Recovering from a drug or alcohol addiction is a lifelong process. Going to a treatment facility is the first step for many recovering addicts, but it is only one step. To lead a fulfilling sober life, you should attend aftercare.
If you struggle with substance abuse disorder, you are anything but alone. Millions of Americans struggle with drug abuse addiction. Though addiction has the power to ruin lives, recovery is possible. Addiction is a chronic illness, just like arthritis, depression, or autoimmune diseases. While addiction does not have miracle “cures,” you can overcome. Methods like rehab, talk therapy, and medication management help people stay sober.
Like with any chronic illness, all affected individuals must have access to a team of specialists for ongoing maintenance. A person with an autoimmune disease would not receive a diagnosis then leave their condition to destroy them. Similarly, individuals with SUD must continue to treat their disorder.
Addiction doesn’t end the moment a person graduates from an outpatient rehab facility. To maintain sobriety and good health, you must consider addiction aftercare.
Achieving even the smallest milestone of sobriety is a huge accomplishment. But, unfortunately, treatment for addiction doesn’t stop after a successful detox and withdrawal from drugs. Addiction aftercare is an ongoing treatment service that is recommended to people with substance abuse disorder who have already achieved sobriety.
Aftercare has a broad definition. For some people, aftercare begins after detox at an inpatient rehab facility or intensive outpatient rehab program. After rehab, addiction aftercare could be a 12-step program or cognitive behavioral therapy.
In a nutshell, addiction aftercare is a plan to help those with SUD avoid relapse in their early recovery and work toward their life goals.
If you have recently completed an inpatient program, an aftercare program might be the logical next step. This type of program can help you manage your triggers in a real-life environment and help you discover the best coping mechanisms to prevent relapse.
Approximately 10 percent of American adults struggle with some form of substance abuse disorder. Relapse rates hover at an intimidating 60 percent. Patients who commit to addiction aftercare services experience a lower relapse rate than addicts who neglect continued care.
A good aftercare plan includes resources, activities, and interventions to help the recovering individual cope with triggers, cravings, stress, and lifestyle transitions. Since addiction manifests differently for everyone, your aftercare plan will vary based upon your unique challenges.
Developing an aftercare plan in early recovery can help you avoid relapse. Aftercare provides support and allows you to address the issues surrounding your addiction. Once you are established in your sobriety, your aftercare could shift toward giving back to those who are newly sober.
As your time in treatment comes to a close, you will likely meet with case managers and counselors who will aid you in setting up your aftercare plan. If you have the means to, you can also enlist an outside addiction professional to craft a plan.
When designing your aftercare plan, your therapist will help you consider your circumstances. Whether you need to find housing, employment, or continued treatment will all be addressed. The details of your plan will be determined by how far you are in your recovery and the intensity of care you require.
Once you establish your needs and goals, you can work with your specialist to find resources in your community or online. For example, if sober housing is crucial to recovery, finding the right sober living facility will be step one of your plan.
Most rehab facilities run their own aftercare programs. However, the scope of these programs can vary. Some facilities provide sober living arrangements, follow-up therapy, alumni support groups, and medical evaluations.
To learn more about aftercare services available at Lift Off Recovery, call 714-844-2858.
Therapy and counseling are an integral part of inpatient rehab. Continuing therapy after leaving rehab is crucial. Sober individuals are recommended to attend weekly or bi-weekly sessions. Depending on your needs, group therapy or individual therapy, or a blend may work best. For addicts also diagnosed with a mental health condition, therapy is especially effective.
We advise that all recovering addicts attend support groups, especially in early sobriety. Support groups are groups of substance abusers who gather and discuss shared issues.
Issues discussed in support groups can range from cravings to how medications impact their daily lives. Support groups offer a judgment-free atmosphere where members feel understood. They provide a sense of stability for people to fall back on in hard times. Most support groups are 12-Step Programs, such as Alcoholics Anonymous.
A sober living home is a supportive living environment for individuals recovering from addiction. Some are associated with rehabs or government programs, but most are independently operated. Sober living homes are predominantly available in Southern California.
Living in a sober home will increase your chances of staying sober. Most recovering people enlist in sober living for a year or under, but there are long-term options. While in a sober living facility, you will have to follow house rules. These rules include: staying sober, meeting curfew, and participating in group activities.
When you choose the right program, you have many resources available to beat this illness and get the life skills you need to build a more fulfilling life. At Lift Off Recovery, we take a comprehensive approach to care. Our goal is not just to treat your addiction but to help you build a life you love.
We help you get the resources you need to get a better job. When you have the support you need to not only manage your addiction but create a better future, you are much less likely to relapse.
If you are ready to take the next step, give us a call. All calls are confidential, and our caring staff is happy to answer any questions.
Take the first step and contact us today. Our admissions specialists are ready to help you get the care you need. We can help you figure out how to pay for treatment and what level of care is right for you.
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