How Long Does It Take to Get Sober? Your Recovery Timeline

If you’re thinking about quitting drugs or alcohol, one of the first questions you might ask is: how long does it take to get sober? The answer depends on several factors, including the substance used, how long you’ve been using and your overall health. But the good news is that recovery is possible, and with the right support, you can regain control of your life.

At Freedom Rehab Bali, we offer private, one-on-one addiction treatment in a peaceful, tropical setting. Our approach is personalised to help you get sober safely and sustainably – not just for the short term, but for life.

What does it mean to be sober?

Sobriety isn’t just about removing substances from your body. It’s about achieving a clear mind, emotional stability and a fulfilling life without drugs or alcohol. The timeline for reaching this state varies from person to person, but it generally happens in stages.

The stages of getting sober

1. The first 24-72 hours: detox begins

This is the acute withdrawal phase, where your body starts eliminating toxins. Depending on the substance, withdrawal symptoms can include:

Anxiety and irritability
Nausea and sweating
Insomnia
Cravings
In severe cases, seizures (especially with alcohol or benzodiazepine withdrawal)

At Freedom Rehab Bali, we provide medically supported detox to make this stage as comfortable and safe as possible.

2. The first week: physical withdrawal peaks

Most withdrawal symptoms reach their peak within 5-7 days. While this period can be challenging, proper medical care, nutrition and hydration can ease discomfort.

This is also when mental health symptoms – like depression, anxiety or mood swings – may start to emerge. Since addiction and mental health are deeply connected, addressing both is crucial for lasting recovery.

3. The first month: emotional & mental clarity begins

By the end of the first month, physical withdrawal has mostly subsided, but psychological cravings can remain. This is when the real work of recovery starts. Private therapy sessions, holistic treatments like meditation and yoga, and learning new coping strategies help lay the foundation for long-term sobriety.

At Freedom Rehab Bali, our exclusive one-on-one approach ensures that every aspect of your recovery is tailored to you, helping you rebuild your mental and emotional strength.

4. The first 3-6 months: rebuilding life without substances

This is where deeper healing happens. Your body adjusts to life without substances, your sleep improves and you start to experience real emotional breakthroughs. This is also when relapse risk is highest, making it essential to have professional support.

During this phase, we focus on helping you:

Develop healthy coping mechanisms
Work through underlying mental health issues
Build confidence and self-worth
Establish a routine that supports sobriety

5. One year & beyond: long-term sobriety

By the one-year mark, many people feel stable in their recovery. However, staying sober is a lifelong commitment. Continued therapy, support systems and a healthy lifestyle all play a role in maintaining sobriety.

What affects how long it takes to get sober?

Several factors influence the timeline, including:

The substance used (Alcohol and benzodiazepines have longer withdrawal periods than stimulants)
How long you’ve been using (Long-term use can require more time for full recovery)
Your overall health (Good physical and mental health can speed up recovery)
Your support system (Professional care and emotional support are key)

Why choose a private, one-on-one rehab?

At Freedom Rehab Bali, we offer an exclusive, highly personalised recovery experience that differs from traditional rehabs:

No group therapy – just private, one-on-one sessions focused on you.
A holistic approach – including therapy, nutrition, meditation and fitness.
A calming, luxury setting – in Bali’s serene environment, away from daily stressors.
Confidentiality and discretion – perfect for those seeking private recovery.

Take the first step towards sobriety

The journey to sobriety is different for everyone, but with the right support, it’s absolutely possible. At Freedom Rehab Bali, we provide the expert care, personal attention and peaceful environment you need to reclaim your life.

Ready for a change? Let’s talk. Message us on WhatsApp or call now to start your journey to freedom.