Many people considering addiction treatment want to know how long the process takes. The question underscores the urgency and desperation many feel about starting recovery. Traditionally, the answer has been a 30-day program – a one-size-fits-all solution that may not necessarily align with everyone’s needs and experiences. Experts from the National Institute on Drug Abuse advocate for longer, more comprehensive treatment to ensure better outcomes.
The Case for Longer Drug Rehab Programs
Addiction is profoundly personal; each person follows a unique road to recovery. While a 30-day program might provide enough time to complete detox and learn about the earliest phases of sobriety, a month’s stay usually only scratches the surface of the underlying causes of substance misuse and co-occurring mental health issues.
You may want to consider staying in residential drug rehab longer than 30 days for reasons like these.
- Depth of treatment: One month in rehab might barely begin to uncover the root of your addiction and any co-occurring mental health issues. Extended programs allow you to explore these issues in-depth for a more thorough healing process.
- Sobriety stability: For many, a longer stay in rehab solidifies the foundation of sobriety, equipping you with the tools and confidence needed to live outside the supportive structure of a treatment facility.
- Relapse prevention: You may encounter unexpected triggers and other challenges in transitioning back to everyday life. Leaving drug rehab after only 30 days can jeopardize your stability and undermine your resolve, increasing the risk of relapse.
Benefits of Extended Addiction Treatment
Longer drug rehab programs offer several advantages that can significantly impact your success in recovery.
- Comprehensive healing: An extended stay will let you work through the physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of your substance use disorder for a holistic experience.
- Personalized care: When you spend more time in treatment, you can receive therapy tailored to your specific needs and goals, offering a customized path to recovery.
- Developing life skills: Longer programs provide ample opportunity to learn and practice new coping skills that are crucial for managing real-world stress and triggers.
- Building a support network: You can form new friendships during your time in drug rehab, creating a support network that can be invaluable after completing the program.
Making the Right Choice for You
Deciding how long to stay in treatment is a critical decision you should only make after carefully considering your goals, progress and readiness to return to daily life. At Hemet Valley Recovery Center & Sage Retreat, we understand the importance of personalized treatment plans and offer various specialized levels of care to meet you where you are.
Sobriety is not a sprint; it’s a marathon that requires patience, perseverance and a sturdy foundation to set you up for success. While a traditional 30-day rehab program might be a starting point, it’s impossible to overstate the benefits of a longer stay in an inpatient facility.
Choose a program that aligns with your needs to invest in a lifetime of sobriety and well-being. Contact our ASAM-accredited facility to speak to addiction specialists who can provide guidance based on your situation.
