WHAT IS AFTERCARE?
Drug and alcohol addiction are chronic conditions. Aftercare programs provide ongoing support for clients who have completed the intensive portions of their addiction treatment.
There are many different types of aftercare programs and activities, allowing individuals to choose aftercare that is ideal for their schedule and preferences.
Relapse can remain a potent threat to recovery for months, even years. Aftercare provides the helpful support clients need to achieve lasting recovery.
CREATING AN AFTERCARE PLAN
As a chronic health condition, addiction must be managed long-term. With an aftercare plan in place, individuals can effectively manage their condition in order to safeguard their well-being and prevent relapse. Just as a heart patient might leave the hospital with a plan for ongoing care, a person who completes addiction treatment requires aftercare planning that includes:
- Understanding of the severity and chronic nature of their condition
- Identification of challenges to their ongoing treatment and support needs
- Outpatient treatment goals and expectations
- A self-management plan that’s realistic and convenient
- Steps to take in the event that triggers to use drugs or alcohol reappear
- A plan to regroup and obtain support if relapse occurs
TYPES OF AFTERCARE PROGRAMS
Resurgence features aftercare programs that benefit the long-term recovery process. It’s not uncommon for clients to experience relapse triggers after completing their treatment programs. Aftercare provides individuals with support, helping them to maintain their recovery and meet inevitable challenges and threats to their recovery with success.
Alumni Programs
Alumni programs are intended for clients who have completed their inpatient or outpatient treatment programs and wish to maintain an ongoing relationship with our rehab, therapists, and their peers who are also continuing their recovery journey. This type of program provides ongoing support for clients who are striving to maintain lasting recovery.
Recovery from addiction doesn’t stop after treatment, and that’s why Resurgence Behavioral Health’s voluntary alumni program helps past clients stay in touch and help each other in their recovery journeys. Be a part of the conversation by joining the alumni Facebook group or participating in an alumni recovery virtual meeting.
Support Groups
Peer support groups that are therapist-led provide an important form of ongoing support for clients. During support group sessions, therapists may focus on education, addiction-related topics or allow clients to discuss relevant topics or challenges they’re facing in their day-to-day lives. This type of support helps to develop new strategies for maintaining sobriety.
Ongoing Therapy
Addiction doesn’t end with the completion of a treatment program. Many people benefit from meeting with a therapist on a routine basis to help them maintain their recovery plan and get support when their triggers to abuse alcohol or drugs reappear. Ongoing therapy can reduce the risk of relapse and improve a person’s quality of life.
