What Happens During Drug Rehab? | A Typical Day In Rehab

Medically Reviewed by Johnelle Smith, M.D.

Updated on

Different drug and alcohol rehab programs provide different levels of care, such as inpatient, outpatient, and residential treatment. People receiving residential treatment will live onsite at a rehab center, with a schedule including treatment sessions, quiet time, meals, and more.

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As a rule of thumb, though, potential clients can expect to find that their schedules are organized to provide a comfortable, supportive, and educational environment each day.

Residential addiction treatment programs offer a structured schedule that involves a number of treatment services and other activities throughout the day.

The schedule is typically broken up into morning, afternoon, and evening activities, with plenty of free time before bed.

Treatment services may include various individual and group therapy sessions, peer recovery support, and educational programs, including vocational and life skills training.

The Daily Schedule At A Drug Rehab Center

Each addiction recovery center differs in its daily schedule, such as when the day begins and comes to a close, as well as what activities are offered throughout.

As a rule of thumb, though, potential clients can expect to find that their schedules are organized to provide a comfortable, supportive, and educational environment each day.

A Typical Morning Schedule

Mornings at substance abuse treatment centers often begin with a wake-up call followed by time allotted for getting ready for the day, including eating a nutritious breakfast as a group.

Once breakfast is over, clients begin receiving treatment for the day, which may include therapy sessions, educational programs, or, for people still detoxing, medical checkups.

Lunch And Free Time

Lunch provides another opportunity for social interaction and a break from the morning’s treatment services.
Many addiction treatment centers then provide their clients with free time, which may be spent journaling, socializing, or using personal electronics, if the facility allows them.

Outdoor activities may also be available at this time, including opportunities for sports, hiking, or just spending time in nature.

Further Classes, Dinner, And Evening Activities

Once afternoon free time is complete, clients bring their attention back to treatment services, which may include evidence-based therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

Educational programs may be offered in an individual setting or a group setting, with a group setting preferred for developing life skills that require working together.

These programs lead into dinner, the day’s last meal and a segway into evening activities, which are usually based around relaxation and entertainment.

While each treatment center is different, many facilities offer socialization time in shared spaces, such as movie nights with snacks and boardgames, and plenty of opportunities for quiet time.

Bedtime often includes quiet time to read or reflect on the day, journal, and prepare to get a good night’s rest.

Find A Drug Treatment Center Today

If you or a loved one is in need of chemical dependency treatment, contact AddictionResource.net today to discuss available treatment options.

This page does not provide medical advice. See more

Addiction Resource aims to provide only the most current, accurate information in regards to addiction and addiction treatment, which means we only reference the most credible sources available.

These include peer-reviewed journals, government entities and academic institutions, and leaders in addiction healthcare and advocacy. Learn more about how we safeguard our content by viewing our editorial policy.

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