When you enroll in a substance abuse treatment program, you take the first step toward committing to a life of sobriety. In the beginning, you may feel eager to get better and to face your demons. However, as the days go by and you start feeling better, you may start feeling as though you are ready to leave rehab and return to your regular life. You may find yourself wondering how much longer your outpatient rehab program will last or if you really still need to be in treatment.
The length of outpatient rehab varies from one person to the next. Most people spend either 30, 60, or 90 days in an outpatient program. Further, outpatient may only be one step of your treatment program–you could spend some time on other levels of care like inpatient or PHP before transitioning to outpatient. How long outpatient rehab lasts is based on several individual factors, such as your progress in treatment so far and your individual treatment needs.
How Long Does Outpatient Rehab Usually Last?
There are short-term outpatient programs that last as little as 14 days and there are long-term, extended care programs that last six months or more. However, the vast majority of people stay in treatment somewhere in between these two extremes. As a general rule of thumb, most outpatient rehab programs last 30, 60, or 90 days depending on your unique needs.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, staying in treatment for an adequate amount of time is vital, and most people need at least 90 days (three months) of rehab to significantly reduce or completely stop their substance abuse.[1] After all, addiction is a chronic and progressive illness. Relapses can happen, but programs that last at least 90 days can help minimize this risk.
While it’s important to receive at least 90 days of care, you may not spend the full 90 days in an outpatient program. You may spend a month or two in a higher level of care before transitioning to outpatient. Or, if you have a less severe substance use disorder, you may participate in outpatient care for a couple of months before transitioning to an aftercare program. The length of rehab depends on your needs and your specific situation.
Factors That Affect the Length of Outpatient Rehab
There are many influential factors that determine how long outpatient drug rehab lasts. These vary from one person to the next and can also be fluid, meaning they change as a person moves through their treatment program. Key factors that influence the length of treatment include:
- The severity of your addiction
- Whether or not you need detox
- Your history with past treatment programs
- The level of motivation and willingness you demonstrate to stay sober
- The progress you’ve made in the treatment
- What treatment programs you’ve already completed
- Whether or not you have a solid sober support network
- Mental health conditions like depression and anxiety
- Your health insurance coverage
The best way to get an idea of how long you can expect to be in treatment is to have a substance abuse evaluation and work with your doctor or clinician to determine your care.
What Happens If You Leave Outpatient Rehab Too Early?
It is vital that you stay in rehab for the amount of time your therapist recommends that you do. Leaving an outpatient rehab program early can make you susceptible to relapse. Remember, you went to rehab because you couldn’t get sober on your own, and you accepted the fact that you need the help of others. This means you should also listen to suggestions pertaining to how long you should stay in outpatient rehab.
Addiction treatment centers have nothing to gain from keeping you in rehab longer than you need to be. There are other people who are desperate for the help you are receiving. It’s important to remember that your clinician has your best interests in mind, so if they say you need to stay in rehab longer, you should stay in rehab longer. Sacrificing a few months of your life to get better will pay off in the long run.
Find an Outpatient Rehab Program in West Palm Beach Today
Here at Mandala Healing Center, our outpatient rehab programs are custom-tailored to meet your individual treatment needs. As a result, the amount of time you spend in rehab is determined by your needs and your progress while in treatment. This is because we want to provide you with the comprehensive, complete care that you deserve.
If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction and ready to begin your recovery journey, you’ve come to the right place. Call now to see if our substance abuse treatment program is right for you.
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