Recognising you have a problem with the likes of drugs or alcohol is an important first step in getting your life back on track. However, from there it can feel a little like taking a step into the unknown.
There’s a lot to think about and it can be a good idea to get some support, speak to professionals and take some time to think what the right next steps for you are. Rehab is most certainly the right next step, but one of the questions people have, alongside the cost, is how long does it last?
The answer to that isn’t necessarily straight forward, with the lenght of rehab really depending on a variety of factors, including the type of addiction you are living with and the severity of it.
There’s no real one-size-fits-all approach, but you can start to understand a typical timeline to partially answer that question and give you some sort of expectation…
Typical Rehab Durations
Typically, you’ll find that rehab durations fall into a few different categories and it does depend on the type of rehab you go for. This can vary depending on how much you can afford to pay, as well as whether you want to go inpatient or outpatient.
Cost can often be a concern, but don’t worry about that just now, there are plenty of affordable drug rehab cost options out there, try to find what is right for you and do consult with medical professionals.
You’ll tend to find rehab durations are as follows:
7–14 Days (Detox-Only Programmes)
The first step is usually a detox of the substance and in some cases you may only want professional help with this. It is important to be medically supervised here, with detox programmes designed to help people safely withdraw from substances.
This isn’t a complete treatment, but it is the important first step. After that, you’re usually encouraged to enter a longer-term programme to learn about triggers and how to combat those, as well as the more psychological impacts of addiction.
28–30 Days (Short-Term Inpatient Rehab)
Perhaps the most common length of inpatient rehab is a month. Over that four weeks, you’ll receive a schedule of therapy, group work, medical support and planning that you’ll take into your life after rehab. This will help give you a routine and structure that allows you to tackle the outside world and its stresses more effectively.
60–90 Days (Extended Inpatient Programmes)
Some people do need longer stays though, which provides a more in-depth, therapeutic experience. IT gives people more time to build new coping strategies, stabilise emotionally and really get to the core of the underlying causes of addiction.
This is a period of time that’s often considered and recommended for those that have a history of relapse or have faced addiction over the long-term. This may also be the best option for those that have multiple mental health conditions.
Ongoing Support and Aftercare (Weeks to Years)
Recovery doesn’t end when you leave rehab. Ongoing aftercare—such as outpatient counselling, support groups, and sober living arrangements—can continue for months or even years. These services are crucial for preventing relapse and maintaining progress.
What to Anticipate During Rehab
Assessment and Individualised Planning
Upon entry, most programmes begin with a comprehensive assessment of physical health, psychological wellbeing, and substance use history. This helps create a personalised treatment plan suited to your specific needs and goals.
Structured Daily Routine
Expect a highly structured environment with scheduled therapy sessions, group discussions, wellness activities, and personal time. This routine helps establish stability, reduce chaos, and introduce healthier habits.
Therapy and Education
Rehab programmes often include a combination of evidence-based therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), trauma-informed care, and motivational interviewing, as well as educational sessions about addiction, relapse prevention, and emotional regulation.
Emotional Ups and Downs
Recovery can bring a wide range of emotions to the surface. You may feel vulnerable, overwhelmed, or even resistant at times. These reactions are normal and are usually explored in a safe and supportive therapeutic setting.
Peer Support and Community
Being around others with similar experiences can be incredibly powerful. Group therapy, communal living, and shared activities help reduce isolation and build a sense of belonging.
Choosing What’s Right for You
The ideal length of rehab depends on personal circumstances. While short-term programmes can be effective for some, others benefit from longer, more comprehensive support. The key is to seek help that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction, and to remain open to continuing care beyond the initial stay.
If you’re unsure which type of programme is right for you or a loved one, speak to a GP, addiction specialist, or treatment provider. They can help guide you towards options that best suit your situation.
