How Long Does Drug Addiction Recovery Typically Take?

The length of time that it takes to graduate from a drug addiction recovery program depends on the type of program that a person enters into. In addition, the length of the program depends on the involvement of the person as well as the resources that are available. Sometimes, substance abusers will go through assessments and detox programs before actually entering into a treatment program. When going through these things, this will of course add onto the time that it takes to complete the rehab program.

 

Detox Programs

Some people consider detox programs to be rehab programs in and of their selves. The average detox program takes anywhere from three to 15 days to complete. Most times, detox programs are carried out under the supervision of a medical professional. The purpose behind these programs is to make sure a substance abuser withdrawals from his or her choice of drugs without enduring severe medical complications. In the event that critical complications do arise, the person is usually then transported to a hospital to finish detoxing. The two worst drugs to detox off of include alcohol and opiates. Oftentimes, people will endure painful withdrawal symptoms, including seizures depending on the severity of their prior usage.

 

Outpatient Programs

Outpatient programs come in many forms. Some of them last for seven days. Some of them last for three or more years. Outpatient programs are very advantageous for those people who have successfully finished a short-term or long-term rehab program.

 

Short-Term Rehab Programs

After detoxing, a person will then enter into a drug rehab program. A short-term program tends to last anywhere from 30 to 90 days. During the program, a person will live in a structured environment. The living facility may possibly be a half-way house, a medical facility or in living quarters that the rehab program makes available for the person. Most times, short-term rehab programs have anywhere from 15 to 50 attendees at any given time. Not every one has to begin the program at the same time, meaning new people can enter into the program at any time while others will be graduating. There is much to learn during a short-term rehab program, and being that the program only lasts one to three months, it is imperative that a substance abuser be willing to learn everything he or she can.

 

Long-Term Rehab Programs

Another type of rehab program that can be attended is a long-term program. Generally, a long-term program will last six months or longer. Many long-term rehabs come in the form of half-way houses. These types of facilities provide attendees with much needed education relating to addictions and overcoming them, but they also allow the attendees to work and go to school while finishing their rehab programs. They also provide a structured environment for the attendees to live in; however, there are many rules and restrictions that have to be adhered by. Breaking any rules can result in a person being kicked out of the program. Long-term programs are very advantageous for those people who have been suffering from an addiction for an extended amount of time. META: Most times, short-term rehab programs have anywhere from 15 to 50 attendees at any given time. There is much to learn during a short-term rehab program.***152 CHARS***