriety journey is unique, and it is best not to compare your or a loved one’s path to anyone else. Several factors can influence how long drug rehab programs last, and you should always do what is best in your unique situation. Some of the more common factors in the length of a drug rehab program include:
- Severity of Addiction: Long-term addiction and severe SUDs may need more time to achieve sobriety.
- Type of Substance: Not all substances are created equal, and detox and rehab periods are likely to vary by substance due to withdrawal challenges.
- Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders: The presence of mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and more are likely to lengthen the treatment process.
- Progress in Treatment: Drug rehab programs are tailored to meet the individual needs of the participant. This means that timelines may be flexible and can vary from person to person to ensure long-term success.
Aftercare and Continued Support
The transition from drug rehab programs to aftercare services is critical for participants to achieve lasting sobriety. Several resources and treatment options can help prevent relapse, such as outpatient therapy, support groups, and sober living arrangements. Skills and tools learned while in drug rehab programs are also very useful, such as stress management techniques, strategies for healthy communication, and coping skills. This stage of treatment may last months and even years, depending on a person’s needs.
Drug Rehab Programs at Buddy’s Ranch
At Buddy’s Ranch, we believe everyone’s journey to recovery is unique, and our caring therapists and counselors are here to help you or your loved one along the way. We offer detox, inpatient, intensive outpatient, therapy support, and more. We are here to help you or your loved one find healing. If you want to learn how judgment-free care in an environment of empathy and compassion can help you on your path, please contact us today.