How Long Does Alcohol Rehab Usually Take?

Many people would attest that alcohol, not marijuana, is the real gateway drug. For many, it’s the very first intoxicating substance they take at a young age, and perhaps because of its legal status, is the second most abused substance after tobacco. Those are just some of the reasons alcohol rehab could be a long, grueling journey. 

That then begs a real question: how long does alcohol rehab usually take? Will it be an ongoing process or will you be able to get what you need in a quicker period of time? 

The Four Main Phases of Alcohol Rehab

Alcohol rehab tends to follow four separate phases. They include: 

Phase 1: Assessment

Also referred to as the “intake” or “treatment initiation” phase, the assessment phase involves meeting with a professional to discuss treatment options. Medical examinations, along with a psychological and psychosocial assessment, are also part of this phase. 

This initial phase helps to build a foundation for the rest of your treatment. The data from your assessment will be used to determine your treatment plan.

Phase 2: Detox

This could be referred to as “the early abstinence phase.” The detox phase may also be considered to be the toughest one of all four due to withdrawal symptoms. For people who have developed a psychological dependence, this could really be an uphill battle, to say the very least. 

The professionals at a detox facility will do everything in their power to help guide you through detox and withdrawal safely, securely, and comfortably. 

Phase 3: Abstinence maintenance

Once a patient successfully completes about 90 days of continuous abstinence from toxic substances, they shift to maintaining that. That usually means developing strategies that would help them implement what they’ve learned in the early abstinence phase to take into other areas of their lives.

Phase 4: Long-term recovery

This phase is all about learning strategies to live a healthier, happy life and engaging in social activities that don’t involve having a drink. At this point, the patient’s priority is more than just about staying sober, but also the betterment of their overall well-being for a long time to come. 

How Long Does Alcohol Rehab Usually Take? 

The answer to this question will depend on the type of rehab program. Inpatient programs are much more extensive. There, patients will be under constant supervision. Often, they’ll also be required to join 12-step support groups and other forms of therapy. Usually, this process takes up to 30 days. 

Outpatient programs, on the other hand, are different. These usually involve a few hours of counseling and therapy for about 2-5 days each week. Those programs can last from one to six months, depending on the patient’s needs. 

A Reliable Alcohol Rehab Facility For Every Patient

If you happen to be looking for a reliable rehab facility in the Granada Hills area in Los Angeles, Believe Detox Center can help. It offers comprehensive programs beginning from detox up to aftercare. Whether you’re struggling with alcohol or other hard substances, this facility can help you out. If you’re ready to take that first step, call us at (818) 308-3118.