What is Aftercare?
After successfully overcoming drug addiction by going through detox and withdrawal, it’s important to continue with ongoing treatment to maintain sobriety. Aftercare is a type of ongoing support provided to individuals recovering from drug addiction after they’ve initially become sober. This support can come in the form of inpatient rehab or intensive outpatient rehab services.
Around 10% of adults in the United States face issues with substance use disorders, and the chances of relapse for these disorders can be as high as 60%. However, individuals who make use of aftercare services tend to have lower relapse rates compared to those who don’t participate in such programs.
What Kinds of Support Programs Are There for People Recovering from Drug Addiction?
Drug addiction is an illness, and each person’s reasons for it can be different. The best support programs are the ones that are personalized to fit the needs and situations of each individual. Here are some common types of aftercare programs:
12-Step Programs
These programs happen in groups where people share their experiences voluntarily. Examples include Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous. In these groups, individuals in recovery find a supportive environment where they can get encouragement and advice. The group setting helps create a sense of camaraderie, offering a safe and confidential space to develop effective strategies for handling stress and managing their condition.
Outpatient Treatment Programs
These programs are more intensive and tailored to each person’s unique needs. They may start right after someone leaves an inpatient rehab facility or following detox and withdrawal. For individuals with less severe addiction or a shorter history of addiction, they might go directly from detox to outpatient treatment.
What Other Help Is Available in Aftercare Programs?
If someone has struggled with drug addiction, they often face ongoing challenges in staying sober. Finding a job, getting safe housing, and dealing with legal issues can be tough. Stress and worry can also trigger a relapse. Aftercare programs offer support and resources to help people lead a drug-free, less stressful life. These resources include:
- Help with finding a job and career support.
- Legal advice and support.
- Long-term support during major life changes.
- Case management to navigate challenges.
- Monitoring substance use.
- Coaching and setting goals.
- Building a supportive community.
- Academic support.
- Assistance with financial planning and budgeting.
Unlike the withdrawal and detox phase, aftercare involves less direct support from doctors. Once someone safely detoxes, they need guidance and encouragement to stay sober, which aftercare programs provide through experienced therapists, counselors, and social workers.
Outpatient programs provide access to group counseling and individual therapy sessions with trained counselors and addiction therapists. In group counseling, patients can learn from others’ experiences and develop important social and coping skills in a supportive environment. Individual therapy is crucial for helping those with additional mental health conditions manage both their drug addiction and sobriety.
How Can People Who Are Dealing with Drug Addiction Find Ongoing Support Programs?
Many rehab centers and detox facilities in Los Angeles provide programs to support patients even after they finish their initial treatment. It’s important for patients to use these programs once they’ve achieved initial sobriety.
Aftercare support helps them adjust to life outside the treatment center, making the recovery process less overwhelming. Successfully adapting to life after treatment can boost patients’ confidence, helping them stay sober and avoid drugs and alcohol. Most people in recovery typically use aftercare support for three to six months, but these programs can last longer if needed.
If you’re struggling with addiction and unsure where to get help, Transcend Recovery Community offers personalized aftercare support programs for drug addiction. Our team has assisted many individuals in achieving and maintaining sobriety. Feel free to reach out to Mission Harbor today for information on outpatient support programs and to explore your treatment options.