How Long Does Addiction Treatment Take? What to Expect at Each Stage of Recovery

How Long Is Addiction Treatment?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The length of treatment depends on factors like:

  • What substances you’re using

  • How long and how often you’ve used them

  • Your physical and mental health

  • Whether you’ve been to treatment before

At Hygea Healthcare, we design every treatment plan around you—not the calendar. But understanding general timelines can help you prepare.

Get a personalized assessment today.


Average Length of Each Treatment Phase

Level of CareDurationPurpose
Medical Detox7–10 daysSafely manage withdrawal symptoms and stabilize
Residential Treatment30 days (or longer)Address root causes, build coping skills, and create a recovery plan
Outpatient Programs1–6 months+ (varies)Reinforce recovery while returning to daily life
Aftercare & SupportOngoingMaintain sobriety through community, therapy, and accountability

Longer treatment = better outcomes. According to NIDA, 90+ days is ideal for lasting change.


Why You Shouldn’t Rush Recovery

Addiction didn’t develop overnight—and recovery doesn’t happen overnight either.

Rushing through treatment can increase the risk of relapse. Our team focuses on helping you build a sustainable foundation so you leave feeling prepared—not just sober.

Explore our levels of care and facilities to see what’s right for you.


Can You Leave Early?

You can, but it’s not recommended. Many people start to feel better during detox or early in residential care and think they’re “cured.” But addiction is more than just physical—it’s psychological, emotional, and behavioral.

Leaving early often leads to:

  • Higher relapse rates

  • Unresolved mental health issues

  • Lack of coping tools for stress and triggers

We work with you to create a discharge plan that includes continued support—not a cold stop.


Treatment Doesn’t End When You Leave

Recovery is a lifelong process. That’s why we connect clients with:

  • Peer support networks

  • Therapy and medication management

  • Alumni groups and check-ins

  • Referrals to IOP or sober living if needed

The goal isn’t just to stop using—it’s to build a life worth staying sober for.

Contact us to learn how we support long-term recovery from day one.


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