Entering rehab is a life-changing decision. The first 72 hours of rehab are often the most physically and emotionally intense. For individuals struggling with alcohol addiction or drug abuse, this initial window is critical in starting the recovery journey.
In New Jersey, rehab centers provide a structured, supervised environment where medical professionals help patients safely manage withdrawal symptoms. Understanding what to expect during this period can reduce anxiety, improve readiness, and promote long-term recovery.
Why the First 72 Hours of Rehab Are Crucial
The first 72 hours of rehab mark the acute withdrawal phase โ a period when physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms from drugs or alcohol reach their peak. The body begins adjusting to the absence of substances after consistent use, leading to a range of psychological and physical symptoms.
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), nearly 14.5 million people in the U.S. struggled with alcohol use disorder (AUD) in 2022. Many require detox before starting formal addiction treatment.
Inpatient or outpatient programs in New Jersey begin with the detox process to eliminate substances from the body. Depending on the severity of the addiction and the type of substance used, this can involve medical supervision, therapeutic support, and medication-assisted treatment.
First 24 Hours: Medical Intake and Initial Detox
Your first hours after the last drink or drug use begin with a detailed clinical evaluation. Licensed medical professionals assess:
- Substance use history
- Physical and psychological symptoms
- Co-occurring mental health conditions
- Vital signs, such as high blood pressure or heart rate
- Insurance coverage and treatment options
This evaluation helps determine whether inpatient rehab, outpatient rehab, or residential treatment is appropriate.
For those who need supervised detox, this stage may begin within 6โ12 hours after the last drink. Common symptoms during this time include:
- Anxiety or restlessness
- Mild tremors
- Insomnia and sleep disturbances
- Nausea
- Increased heart rate
These are considered mild symptoms, but they can progress. Detox centers in New Jersey typically provide 24/7 medical care to monitor and respond to changes in health status.
Orientation to the Program
Next, patients are introduced to the facilityโs rules, daily schedules, and expectations. You’ll meet staff, tour the facility, and receive essential items for your stay if you’re in residential treatment.
A strong emphasis is placed on creating a supportive environment where patients feel safe, respected, and understood.
24โ48 Hours: Peak Physical Withdrawal Symptoms
24-48 hours into quitting drugs or alcohol, your withdrawal symptoms will worsen, and you may require medical guidance.
For some, delirium tremens (DTs) can occur โ a life-threatening condition that involves severe confusion, shaking, seizures, and fluctuations in heart rate. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), DTs affect about 5% of people going through alcohol withdrawal and require immediate medical intervention.
To safely manage withdrawal symptoms, treatment centers often administer medication-assisted treatment (MAT) during this time. Medications reduce the risk of complications and help patients remain stable.
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48โ72 Hours: Stabilization and Emotional Adjustment
As the physical withdrawal symptoms begin to subside, psychological challenges often become more pronounced. Patients may experience:
- Mood swings
- Depression or anxiety
- Poor concentration
- Sleep disturbances
- Drug cravings
This period often includes therapeutic support, such as individual counseling, to help patients begin understanding the emotional side of addiction.
Once withdrawal symptoms are controlled (if detox was necessary), patients begin transitioning into the therapeutic phase. This includes:
- Monitoring of vital signs (e.g., heart rate, blood pressure)
- Nutritional support and hydration
- Assistance with sleep disturbances
- Emotional reassurance as psychological symptoms (like mood swings or poor concentration) begin to surface
Patients typically begin attending group therapy, educational sessions, and limited individual counseling within this window of time, though they may start earlier if they donโt need medical detox.
Therapists help patients:
- Identify triggers
- Begin understanding addictive behavior patterns
- Learn the basics of relapse prevention
- Develop trust in a therapeutic support team
This period also helps determine whether a patient would benefit more from long-term inpatient rehab, step-down outpatient care, or a hybrid approach.
Building a Support System
A strong support system is essential during the early stages of recovery. Family therapy and support groups may be introduced, depending on the treatment centerโs approach. Some rehab facilities in New Jersey also involve family members in the recovery process during the initial hours to strengthen long-term sobriety plans.
Inpatient vs. Outpatient: Which Is Right for You?
Not all individuals require residential or inpatient treatment. The decision depends on multiple factors:
- Severity of addiction
- Risk of severe symptoms like seizures or delirium tremens
- Co-existing mental health disorders
- History of relapse
- Strength of home support system
Outpatient treatment and outpatient programs may be suitable for those with mild symptoms and a stable home environment. However, inpatient rehab is recommended when symptoms are intense or safety is a concern.
Patients may transition from inpatient rehab to outpatient rehab, or move into structured sober living environments. Long term recovery depends on consistent engagement with treatment programs and ongoing therapeutic support.
What Happens If You Stop Rehab After The First 72 Hours?
Leaving rehab after just 72 hours is not uncommon โ but it can seriously undermine your recovery. The first three days are primarily focused on medical stabilization, withdrawal management, and orientation into the program. While this period is intense, itโs only the beginning of the therapeutic process.
If you leave at this point, you miss the critical next steps: learning coping strategies, working through underlying psychological challenges, and building a support system thatโs essential for long-term sobriety. Without these, the risk of relapse increases sharply. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), 40โ60% of individuals with substance use disorders relapse, and the likelihood is higher when treatment is cut short.
There are also physical risks. If detox is not fully completed, withdrawal symptoms may still be present โ potentially leading to medical complications. For alcohol or benzodiazepine users, early discharge can be dangerous due to risks like seizures or delirium tremens.
On a practical level, leaving early may also affect insurance coverage or future admissions, especially if you check out against medical advice (AMA).
If youโre struggling in the early stages, speak with a counselor. Many rehab centers offer flexible options like stepping down to outpatient treatment rather than quitting altogether. The discomfort of early recovery is temporary โ but the consequences of leaving too soon can be lasting.
Your First 72 Hours of Addiction Treatment Set the Foundation
The first 72 hours of rehab are intense โ but they are also transformative. With the right care, medical oversight, and emotional support, individuals can begin their recovery journey in a safe, structured environment designed to manage both physical and psychological symptoms.
In New Jersey, rehab centers are equipped to provide effective addiction treatment, regardless of the severity of the addiction. Whether youโre considering inpatient or outpatient programs, understanding what to expect in these early stages can empower you โ or a loved one โ to take that first critical step toward long-term sobriety.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I bring personal belongings with me to rehab in New Jersey?
Yes, most rehab centers allow essential personal items such as clothing, toiletries, and approved medications. However, items like alcohol, drugs, weapons, or unapproved electronics are typically prohibited. Each facility has its own list of allowed and restricted items, so it’s important to check with the admissions staff beforehand.
2. Can I receive visitors or make phone calls during the first 72 hours?
Typically, no. Most rehab programs restrict external contact during the initial detox phase to allow patients to focus on stabilization and safety. Once the detox phase is complete, many facilities gradually allow limited communication with approved family or support persons.
3. How quickly can I start treatment after reaching out to a rehab center?
Many treatment centers in New Jersey offer same-day or next-day admissions, especially for individuals in crisis. If you or a loved one is ready to begin the recovery process, contacting the admissions department directly is the fastest way to begin intake, verify insurance, and arrange transportation if needed.
4. How long does rehab last in total?
The length of rehab depends on the individualโs needs, the severity of the addiction, and the type of program. Most treatment programs range from 30 to 90 days, with some extending to 120 days or longer for complex cases.
Short-term options, such as 28-day inpatient programs, are common, but research shows longer stays โ 60 days or more โ tend to result in better outcomes.
References:
- National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): Treatment and Recovery
- NIDA: Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment: A Research-Based Guide (Third Edition)
