How Long Does It Take To Get Sober?

Nick Leason

-Oct 23, 2025

It takes varying amounts of time to get sober, depending on numerous factors, including the substance used, the severity of the addiction, and the individual's overall health and support system. The journey to sobriety is a complex process that includes the initial detox phase, active treatment, and long-term recovery and maintenance. Understanding these phases and the factors that influence the timeline is critical for anyone seeking or supporting recovery.

Key Takeaways

Detox Duration: The acute withdrawal phase can last from a few days to several weeks, depending on the substance and the individual.
Treatment Length: Active treatment, including therapy and counseling, often lasts for several weeks or months.
Long-Term Recovery: Ongoing support and lifestyle changes are essential for sustained sobriety and can last a lifetime.
Individual Variability: The timeline for getting sober varies greatly depending on individual factors, including substance use history and mental health.
Professional Help: Seeking professional medical advice and addiction treatment can significantly improve your chances of a successful recovery.

Introduction

Sobriety is a journey, not a destination. It involves the process of ceasing substance use and adapting to a life free from the influence of drugs or alcohol. The question of "how long does it take to get sober?" is one that many people ask when considering or beginning this journey. There is no one-size-fits-all answer. The timeline varies significantly from person to person. — Alcohol Sales On Christmas: What You Need To Know

Factors like the substance used, the duration and intensity of use, individual metabolism, and the presence of any co-occurring mental health disorders all play a role in determining how long the process takes. The journey typically includes several phases: detoxification (detox), active treatment, and long-term recovery.

What & Why

The Detoxification Phase

Detoxification (detox) is the initial phase of getting sober. It involves the removal of the substance from the body. This process can be physically and emotionally challenging, as the body adjusts to the absence of the substance. The duration of detox varies based on the substance used. For example, alcohol and opioid detox can be particularly intense, with symptoms appearing quickly after the last dose. — Myrtle Beach Weather In February: What To Expect

Alcohol: Alcohol withdrawal symptoms can begin within hours of the last drink and can include tremors, anxiety, nausea, and in severe cases, seizures and delirium tremens (DTs). Medically supervised detox is often necessary to manage these symptoms safely.
Opioids: Opioid withdrawal symptoms typically begin within 6–12 hours after the last dose, depending on the specific opioid and its half-life. Symptoms include muscle aches, anxiety, sweating, and cravings. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is often used to ease withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings.
Stimulants: Withdrawal from stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine can cause fatigue, depression, and intense cravings. While not typically life-threatening like alcohol or opioid withdrawal, it can still be very difficult to manage without professional support.

Active Treatment

Once the acute withdrawal symptoms have subsided, active treatment begins. This phase focuses on addressing the underlying causes of addiction and developing coping mechanisms to prevent relapse. Treatment options include: — London Weather In November: What To Expect

Therapy: Individual and group therapy sessions are crucial components of treatment. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) are commonly used to help individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to substance use.
Counseling: Counseling provides a supportive environment for individuals to explore their feelings, address past traumas, and develop healthy coping strategies.
Medication: Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) may be used to manage withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and prevent relapse. Medications like naltrexone and buprenorphine are commonly used in the treatment of alcohol and opioid addiction.
Support Groups: Support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) provide a network of support and encouragement from peers who understand the challenges of recovery.

Long-Term Recovery

Long-term recovery is an ongoing process that requires consistent effort and support. This phase involves maintaining sobriety, developing a healthy lifestyle, and building a strong support system. Key components of long-term recovery include:

Relapse Prevention: Developing strategies to identify and manage triggers, cravings, and potential relapse situations.
Lifestyle Changes: Making positive changes in diet, exercise, sleep, and stress management to support overall health and well-being.
Ongoing Therapy: Continuing therapy sessions to address any underlying issues and maintain coping skills.
Support Networks: Actively participating in support groups, seeking guidance from a sponsor, and maintaining strong relationships with sober friends and family.

How-To / Steps / Framework Application

The journey to sobriety can be broken down into several key steps:

Recognize the Problem: The first step is acknowledging the presence of a substance use disorder and the impact it has on your life.
Seek Professional Help: Consult with a healthcare professional or addiction specialist to assess the severity of the addiction and develop a personalized treatment plan.
Detoxification: Undergo medically supervised detox to safely remove the substance from your body.
Active Treatment: Participate in therapy, counseling, and support groups to address the underlying causes of addiction and develop coping mechanisms.
Develop a Relapse Prevention Plan: Identify triggers, develop strategies for managing cravings, and create a plan for handling potential relapse situations.
Build a Support System: Surround yourself with supportive friends, family members, and/or a sponsor who can provide encouragement and accountability.
Embrace a Healthy Lifestyle: Make positive changes in diet, exercise, sleep, and stress management to support overall health and well-being.
Attend Support Group Meetings: Regularly attend support group meetings, such as AA or NA, to connect with others in recovery and gain support.
Continue Therapy: Continue attending therapy sessions to address any underlying issues and maintain coping skills.
Celebrate Milestones: Acknowledge and celebrate your progress and achievements along the way to stay motivated.

Examples & Use Cases

Case Study 1: Alcohol Addiction

Background: A 45-year-old man had been drinking heavily for 15 years. He experienced daily alcohol use and withdrawal symptoms when he tried to stop. His alcohol consumption had caused health problems and strained his relationships.
Treatment: He began with a medically supervised detox lasting five days, followed by residential treatment for 30 days. He attended individual and group therapy sessions. Medication (naltrexone) was used to reduce cravings. After residential treatment, he transitioned to outpatient therapy and attended AA meetings regularly.
Outcome: After six months, he remained sober, had repaired relationships, and was actively involved in his recovery. He still attends AA meetings and sees a therapist for ongoing support.

Case Study 2: Opioid Addiction

Background: A 30-year-old woman was addicted to prescription opioids after an injury. She had been using opioids daily for three years and experienced severe withdrawal symptoms when she stopped.
Treatment: She underwent a medically supervised detox for five days, followed by medication-assisted treatment (MAT) with buprenorphine. She attended individual and group therapy sessions and participated in a 12-step program. She also worked with a counselor to address the underlying causes of her addiction.
Outcome: After one year, she was still in recovery, attending therapy, and taking buprenorphine. She had rebuilt relationships and returned to work.

Best Practices & Common Mistakes

Best Practices

Seek Professional Help: Consult with healthcare professionals to determine the best course of treatment.
Medically Supervised Detox: Undergo detox in a medically supervised environment to ensure safety and manage withdrawal symptoms effectively.
Comprehensive Treatment: Participate in a comprehensive treatment program that includes therapy, counseling, and support groups.
Develop a Relapse Prevention Plan: Create a detailed plan to identify and manage triggers and prevent relapse.
Build a Strong Support System: Surround yourself with supportive friends, family, and/or a sponsor.
Prioritize Physical and Mental Health: Engage in regular exercise, maintain a healthy diet, and practice stress-management techniques.

Common Mistakes

Attempting to Detox Alone: Attempting to detox without medical supervision can be dangerous and increase the risk of relapse.
Skipping Therapy: Skipping therapy sessions can hinder progress and prevent the development of coping mechanisms.
Isolating Yourself: Isolating yourself from support networks can lead to feelings of loneliness and increase the risk of relapse.
Ignoring Underlying Issues: Ignoring any co-occurring mental health disorders or unresolved trauma can undermine the recovery process.
Lack of Aftercare: Failing to participate in aftercare programs, such as therapy or support groups, can increase the risk of relapse.

FAQs

How long does alcohol withdrawal last? Alcohol withdrawal symptoms typically last from a few days to a week, but severe symptoms like delirium tremens (DTs) can last longer.
How long does opioid withdrawal last? Opioid withdrawal symptoms can last from a few days to several weeks, with the most intense symptoms typically occurring within the first week.
What is the role of medication in the recovery process? Medications like naltrexone and buprenorphine can help manage withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and prevent relapse.
Do I need to go to rehab to get sober? While rehab can be highly effective, the need for rehab depends on the severity of the addiction and individual circumstances. Outpatient treatment and support groups can also be effective for some.
How important is aftercare in maintaining sobriety? Aftercare is essential for maintaining sobriety. Ongoing therapy, support groups, and a strong support system can help prevent relapse and promote long-term recovery.
Can I get sober on my own? While some people can achieve sobriety on their own, professional help and support greatly increase the chances of success, especially for moderate to severe addictions.
What if I relapse? Relapse is a common part of the recovery process. If you relapse, seek support from your treatment team, support group, or sponsor, and get back on track with your recovery plan.

Conclusion with CTA

Getting sober is a challenging but achievable goal, and the time it takes varies from person to person. With the right support, treatment, and dedication, recovery is possible. If you or a loved one is struggling with substance use, take the first step toward a healthier, substance-free life by seeking professional help. Contact a healthcare provider or addiction specialist today to learn more about treatment options and start your journey to recovery.

Last updated: October 26, 2024, 14:00 UTC