How long in Rehab? This is a question I get asked a lot. The length of time you need to spend in rehab after your drug or alcohol detox. There are several factors which will determine the length of time you will need to spend in a rehab centre, after a drug or alcohol detox. These are as follows:
Does amount of alcohol or drugs you are taking determine the time you need in rehab?
Believe it or not, no. The amount of alcohol or drugs you are taking will not really have a bearing on the amount of time you will need to spend in a rehab centre. This is because the underlying issues, which are making you drink or take drugs, are the same. What I mean by that is, your issues do not change. The amount you drink or take will change over time. So if you catch it your substance abuse early, the issues are the same, but your intake of drugs or alcohol will be less than if you are left to carry on drinking nor talking drugs. So the will not determine the length of time you need in a rehab centre.
Does the underlying issues determine your time in rehab?
Yes. This is a major factor. If you are drinking or drug taking because you are bored, and your mates do it, then your underlying issues are not going to be as bad as someone who was abused as a child, or sexually assaulted as an adult etc. There is a lot more trauma in these cases, which will need addressing, and will take longer to address.
Do I need any rehabilitation really? – How long in Rehab?
Yes. I am sure you will want to know what has caused your addiction issues, so you don’t end up back there again. It is a fairly pointless exercise going through a detox to be back where you were a month later. Rehabilitation is a good thing to do. It helps you understand your own issues, and why you have them.
So how long do I need to spend in a rehabilitation centre?
Most clients will spend a minimum of 28 days in rehab. We do have other clients who will stay for 12 weeks and do secondary care, as they have a long addiction to drugs or alcohol. If you have relapsed, and have spent time in rehab before, you may just want a detox, and 7 to 10 days in a rehab centre to refresh what you have learnt before.
The duration of a rehab program can vary depending on several factors, including the individual’s specific needs, the severity of the addiction, the type of substance being abused, and the treatment approach used. While there is no fixed timeframe that guarantees successful recovery, the following are some general guidelines for rehab program durations:
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Short-term rehab: Short-term rehab programs typically last between 28 to 30 days. These programs are often focused on detoxification, stabilisation, and initial treatment. They provide a structured environment where individuals can receive medical and therapeutic support to start their recovery journey.
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Long-term rehab: Long-term rehab programs are more intensive and can last 60 days, 90 days, or even longer. These programs offer extended treatment and support to address the complex nature of addiction. Long-term rehab is often recommended for individuals with more severe or long-standing addictions, co-occurring mental health disorders, or those who have had unsuccessful attempts at recovery in the past.
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Residential rehab: Residential rehab programs provide 24/7 care and support in a residential setting. The duration of residential programs can vary, ranging from 30 days to several months. They offer a highly structured environment, combining various therapies, counselling, support groups, and holistic approaches to address all aspects of addiction.
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Outpatient rehab: Outpatient rehab programs offer flexibility, allowing individuals to live at home while attending therapy sessions and treatment on a scheduled basis. The duration of outpatient programs can vary, ranging from a few weeks to several months, depending on the individual’s needs and progress.
It’s important to note that the duration of rehab is just one part of the recovery process. Recovery from addiction is a lifelong journey that extends beyond the time spent in a formal treatment program. After completing rehab, individuals often continue their recovery through aftercare programs, outpatient counselling, support groups, and ongoing therapy to maintain sobriety and develop healthy coping strategies.
The most effective rehab program duration is individualised to meet each person’s unique needs. A comprehensive assessment by healthcare professionals or addiction specialists can help determine the appropriate duration and level of care needed for successful recovery.
Contact us
If you would like more information on rehabilitation, or anything else on this website, or to book a place in one of our residential rehab centres. Then call us on Tel: 07811 606 606 (24 hours). We will be glad to help you.
