There is no standard timeframe for completing an online alcohol and other drug program.

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Some programs are relatively brief and focus on a small number of key topics. Others provide more comprehensive education across a broader range of areas and may take several weeks or longer to complete.

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The time required will depend on the structure of the program, the amount of content involved and whether participants work through the material independently or receive professional support as part of the program.

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What affects how long an AOD program takes?

Several factors can influence the time required to complete an online AOD program.

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These may include:

• the number of modules or lessons

• the amount of material covered

• whether activities or reflective exercises are included

• whether the program is self-paced

• how much time the participant spends reflecting on the material

• whether there are required appointments or group sessions

• whether the program has a set completion timeframe

 

Two programs described as AOD programs may therefore involve very different amounts of time and content.

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What does self-paced mean?

A self-paced program allows participants to work through the material according to their own schedule rather than attending regular sessions at predetermined times.

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This can provide flexibility for people balancing work, family or other commitments. However, self-paced does not necessarily mean that completing a program as quickly as possible is the best approach for every participant.

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Where a program includes reflective activities, it may be useful to allow time to consider how the material relates to personal experiences, patterns and situations.

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Can an online AOD program be completed quickly?

Some online programs can be completed within a relatively short period of time, particularly when they are designed as focused educational programs.

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More comprehensive programs may require more time because they cover a broader range of topics and include additional activities or opportunities for reflection.

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The appropriate pace will depend on the individual and the program. Completing material quickly confirms that the program requirements have been completed. It does not, by itself, demonstrate a particular level of behavioural change, clinical improvement or future risk.

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Is a longer AOD program necessarily better?

Not necessarily.

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The length of a program does not automatically determine its quality or whether it is appropriate for a particular person.

A shorter program may provide focused education about key areas of alcohol and other drug use.

 

A longer program may explore a wider range of topics or provide greater opportunity for reflection.

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When comparing programs, it can be useful to consider:

• what topics are covered

• the purpose of the program

• how the material is delivered

• what participants are expected to do

• whether professional support is included

• whether the program is educational or provides treatment

 

The most relevant option will depend on what the person is seeking and the level of support they require.

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How much time should you spend on each module?

There is no single amount of time that will be appropriate for everyone.

 

Some participants may already be familiar with particular concepts, while others may want additional time to reflect on the material and complete activities.

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Rather than focusing only on finishing a module, it may be useful to consider what the material means in relation to your own circumstances.

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For example, identifying a trigger may take only a few minutes. Developing a clearer understanding of how that trigger has influenced previous behaviour may require more reflection.

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Can you take breaks while completing an online AOD program?

This depends on how the particular program is structured.

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Many self-paced online programs allow participants to leave the course and return later, making it possible to complete the material over multiple sessions.

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For some people, spreading a program across several days or weeks may provide more opportunity to reflect on the content. Others may prefer to complete the material more intensively because of their circumstances or available time.

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Before enrolling, it can be useful to check whether there are any deadlines and how long access to the course is provided.

 

What if you are completing an AOD program for a legal matter?

People sometimes seek an AOD program when they have an upcoming court date or another legal deadline.

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If timing is important, it can be useful to check:

• how many modules need to be completed

• whether the program is self-paced

• whether there is a minimum completion period

• what is required for the program to be recorded as complete

• when a completion certificate becomes available

• whether additional documentation requires extra processing time

 

A person completing an AOD program in connection with a legal matter should discuss their individual circumstances with their lawyer.

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Completing a program within a particular timeframe does not guarantee that it will be accepted for a particular purpose or result in a particular legal outcome.

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Does completing an AOD program mean that treatment is complete?

No.

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Completion of an educational AOD program means that the requirements of that particular program have been completed.

It does not necessarily mean that a person no longer requires support or that concerns relating to alcohol or other drug use have been resolved.

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Some people may complete an educational program independently. Others may use psychoeducation alongside counselling, medical care, peer support or specialist alcohol and drug services.

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People who require withdrawal management, individual psychological treatment, medical care or more intensive support should seek assistance from an appropriate health professional or specialist service.

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How long does The Wagon take to complete?

The Wagon is a self-paced online alcohol and other drug psychoeducation program.

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The comprehensive program contains 10 modules and can be approached over approximately 4 to 6 weeks. An intensive pathway allows participants who need to work through the program within a shorter timeframe to complete the material over approximately 7 to 10 days.

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Participants can work through the program independently and at their own pace within the available access period.

The time taken to complete The Wagon will therefore vary between participants.

 

The suggested timeframes describe ways in which the program can be approached and do not represent guarantees about personal, behavioural or clinical outcomes.

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The Wagon is educational in nature and does not provide individual psychological treatment, medical care, withdrawal management or personalised legal advice.

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Written by Jay Beckley, Registered Psychologist