Recovery from alcoholism is often considered a lifelong process. It's important to understand that while the physical dependency on alcohol can be addressed within days to weeks of stopping drinking, the psychological and behavioral aspects of addiction often require ongoing effort and support. Here are some general phases of recovery from alcoholism:

1. Detoxification (Detox): This is the initial stage which typically lasts a few days to a week. During this time, the body clears itself of alcohol, and withdrawal symptoms are managed in a medically supervised setting.
2. Rehabilitation (Rehab): This often follows detox and can last from a few weeks to several months. Rehabilitation involves intensive therapy and counseling to address the psychological reasons behind the addiction.
3. Maintenance: After completing an initial rehab program, ongoing treatment is crucial to maintain sobriety. This may include therapy, support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), and possibly medications that help reduce cravings or treat co-occurring disorders.
4. **Long-term Sobriety:** Maintaining long-term sobriety is an ongoing process that involves continual personal growth, self-care, and support. It may involve regular participation in support groups, continued therapy, and other strategies to manage stress and prevent relapse. The timeline for recovery can vary significantly depending on the individual’s situation, including the severity of their addiction, their physical health, the presence of any co-occurring mental health conditions, and their support system. For many, recovery is a lifelong commitment that involves daily attention to maintaining sobriety and mental health. It's also worth noting that recovery is not a linear process; many people experience setbacks or relapses along the way. Relapse should not be seen as a failure but rather as a part of the journey that might indicate the need for a different treatment approach or more support.