How Long to Rewire a Brain from Addiction: Timeline & Process
Author:
Jonathan
Published:
Sep 21, 2024
,
10:01 a.m.
ET
Abstaining from addiction helps an individual rewire their brain. They will learn new healthy coping strategies that are taught through treatment. It can be hard to rewire the brain without recovery.
Recovery is possible. However, the process varies for each individual. This guide will explain recovery timelines and treatment options.
Addiction recovery timelines
The stages of addiction recovery vary among individuals. Most people don't stay on a specific stage for a long time. Some individuals quickly get through the stages, while it could take others longer. Therapists and recovery programs can help aid the process.
On average, the addiction recovery timeline can range from two to five years. This gives the individual enough time to recover and break the habit. Abstaining from addiction doesn't necessarily mean that the brain will resume normal function. The changes in the brain's pathways can last for several months or years.
The psychology of addiction: Can the brain be rewired?
It's possible to rewire your brain from addiction. But it takes time, patience, and persistence. With the right type of treatment, your brain will heal over time.
It can take up to 14 months of abstinence for your brain to return to its normal and healthy baseline. The dopamine levels will also return to a relatively normal level.
If you want to rewire your brain from addiction, you don't have to do it on your own. Work with a mental health professional who understands your particular addiction.
Birches Health has licensed clinicians who treat behavioral addictions and co-occurring mental health problems. Our unique approach includes clinical therapy, medication management, and relapse prevention.
Addiction treatment options and processes
Inpatient Treatment
Treatment Facilities
Treatment facilities offer a safe and structured environment where individuals receive care and support. These centers offer various services, such as counseling, detox, therapy sessions, and personalized treatment. Some facilities have a holistic approach that includes group therapy, mindfulness, and life skills. This equips individuals with new coping strategies, moves them through the healing process, and supports their sobriety.
PHP: Partial Hospitalization Program
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) is an intensive treatment option for individuals who struggle with drug or alcohol abuse from home. They receive behavioral support, group and individual therapy, medical monitoring, and structured care without the need for an inpatient facility.
PHPs are for individuals who don't require around-the-clock care but still need the support that outpatient programs provide. This allows them to maintain a healthy lifestyle and get the treatment they need for effective recovery.
1-on-1 Counseling: In-person and Virtual
In-Person Therapy
In-person therapy involves face-to-face counseling sessions with a licensed mental health professional. This type of therapy offers a safe and supportive environment where individuals work on their sobriety, develop new coping strategies, and uncover the root cause of their addiction. In-person therapy treats both behavioral addictions and substance abuse disorders.
Intensive Outpatient Programs
Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) are one example of in-person therapy that allows individuals to recover without requiring an overnight stay. IOPs require multiple sessions per week for successful recovery. This type of therapy includes a combination of individual counseling, group therapy sessions, and educational resources. It's for individuals who need more care than outpatient therapy can provide but don't want to interrupt their daily routine.
Virtual Therapy
Virtual therapy offers counseling sessions to individuals via phone, chat, or video calls. This talk-based therapy helps the individual uncover the triggers and causes of their addiction. Virtual therapy can include a combination of services that matches individuals with licensed therapists.
It addresses a wide variety of issues, including trauma, stress, anger management, grief, and relationship problems. Virtual therapy can also help treat mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, personality disorders, and eating disorders. There are numerous benefits to virtual therapy, such as accessibility.
Those who live in a rural area without access to counseling sessions can get the help they need whenever they want. Virtual therapy also gives individuals access to a wider array of therapists who specialize in different areas of addiction and mental health. It's convenient for individuals with full-time jobs and responsibilities that could impede their recovery.
Birches Health offers virtual treatment for addiction recovery. They work with licensed clinicians who are experienced with working with various conditions. Recovery starts with a free and confidential self-assessment. From there, patients receive a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to their disorder and recovery goals.
Here are some ways to get started with Birches Health:
You can also speak to the team at 833-483-3838 or email hello@bircheshealth.com to connect with Birches Health today.
Support Groups
Support groups can help individuals who struggle with either behavioral addictions or substance abuse disorders. These meetings allow individuals to share their experiences involving a similar issue. The goal is to offer support, motivation, and accountability for those in therapy.
Some support groups are based on the 12-steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. Some groups are more evidence-based, such as SMART Recovery. Most individuals successfully recover with the help of support groups. However, support groups are just one aspect of addiction recovery.
They can complement other types of treatment, such as individual counseling or family therapy. Knowing the goal of a support group can help you choose the right one. The most important thing is to find a support group that offers accessible meetings, offers encouragement, and aligns with your recovery goals.
Deciding which treatment option is right for you
Choosing the right treatment option is imperative to your recovery. When making this decision, you should consider the benefits and risks involved. Research each of the options and seek supporting evidence for the treatment.
You should also consider whether the treatment aligns with your values and recovery goals. When researching alternatives, such as holistic strategies, don't always assume it's safe. It's always best to get a second opinion. It's also important to find a treatment that's both accessible and reasonably cost-effective.
