The decision to check yourself into an alcohol rehab program will be one you will be proud of for the rest of your life. But it isn’t always easy to choose the right program for your needs. There are quite a number of things you will want to keep in mind if you need an alcohol rehab program for yourself or your loved one. Remember, everyone is different when it comes to their addiction and what they need to get better. Similarly, you will not find a one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to rehab. Because of this, you will come across various programs that last different lengths. When you are wondering how long most alcohol rehab programs last, read on to learn more.
The most common timelines for treatment
In general, most alcohol rehab centers last from 28 to 90 days. The three common lengths for inpatient programs are:
- 30-days
- 60-days
- 90-days
However, rehab doesn’t end when the program does. Many patients choose to continue participating in extended programs. These include outpatient care facilities, such as sober living arrangements and 12-step programs.
How long does detox take for most patients?
The very first step you will have to take is detox. Alcohol withdrawal can easily produce life-threatening withdrawal symptoms, so it will always be a positive choice to pick a medical setting when you need to go through detox. Again, the length of time you will need to detox from alcohol will depend on a number of issues, such as:
- How old you are
- Your weight
- Your physical health and well-being
- How long you have been drinking
- The amount you drink
- If you have tried to detox before
Withdrawal symptoms can start within four to six hours from your last drink, especially for heavy drinkers. Over the next 48 hours, these symptoms will begin to worsen. At 72 hours, withdrawal symptoms will be at their peak. You can expect the process to last for at least two weeks or more. In fact, many heavy drinkers have experienced minor symptoms for a month or more.
This is why most alcohol detox centers provide programs that last at least two weeks. For many patients, staying in treatment for a month or more will be highly encouraged. Once you check into the clinic, you’ll begin immediate treatment for your withdrawal symptoms. Many patients will be given medication to keep the worst of the cravings and symptoms at bay. You will also be strongly encouraged to begin therapy as soon as you feel you are able.
Inpatient alcohol rehab – how long will it last?
In general, patients who check into an alcohol rehab program for a longer period of time are associated with much better results. According to studies, patients who stay for longer treatment sessions will be less likely to relapse once the program is over. As a result, a patient dealing with alcohol abuse should always get into an inpatient rehab program for as long as possible.
During inpatient treatment for alcohol abuse, you will be required to stay at the facility under constant monitoring and supervision. You will attend detox in the beginning while integrating yourself into the various therapy sessions. During the day, you can expect intensive private and group therapy sessions. This includes behavioral and dual diagnosis therapy. It’s hard to pinpoint the exact timeline you will be in therapy for. Again, most programs run from 28 days to three months, depending on the severity of your addiction.
What about outpatient programs?
Shorter programs, those that last for up to 30 days, are recommended for patients with milder addictions. They are also better for patients who have ongoing support at home and a sober place to live. Some outpatient programs are more useful for patients who are unable to commit to a longer length of care. They are less intense and invasive, but they do have many perks.
An outpatient program allows patients to receive counseling sessions a few hours a week. As an outpatient client, you will not have to stay overnight in the facility. These programs may last for a few weeks to a few months depending on the severity of your addiction.
It’s difficult to say how long your alcohol detox and rehab program will last. You can count on anywhere from a few weeks to a few months if you want to fully benefit from treatment. When you are ready to receive the help you need for your addiction, we are here for you. Give us a call at 844-903-2111 to learn how we can help.