Many alcoholism rehab programs are limited to 28 days of treatment. This short-term format requires therapy, recovery and behavior modification to be presented to the client in a streamlined format. For people who have suffered from alcohol addiction for years or who have complete rehab in the past and relapsed, a long-term extended treatment program offers the greatest opportunity for recovery and a smooth transition back to a life of sobriety.
In short-term alcoholism rehab, the client typically spends up to 2 weeks detoxifying. This leaves 2 weeks for emotional recovery and behavior modification before the client is discharged from the treatment program. Many issues can remain unsolved, increasing the chances of relapse.
Long-term rehab, usually takes place in a residential environment over a period of 6 to 12 months. This residential environment is often referred to as a therapeutic community since clients live in a communal setting. A therapeutic community provides an increasing degree of accountability and personal freedom that allows clients to slowly transition back to life in the real world. In 28-day programs, clients are restricted until they are released, making the return to everyday living much more difficult.
Long-term alcoholism rehab allows more time for therapy, allowing clients to explore the roots of their addiction. There is also time in long-term rehab to try different forms of