Substance abuse treatment takes place in a wide variety of distinct treatment settings with a variety of different treatment methods. For example, some substance abuse treatment can be performed on an outpatient basis, where the person will typically attend treatment during the day but is allowed to return home daily. Other substance abuse treatment requires the person to reside in a hospital or residential facility during the entire course of treatment, which is especially beneficial in resolving more serious cases of addiction. Inpatient and residential substance abuse treatment can be done on a short term or long term basis, depending on various circumstances which can be different for each individual. Most substance abuse treatment will focus on getting the person physically rehabilitated, and then focus on the root psychological and emotional issues which will help them avoid relapse in the future.

Attending a residential long-term treatment facility (more than 30 days) is an effective way ofaddressing a serious drug or alcohol addiction problem. This type of substance abuse treatment program is more intensive than others that only last a few weeks or those where the person in recovery is free to come and go as they please. Attending a residential long-term treatment program (more than 30 days) means that you as the client will stay at the rehab center around the clock while you are in recovery. While offering a more relaxed home-like atmosphere the individual has access to counselors and staff at all times. Long term drug rehabilitation facilities are a perfect choice for those who have a long history of addiction or who have had other unsuccessful attempts at drug or alcohol treatment in the past.