After a successful journey through detox and treatment, the topic of addiction treatment aftercare has emerged in your conversations. Finally, when you believe you have reached the goal, there is another option to consider. While addiction treatment aftercare may be a surprise, the truth about how hard it will be to maintain sobriety is no secret. However, addiction treatment aftercare dramatically increases the chances of long-term sober living. In addition, preventing relapse is never a waste of time or energy.
Addiction treatment aftercare can address the fear and trepidation that can follow treatment. Unfamiliar with sober living, some participants need additional support to move forward. Independence is a new concept after being in therapy. These programs can provide the added boost of confidence needed to prevent relapse.
If you or a loved on are struggling with addiction, our compassionate team is standing by! Call us today or visit our admissions page to take the first step towards healing!
What is Addiction Treatment Aftercare?
This treatment modality is an option for individuals who have completed detox and a treatment program. Aftercare addresses any individual weakness that could lead to relapse. After deciding to become sober and spending time and money on treatment, it would be highly prudent to work on any remaining symptoms that could lead back to addiction. Relapse protection, you can consider aftercare as an additional measure to prevent relapse.
Addiction treatment aftercare is another tool to maintain momentum and motivation in an early sober experience. The individual needs to remember that addiction is a chronic, relapsing, and lifelong disease to be successful. For those with an extreme addiction, 30 to 90 days of treatment may not be enough to begin a sober journey. Aftercare can be a necessary process in treatment and recovery from addiction. At the Retreat of Atlanta, we have an aftercare coordinator who specializes in meeting with patients to find the perfect match for their aftercare needs.
Is Addiction Treatment Aftercare Required?
Drug rehab aftercare is never required unless ordered by a court, but the treatment team may strongly advise it. Streamlining the recovery process to include aftercare is encouraged for those needing additional therapy, casework, and other lifestyle skills. Drug rehab aftercare builds a stronger foundation for sober living. New occupational or education skills and different support groups can be found while developing a stronger sense of self and confidence.
What are the Benefits of Aftercare?
The benefits of this process are priceless. The frustrations involved with the initial months of sober living can be resolved with aftercare. In addition, support is essential for a newly sober addict. Ongoing therapy and participation in support groups are continuing in aftercare.
Depending on the individual need, the aftercare program may include sober living accommodations. Developing the life skills and strategies learned in treatment strengthens self-esteem, and accomplishments incur a sense of pride. In addition, some sober living communities accept animals, and building a bond with an animal helps develop relationship skills.
Drug rehab aftercare can also help with the following:
- Vocational rehabilitation
- Legal assistance
- Educational goals and assistance
- Housing needs
- Ongoing mentoring for mental or physical needs
- Relapse prevention
- Group activities to promote healthy relationship skills
Other proven aftercare programs effective for improving long-term sobriety and preventing relapse can include:
- Continuing therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely effective approach in recovery, while Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) helps individuals manage emotions and develop coping skills. Trauma therapy is essential for addressing underlying issues related to addiction. Additionally, holistic therapies like mindfulness, yoga, and art therapy have proven successful in aftercare, offering relaxation and creative outlets for self-expression.
- Accountability measures: Incorporating regular drug screens, breathalyzers, and other accountability tools helps individuals stay committed to their sobriety goals. These measures promote responsibility and act as a safety net, reassuring individuals that they are on the right path. By implementing structured checks, individuals can build trust in their recovery process and maintain focus on long-term sobriety.
- Case Management: Having a person to connect with when in need is always a promising prospect in aftercare. Some need to be held accountable for making progress. Case management can be a perfect fit for an individualized program.
- Sober living homes: Transitioning back to independent living can be daunting for many individuals after treatment. Sober living homes provide a structured yet flexible environment, allowing residents to ease into their new sober lifestyle.
- Alumni programs: Connecting with others who have shared similar experiences creates a vital support system. These programs foster relationships, allowing individuals to share progress and challenges while promoting a sense of belonging and accountability.
Finding an Aftercare Program for Recovery
Aftercare addiction treatment programs can be specialized and geared toward the substance of abuse. For example, those addicted to alcohol may face a strong urge to drink when confronted with stress, which could tempt them to relapse. Aftercare provides additional support to help navigate those trying times, and peer support group meetings are incredibly effective.
Substance aftercare programs follow up with individuals to ensure all issues are addressed. Many programs check in during week one, month one, and then at three, six, and nine months. They may also conduct psychological assessments to track progress. A review of emerging needs can suggest additional directions for the future. Addiction treatment aftercare is essential for long-term sobriety.
The treatment facility or team that assisted the individual during the initial recovery process can recommend the best aftercare program tailored to their needs. They have observed the treatment journey and can identify potential problem areas. Communities often have specialized programs geared toward aftercare, so checking with local recreation centers, churches, and 12-step groups can provide additional support and meeting options.
Find Addiction Treatment Aftercare in Atlanta, GA
Addiction treatment aftercare programs are available after detox and treatment at Retreat of Atlanta, GA. Our professional staff has experience in helping patients maintain sobriety once their treatment program is complete. We offer comprehensive inpatient detox and residential treatment, and we collaborate with many aftercare facilities to ensure continued support.
Call us now or visit our admissions page to learn how our aftercare programs can help you stay sober and prevent relapse. Your journey to lasting recovery starts here.