Choosing treatment

Rehab success rates: Understanding the numbers

Published July 1, 2025 · 7 min read · Updated April 2026

Reviewed for accuracy by licensed clinical professionals.

The commonly cited number

Treatment completion rates average 50-60%. Post-treatment abstinence rates at one year are 30-50% for a single treatment episode. These numbers improve with each subsequent treatment attempt and with longer treatment duration.

Why rates seem low

The comparison baseline matters. Untreated addiction has near-zero spontaneous remission. Even modest improvement from treatment represents significant benefit. Relapse rates of 40-60% are comparable to hypertension (50-70%) and asthma (50-70%).

What improves the odds

90+ days of total treatment. Aftercare participation. MAT for opioid and alcohol use disorders. Treatment of co-occurring conditions. Sober living after residential. Recovery community involvement.

What facilities should tell you

Programs claiming 70-90% success rates are likely using cherry-picked data or narrow definitions. Ask how they define success, how they measure it, and how long after discharge they track outcomes.

Authoritative sources

This article references guidelines from: SAMHSA · NIDA · ASAM

Frequently asked questions

How do I find the right program?

Call SAMHSA at 1-800-662-4357 or search our directory. Filter by your insurance, location, and treatment needs.

Does insurance cover treatment?

Most insurance covers substance abuse treatment under the Mental Health Parity Act.

How quickly can I get into treatment?

Many facilities admit within 24-72 hours. Call admissions directly for current availability.

Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. SAMHSA: 1-800-662-4357.