Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2020 and has been updated in 2024 to reflect the latest available data and recovery strategies.
When someone you love is battling addiction, it’s normal to ask hard questions. Does drug rehab actually work? Is it worth the cost, the time, and the emotional energy? And if it does work, what does success really look like?
At Good Landing Recovery, we understand how complex recovery is. Drug rehab is not a one-size-fits-all solution, but when done right, it offers hope, healing, and a real path to lasting freedom.
Understanding the Data Behind Drug Rehab
The success of rehab is often misunderstood because different programs define success in different ways. Some facilities consider a program successful if the individual completes treatment. Others base success on long-term sobriety or improvements in quality of life.
According to data from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), 40 to 60 percent of people with substance use disorders will relapse at some point. While that statistic may sound discouraging, it actually reflects a broader truth: addiction is a chronic illness, and relapse rates are similar to those of other chronic diseases like asthma or hypertension.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reports that individuals who complete a full continuum of care, including detox, inpatient or residential treatment, and outpatient support, are significantly more likely to achieve and maintain sobriety. In fact, those who complete long-term inpatient programs have a five-year sobriety rate of approximately 21 percent, while those in outpatient programs average around 18 percent.
These numbers are not perfect, but they reveal something important: treatment works best when it’s consistent, personalized, and supported by ongoing care.
Why Success Isn't Just About Staying Sober
It’s tempting to define rehab success by whether someone stays sober forever, but that’s not always realistic. Recovery is a journey, and it often includes setbacks. What matters is how a person responds to those setbacks.
Relapse is not failure, it’s a signal that something needs to be addressed differently. Sometimes that means learning new coping strategies, adjusting medications, or finding stronger community support. A person who returns to treatment after a relapse is showing growth, not weakness.
Success in rehab can also mean:
- Going longer between relapses
- Using smaller amounts or less frequently
- Seeking help on their own when cravings return
- Gaining deeper insight into triggers and patterns
Each of these milestones shows progress and personal responsibility, critical indicators that recovery is taking root.
Measuring Growth in More Than One Way
Sobriety is one goal. Transformation is another.
Even if a person struggles to maintain perfect abstinence, you may still see clear signs that rehab is helping:
- They return to work or school and stay committed
- Their relationships begin to heal
- They engage in church, counseling, or recovery groups
- They express a deeper desire for a better life
Growth can also be seen in a person’s attitude toward responsibility and their openness to feedback. If they recognize when they’ve slipped and are willing to seek help, that is a powerful indicator of long-term success.
At Good Landing Recovery, we believe that true transformation is both spiritual and practical. That’s why we offer a Christ-centered approach that addresses the root of addiction, not just the behavior.
What Really Makes Rehab Work?
Effective drug rehab includes:
- A safe, structured environment
- Biblically based teaching and spiritual support
- Group and individual therapy
- Medical detox and ongoing care, when necessary
- Community accountability and long-term planning
When individuals are immersed in this type of supportive, faith-based environment, they are more likely to succeed. It’s not just about avoiding drugs. It’s about embracing a new life.
FAQ: Does Drug Rehab Work?
How long does drug rehab take to work?
It depends on the individual and the level of care. Many people see significant progress in 45 to 90 days, though ongoing support is crucial.
What are the odds of staying sober long-term?
National averages suggest that about 21 percent of residential rehab clients are sober five years later. The odds improve with continued aftercare and community support.
Does relapse mean rehab didn’t work?
Not necessarily. Relapse is often a part of recovery. What matters most is how a person responds. Returning to treatment can strengthen future sobriety.
Is Christian-based rehab more effective?
Faith-based programs like Good Landing Recovery can be especially powerful for individuals who want to rebuild their lives with Christ at the center. These programs integrate spiritual healing with practical recovery tools.
How do I know if my loved one is ready for rehab?
If their addiction is affecting their health, relationships, or ability to function, rehab is likely needed. Even if they’re resistant at first, intervention and conversation can help open the door.
Ready for a Real Change?
Drug rehab does work, especially when individuals are supported by a compassionate, faith-driven community that sees their potential—not just their past. At Good Landing Recovery, we walk with men and women every day who are ready to break the cycle and step into a new future.
Let us walk with you. Contact us today to learn more about our program and how we can help you or your loved one move toward lasting freedom.