How Long Does Inpatient Rehab Last?

Treatment of any length is a positive first step in the right direction for individuals who want to become healthier, clean, and addiction-free. Choosing inpatient rehab over outpatient rehab gives patients 24/7 access to medical care and support, as well as no exposure to drugs, alcohol, or negative influences. The length of most inpatient rehab programs generally last between 28 and 90 days, but can be longer based on patients’ needs and personal preferences.

If you or someone you care about is struggling with substance abuse and addiction, understand there are several inpatient rehab centers in your area that can help.

Call our 24/7 confidential helpline at 800-256-3490 to learn more about addiction treatment centers that can guide you or your loved one to sobriety.

Choosing An Inpatient Program Length

The medical staff will help choose your treatment length after your intake assessment.

The length of the inpatient rehab program chosen should depend largely upon the patient’s addiction status and history with addiction. For instance, individuals who have gone to rehab and relapsed several times in the past may benefit from long-term recovery programs of between 90 and 120 days or more. On the other hand, those who struggle with minor addictions may be able to achieve sobriety within 28 days.

At the time of intake and assessment, the medical staff at a rehab center can help patients determine the appropriate program length based on their treatment needs. Doctors can make recommendations and consult with patients to develop a recovery plan and timeline. Most inpatient rehab centers pride themselves on offering multiple treatments and solutions for addiction, versus a one-size-fits-all approach that may not work for all recovering addicts.

Treatment outcomes for inpatient rehab programs are more successful when patients participate for a minimum of 90 days, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. This is mainly because long-term recovery programs allow more time for addicts to address and overcome the root causes driving their addictions. Long-term recovery programs also provide addicts with the extra time needed to practice sober and healthy living.

First Steps of Inpatient Addiction Treatment

Most inpatient treatment programs follow the same steps regardless of program length. Patients begin with intake and assessment, followed by detoxification, then counseling and therapy sessions that explore and address the underlying causes of addiction.

At intake and assessment, rehab staff reviews a patient’s medical history and evaluates the addiction type and severity. Patients are also evaluated for mental health conditions, or co-occurring disorders, which can be treated during counseling and therapy along with addiction. Rehab staff will develop one or more customized treatment plans for patients based on the assessment, and make recommendations on program length.

The Advantages of Luxury Rehab Centers

Detoxification generally lasts between three and 14 days or longer, depending on the severity of a patient’s addiction and on the amount of time it takes their body to detox. Some addictions require around-the-clock medical supervision during detox, since substances such as benzodiazepines can cause dangerous withdrawal symptoms like seizures. Fortunately, the benefit to choosing inpatient rehab programs is having 24/7 access to medical care.

After completing detoxification, patients benefit from treatments that may include cognitive behavioral therapy, ongoing pharmacotherapy if necessary, and relapse prevention training. Those whose family relationships suffered as a result of addiction can participate in family counseling to mend ties, while those reentering society after long battles with addiction can attend career development training to prepare for their futures.

If you are struggling with addiction and have questions about inpatient rehab centers, call our 24/7 confidential helpline at 800-256-3490. Our caring addiction specialists will help you find local inpatient rehab centers in your area devoted to helping you overcome substance abuse.