How Long Does Addiction Treatment Usually Last? Understanding Program Lengths

Substance use disorder (SUD) is a complex condition affecting millions of people in the United States. People living with SUD can overcome this condition by participating in treatment programs that address drug and alcohol misuse. 

People have very different needs during treatment, depending on the severity of their SUD and other factors. Addiction treatment centers typically offer several levels of care to meet different needs. People may attend inpatient treatment or participate in an outpatient treatment program.

But how long does substance use disorder treatment last? Generally, people remain in a treatment program as long as they need to address the roots of their substance use. Many factors can affect how long treatment lasts.

This article will explore how long substance use disorder treatment lasts. You will learn:

• The levels of care and therapies used to address SUD
• How long people typically stay in treatment
• Factors that can affect treatment length
• How to determine if you or a loved one requires SUD treatment
• Where to find comprehensive treatment plans, resources, and relapse prevention support

If you or someone you love struggles with substance misuse, you are not alone. Find the effective treatment and compassionate support you need at Blue Star Recovery. Contact our treatment team to learn about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment. 

What is SUD Treatment? Therapies and Levels of Care

Substance use disorder treatment provides individualized treatment plans to help people explore and overcome the roots of drug and alcohol misuse. There are several levels of care in SUD treatment, including:

• Medical detox programs
• Inpatient or residential treatment programs
• Partial hospitalization programs (PHP)
• Intensive outpatient programs (IOP)
• Outpatient treatment
• Aftercare/relapse prevention programs

Each type of treatment provides a different level of care. Inpatient and residential programs offer the highest level of care. These programs require participants to live in the treatment facility while receiving treatment. Treatment plans might include:

• Assessments and screenings
• Medication management
• Behavioral therapies
• Individual and group therapy
• Education, including relapse prevention and coping skills

Partial and intensive outpatient programs offer high levels of care while allowing people to live at home. People may attend several sessions per week, spending 20 hours or more engaging in therapies. 

Aftercare programs can help people maintain sobriety and stay active in recovery after completing a treatment program. 

Finding the right level of care to meet your needs is essential. Many people start the recovery process in an inpatient program, then transition to outpatient care when they’re ready. Before beginning treatment, people undergo an evaluation to determine which level of care is appropriate for their needs. 

Contact the Blue Star Recovery team to explore our programs or to find recovery resources. Schedule an appointment or ask questions by reaching out now.

How Long Does Treatment Last?

Substance use disorder treatment typically happens in stages. Each of these stages lasts a different amount of time. 

Here is a quick overview of the lengths of different stages of SUD treatment. 

Assessment

Substance abuse evaluations assess the severity of a person’s addiction, general health, existing resources, and more. This information can help a person’s treatment team determine the right level of care and course of treatment. This assessment typically lasts around two hours. 

Detox

A medically-supported detox program provides:

• Round-the-clock supervision and support
• Medications to reduce withdrawal symptoms
• Holistic therapies to soothe the mind and body
• Emotional support, including individual counseling and support groups

People typically spend between two days and a week in this level of care. 

Treatment

Treatment programs vary quite a bit in length. The length of treatment depends on a person’s health, severity of their addiction, and other factors. Generally, treatment programs last 30, 60, 90 days or more. People may spend just a few days in treatment or several months receiving care. 

Research suggests that attending a 90-day program or longer has the best outcomes. People in long-term treatment programs receive intensive treatment, learn skills, and have time to develop an effective support system. However, short-term programs can also be beneficial in addressing SUD.

Aftercare

Aftercare programs may last months or years, depending on a person’s needs. An aftercare program may include:

• Spending time in a sober living home
• Attending other types of SUD treatment
• Receiving regular mental health and medical care
• 12-step meetings and support groups

These and other activities support long-term recovery after completing a treatment program. 

Contact the Blue Star Recovery specialists to learn more about treating SUD. Explore your treatment options, ask questions, or schedule an intake by reaching out today. 

Find Comprehensive Treatment Now

Many factors can affect the length of stay in a SUD treatment program. Find the level of care and type of treatment to meet your needs at Blue Star Recovery. 

Contact our intake team now to learn about our programs or to schedule your first appointment. Don’t wait for the care and treatment you need to overcome SUD. Take the first step toward a healthier future by contacting Blue Star Recovery today.