How Does Drug Rehab Aftercare Work?
After a successful struggle with detox and treatment, the topic of drug rehab aftercare has emerged in your conversations. Finally, when you believe you have reached the goal, there is another option to consider. While drug rehab aftercare may be a surprise, the truth about how hard it will be to maintain sobriety is no secret. However, drug rehab aftercare dramatically increases the chances of long-term sober living. In addition, preventing relapse is never a waste of time or energy.
Drug rehab 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 give an added boost of confidence needed to prevent relapse.
What is Drug Rehab 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.
Drug rehab aftercare is another tool to maintain momentum and motivation in an early sober experience. The addict 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.
Is Drug Rehab 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 Drug Rehab 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 is traditional and has been the most popular therapy. Holistic therapies have also proved successful in aftercare programs. Art therapy could provide relaxation and spur a new hobby.
- 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: Some may need more time to be ready to start a solo living arrangement after the treatment. Sober living homes provide structure and freedom beyond inpatient treatment centers.
- Alumni programs: Keeping in touch with others in treatment is an incredible support structure. Sign up for these programs when available.
Finding an Aftercare Program for Recovery
Aftercare drug rehab programs can be specialized and geared toward the abused substance. For example, for those addicted to alcohol, a strong urge to drink when faced with stress could tempt the addict to drink and relapse. Aftercare is additional support to help get through those trying times. Peer support group meetings are incredibly successful.
Substance aftercare rehab programs follow up with the addict to ensure all issues have a resolution. Some program services check back in week one, month one, and then at three, six, and nine months. Programs can run psychological assessments to see the progress of the journey. A review of emerging needs can suggest additional directions for the future. Drug rehab aftercare is an essential part of the longevity of sobriety.
The treatment facility or team that worked with the addict to resolve the initial treatment process can advise the best aftercare program for the addict’s needs. They observed the treatment process and can identify potential problem areas. Communities have special programs geared toward aftercare rehab programs. Checking with the community recreation centers, churches, and 12-step groups will provide more support possibilities for meetings and support.
Find Drug Rehab Aftercare in Atlanta, GA
Drug rehab aftercare programs are available after detox and treatment with Retreat of Atlanta, GA. Our professional staff has experience in helping our patients maintain sobriety after their treatment program is over. In addition, we are familiar with programs throughout the area that can offer additional support group meetings. Contact us now to stay sober and prevent relapse by participating in our aftercare programs.