What Is the Average Length of Stay in Drug Rehab?

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What Is the Average Length of Stay in Drug Rehab?

a group talks about the average length of stay in rehab

Addiction rehab is one of the best ways to start a sustainable recovery journey. Everyone with addiction has a different experience with substance use and will have unique experiences in treatment and long-term recovery. Some people make a lot of progress in 30 days of rehab, while others benefit from 90 days of treatment or more.

How long does rehab usually last?

There are different levels of addiction rehab, including detox, inpatient, and outpatient programs. The amount of time people spend in these programs can vary greatly. Generally, though, rehab lasts from about 30 days to six months.

  • 30-day programs: These focus on withdrawal management and basic recovery skills. These programs tend to suit people who are more stable, as well as those looking for an initial commitment.
  • 60-day programs: Such programs provide extra time to work on emotional and psychological issues while practicing new coping skills and techniques.
  • 90-day programs: These tend to serve people who need more time stabilizing and more support for their mental health. The extra time allows for deeper work on underlying patterns and building habits that last outside treatment.
  • Extended programs (6+ months): Some people need the structure of extended treatment to create a solid foundation for recovery.

If you’re not sure what type of care you may need or how long you might need it for, we can help. Get in touch with a Red Oak admissions consultant by messaging us online now.

How can I know how long my treatment will last?

Your rehab experience should set you up for a successful, sustainable recovery journey. Looking for help is difficult, but it’s worth it. Several things will play a role in how long your treatment might last, including:

  • Severity of addiction: If you’ve been using drugs for a while—or if you’ve had heavy drug use—you may benefit from longer treatment.
  • Co-occurring disorders: Learning to manage your mental health can help you reduce the risk of relapse, and integrated treatment may take longer.
  • Individual progress: You’ll work at your own pace during rehab. The goal is success, not to speed through it. If you need more time, that’s OK.
  • Family support: When you have a strong support network, it can help you make progress more quickly.
  • Health and wellness: Addiction takes a toll on your physical health, too. Becoming healthy may take longer if you’ve been using substances for a substantial amount of time.
  • History of relapse: Relapse is a normal part of recovery. If you’ve relapsed before, your treatment length may be adjusted, depending on your progress.

Your time in drug rehab is one where you can work on yourself and your relationships, learn new coping mechanisms, and develop healthy habits. The recovery journey requires patience and determination, and the benefits are life-changing.

Is there a benefit to staying in rehab longer?

It depends. One thing is certain, though: rehab programs that offer support past detox can give you a better start to recovery.

For some people, longer programs (usually 90 days or more) offer a few clear benefits:

  • Thorough assessment and care: Your needs will evolve, even in rehab. As you make progress and encounter new challenges, your care will be adjusted to support you as you need.
  • Skill practice: Practicing your skills is especially valuable if you’ve relapsed before, have a lot of toxic relationships, or are having a hard time with your support network.
  • Relapse prevention: Recognizing why you started using drugs in the first place gives you a chance to spot new triggers, which can prevent relapse. New triggers will arise, and you’ll have to learn how to manage them.
  • Peer and staff relationships: If you have difficulty opening up when you first start treatment, extra time can help you become more comfortable with the staff.

You may not need the structure of a longer rehab program. Don’t hesitate to talk with our compassionate admissions staff (and your support network) about your expectations for treatment and ask any questions you have about the process.

What lasts longer, inpatient or outpatient rehab?

The type of treatment you attend might have less impact on how long your rehab experience lasts. Your unique needs will be more important overall. There’s no prescribed length of treatment for any level of care.

Inpatient detox programs typically only last for a few days to stabilize someone who has quit using drugs, but usually transition clients into a residential program that might last a month or more. Outpatient programs, especially those with supportive housing, may last longer, providing a more immersive experience where clients can progress at their own pace.

How will Red Oak determine my length of treatment?

Red Oak knows that every man we help will have a unique recovery journey. Treatment length is determined based on each client’s specific needs and progress. Our licensed clinicians conduct a thorough assessment upon intake to determine the most appropriate level of care for the client.

When you call us, we’ll talk about how long you’ve struggled with drugs, alcohol, or your mental health, and the severity of your symptoms. We’ll also discuss any previous attempts at treatment and any co-occurring disorders. This information helps us determine the best course of action for your recovery. From there, we can determine your treatment plan and how long you can expect to stay at our North Carolina campus.

What happens after treatment?

Recovery doesn’t end when treatment is complete; it’s a lifelong journey. We will support you in maintaining lasting sobriety and emotional well-being every step of the way. Red Oak provides diverse alumni programs. Your treatment team will also help you create custom-tailored aftercare and relapse prevention plans to ensure you stay on track in your recovery. These might include ongoing therapy sessions, referrals to reputable health specialists, and support group meetings.

In our alumni program, you’ll discover connection, encouragement, and fellowship among other men in recovery.
We host frequent events, offer mentorship opportunities, and give you access to a network of supportive peers in recovery to ensure you never have to walk this path alone.

Get in touch with Red Oak Recovery® now and reclaim your life

Red Oak Recovery® provides day and day/night alcohol addiction and drug rehab programs with supportive housing just outside of Asheville, NC. At our tranquil and welcoming campus in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, you can find support from supportive and compassionate licensed clinicians and like-minded peers entering their journeys to recovery.

Find out how long your rehab experience might be by getting in touch with us. You can call 828.382.9699 or contact us online now.