Alcohol Rehab Timeline: How Long Does Recovery Take from Detox to Sober Living?

The Road to Recovery Starts Here

Let’s be honest- deciding to go to rehab is a big step. One of the first questions I hear from people considering treatment is, “How long is this going to take?”

And I get it. You have a life, responsibilities, and maybe even doubts about whether you really need rehab at all. But let me tell you this: the time you invest in recovery is worth it. For this article, we will focus on alcohol dependence.

There’s no magic number that applies to everyone. Some people need just a few weeks, while others take months or even years to fully heal. It depends on a few key factors, like how long you’ve been drinking, how severe your addiction is, and what kind of support system you have.

What I can tell you for sure is that recovery isn’t a one-and-done deal. It happens in stages, and each stage plays a crucial role in helping you build a sober, fulfilling life.

Let’s break it down.

Stage 1: Detox (5-10 Days)

What Happens During Detox?

If you’ve been drinking heavily for a while, stopping suddenly can be dangerous. That’s why medical detox is highly recommended—it helps you safely withdraw from alcohol and other substances while managing the symptoms that come with it.

Withdrawal Symptoms to Expect

Not everyone experiences withdrawal the same way, but common symptoms include:

· Anxiety, restlessness, irritability

· Insomnia or night sweats

· Nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite

· Shakiness, tremors, and increased heart rate

For severe cases, withdrawal can include:

· Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t real)

· Seizures

· Delirium tremens (DTs)—a life-threatening condition that causes confusion, fever, and extreme agitation

How Long Does Detox Last?

Mild withdrawal: 3-5 days
Moderate withdrawal: Up to 7 days
Severe withdrawal: 7-10 days (with medical supervision)
Once detox is complete, the real work begins—learning how to stay sober.

Stage 2: Inpatient Rehab

What Happens in Inpatient Rehab?

This is what most people picture when they hear “rehab”—a safe, structured environment where you focus entirely on recovery. It’s like pressing the pause button on life so you can heal.

Explore the benefits of inpatient alcohol rehab.

In inpatient rehab, you’ll get:

Daily therapy done in individual & group settings
Medical monitoring
Holistic treatments e.g., exercise sessions
Life skills training where you learn how to cope without alcohol

I once worked with a lady I’ll refer to as Ms. X, who had been addicted to alcohol for over a decade. She told me, “I thought rehab would be like a prison, but it was the first place I ever felt truly safe.” By the end of 90 days, she had a new perspective on life—and most importantly, a plan to stay sober.

How Long Does Inpatient Rehab Last?

Standard stay for alcohol use disorder: 90 days
Long-term rehab: 6+ months (for severe cases)

Stage 4: Aftercare & Long-Term Recovery (Lifelong Commitment)

What Happens After Rehab?

Completing residential treatment in a rehab doesn’t mean the journey is over. The first year of sobriety is often the hardest, which is why ongoing support is critical.

Long-term recovery often includes:

· Therapy & counseling (for relapse prevention)

· Sober living homes (for a structured transition)

· Support groups like AA or NA

· Healthy lifestyle changes (exercise, meditation, new hobbies)

What Affects How Long Rehab Takes?

No two recovery journeys are the same, but here are some factors that can influence treatment length:

· Severity of addiction (how long and how much you drank)

· Co-occurring mental health conditions (anxiety, depression, trauma)

· Support system (family & friends who encourage sobriety)

· Financial/insurance limitations (some programs cost more than others)

Final Thoughts: The Time You Invest in Recovery is Worth It

Here’s the truth: Recovery takes time, but every second is worth it.

I’ve seen people come into treatment convinced that change will be too difficult, and I’ve seen those same people walk out stronger, happier, and more in control of their lives than ever before.

So if you’re wondering, “How long does alcohol rehab really take?” my answer is: As long as it takes for you to heal.

And trust me—you are worth that time.