Treatment Options

The National Institute on Drug Abuse recommends a minimum of 90 days in treatment. Research shows that treatment lasting less than 90 days has limited effectiveness. Many people benefit from 6–12 months of structured care followed by ongoing outpatient therapy and support group participation. Treatment length should be tailored to individual needs, severity of addiction, and co-occurring conditions.

Yes. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires most health insurance plans to cover substance use disorder treatment as an essential health benefit. The Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act ensures coverage is comparable to other medical conditions. Medicaid also covers treatment in most states. Contact your insurer to verify specific benefits, or call SAMHSA at 1-800-662-4357 for help finding covered options.

Inpatient (residential) treatment provides 24/7 care in a structured facility, typically for 28–90 days. It is best for severe addiction, co-occurring mental health disorders, or when the home environment is not conducive to recovery. Outpatient treatment allows patients to live at home while attending therapy sessions several times per week. Intensive outpatient (IOP) and partial hospitalization (PHP) bridge the gap between inpatient and standard outpatient care.

The first day typically involves a comprehensive intake assessment covering medical history, substance use history, mental health screening, and social circumstances. A treatment team will develop a personalized care plan. For inpatient programs, you will be shown around the facility and introduced to staff. If detox is needed, medical stabilization begins right away. Most people feel a combination of anxiety and relief on their first day.

No. MAT medications like buprenorphine and methadone are evidence-based treatments that stabilize brain chemistry, reduce cravings, and prevent overdose without producing the euphoric high associated with drug abuse. The World Health Organization and every major medical organization endorses MAT as the standard of care for opioid use disorder. Research shows MAT reduces overdose deaths by more than 50% and significantly improves treatment retention.

In most cases, treatment is voluntary and more effective when the person is motivated. However, some states allow involuntary commitment for substance use disorders under specific circumstances. Court-ordered treatment can also occur through drug courts. Research shows that even when treatment is involuntary or coerced (e.g., by family or employers), outcomes are often comparable to voluntary treatment because engagement develops during the process.