Addiction treatment is a coordinated plan that may include medications, behavioral therapies (e.g., counseling), and recovery supports to help people stop or reduce substance use, manage withdrawal, treat co‑occurring conditions, and return to healthy functioning at home, work, and in the community. Addiction is chronic and manageable; treatment helps people sustain recovery rather than “cure” the condition outright.

Duration is individualized, but research shows outcomes improve when people remain in care long enough. Evidence indicates most individuals need at least 3 months (90 days) of treatment to significantly reduce or stop use, with longer engagement often yielding better results.

Detox is short‑term medical management of withdrawal and stabilization. Rehab (residential or outpatient) follows detox and focuses on therapies, skills building, treating co‑occurring conditions, and planning aftercare to sustain sobriety.

It varies by substance and health status, but many acute withdrawal syndromes last several days to about a week. For example, alcohol withdrawal typically begins within hours, peaks at 1–3 days, and resolves in ~5–7 days for many people. Some symptoms can linger longer for certain substances.

Alcohol and some sedative withdrawals can be medically dangerous (e.g., seizures, delirium tremens). Medical supervision is recommended—especially for people with heavy use, prior severe withdrawal, or other health conditions.

Evidence‑based behavioral therapies include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Contingency Management, and family‑based approaches. Programs often combine these with medications when indicated.

FDA‑approved options include methadone, buprenorphine, naltrexone for opioid use disorder and naltrexone, acamprosate, disulfiram for alcohol use disorder. These medications reduce withdrawal and cravings and do not “replace one addiction with another” when used as prescribed.

Inpatient/residential care provides 24/7 support for people with significant medical/psychiatric needs or unstable environments. Outpatient care delivers scheduled counseling and/or medication while living at home; intensity ranges from weekly visits to intensive outpatient programs. The best fit depends on severity, risks, and support systems.

In the U.S., the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA) generally requires group health plans that offer mental health/substance use benefits to cover them no more restrictively than medical/surgical benefits. Coverage specifics vary, so check your plan details.

Express concern without judgment, encourage a professional evaluation, and offer practical help (appointments, transportation).

Relapse can occur and does not mean treatment failed. Estimated relapse rates for substance use disorders are ~40–60%, similar to other chronic conditions. If a return to use happens, re‑engaging or adjusting treatment is recommended.

Triggers include stress, cues linked to prior use (people/places), and untreated mental health symptoms. Prevention uses a personalized relapse plan, coping skills, and support (peer groups, therapy, medications). Recognizing stages—emotional → mental → physical relapse—helps intervene early.

Genetics account for about 40–60% of a person’s risk, with environment and developmental factors also playing large roles.

Recovery continues with ongoing care—e.g., outpatient therapy, mutual‑help groups, medication management, and sometimes sober living. Continuing care and recovery supports help sustain long‑term outcomes.