Do Drug Rehabs Even Work? | The Stats

Addiction can be one of the hardest things someone will ever go through. Taking the first step toward addiction treatment is daunting. With so much at stake–time, money, relationships, and most importantly, your future–it’s natural to ask: ‘Do drug rehabs even work?’ It’s important for those struggling to understand there is help out there–there is hope. In this blog, we will discuss the statistics behind rehab and why this is a good move for anyone who is struggling so you can feel comfortable with your decision.
If you or a loved one could benefit from 12 Steps to Recovery, contact Myrtle Beach Recovery to learn about our comfortable residential setting.
Recent Success Rates for Rehab
The data for rehab success rates is quite hopeful, in fact, the CDC estimates that 75% of people will recover from active addiction. Success rates depend on many factors, like the type of addiction and the method of treatment. Some ranges for types of addiction (including people with addiction who don’t have access to treatment) are as follows:
- 40-60% for alcohol addiction
- 30-50% for opioid addiction
- 40-50% for cocaine addiction
- 40-50% for behavioral addictions
Addiction Treatment Types and Their Effectiveness
Luckily, someone with an addiction has many options for treatment. Rehabs, like the one we offer at Myrtle Beach Recovery, are usually the most effective due to the intensity of care. Our 12-step immersion program, in particular, has proven to be one of the most respected and widely used paths to recovery. Here are the statistics of structured programs and how often they are able to help:
- 68% of people who undergo medically supervised detoxification have a successful rehabilitation experience
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) participants typically stay in treatment for an average of 113 days
- About 40% of successful outpatient program completions come from individuals who independently sought treatment
Why Our Approach Works
Myrtle Beach Recovery understands that success isn’t just about the statistics but the people who stand behind you. We tailor our treatment methods to the individual to find the exact roadmap you need to be healthy again. Here are some of the methods we use:
- Personalized Treatment Plans: There are as many addictions as there are addicts; a customized approach is the best way to find sobriety again.
- Supportive Environment: You need a peaceful environment to heal and we offer that.
- Comprehensive Life Skills: More often than not, addiction comes from a lack of tools to handle difficult moments in your life. We aim to arm you with the right skills to overcome addiction.
- Community Support: Group interaction is often the driving force behind recovery.
Understanding Success in Context
A success rate of 30%-75% is a fairly wide range and may seem modest. It’s important to understand that addiction recovery is an ongoing process–which can skew the numbers. Many people will need more than one type of treatment to finally feel free. Many consider themselves a person with addiction for life, even when sober. No matter the type of treatment you choose, you will get closer to a happy, healthy life each time you make that commitment.
Another issue with statistics in addiction is that it often relies on self-reported data which can introduce bias, memory lapses, and the desire to say someone is doing better than they are. There is also relapse, which can complicate the measurement of success. Relapse doesn’t mean someone isn’t successful on their sobriety journey, but someone may report it that way.
Research shows that the longer the treatment duration, including outpatient services, the more likely they will have long-term success. That’s why our program at Myrtle Beach Recovery focuses on both immediate recovery needs and long-term success strategies. We give you access to our network of services and resources to provide you with the best fighting chance.
Making the Right Choice
When considering rehabilitation options, remember that success rates are influenced by many factors, including:
- Individual commitment to recovery
- Length of treatment
- Quality and type of aftercare support
- Treatment program quality
- Personal support systems
Get Help for Addiction Today
Our short-term rehab provides a structured, supportive environment that statistics show can significantly improve recovery outcomes. We combine a 12-step program with personalized treatment and comprehensive life skills training. With the right team on your side the answer to the question: does rehab work? Is a clear yes. With enough time, motivation, and support you will get that much closer to a sober life.
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, remember that you’re not alone, and help is available. Contact Myrtle Beach Recovery to learn more about how our program can help you become part of the success statistics in recovery.

