The Importance of Aftercare Following Drug Addiction Counseling, Therapy, or Recovery
Completing a drug rehab program is a major accomplishment. However, upon completion of the program, the work is far from done. Regardless of the type and severity of the problem, anyone working toward drug addiction recovery can benefit from ongoing support after completing a treatment program. Aftercare is designed to make the transition from rehab to normal daily activities easier and help the patient face the weeks and months ahead with confidence as well as the tools they need to avoid relapse.
Aftercare provides continued support and counseling for those struggling with addiction. These programs are typically extensions of inpatient or outpatient drug rehab programs. It’s essential that there is an ongoing recovery process; the patient must recognise that treatment programs cannot totally “cure” them of their addiction. Aftercare services are key to making a successful transition to a new life with fresh ways of thinking and less risk of relapsing into old habits.
Aftercare Following Inpatient Treatment
Aftercare is particularly important for people who have completed residency programs where they have spent every hour of every day for weeks focused on recovery and surrounded by support. Inpatient programs involve schedules, individual and group therapy, and routines that centre on healing and forming new habits. Real life introduces responsibilities, pressures and temptations, and maintaining a reliable support system is critical for at least the first six months or so following rehab – preferably longer.
For some patients, aftercare becomes part of a lifelong health plan. These services may include group meetings, individual counselling, ongoing education, and social activities. Some aftercare programs are male-only, female-only, or teen-only so that each patient receives the best support possible. Some programs are even further categorised according to the type of addiction (alcohol, drugs, or disordered behaviours).
Types of Aftercare
Aftercare is available in a variety of forms. Many drug rehab facilities offer aftercare services immediately following treatment. These services may be short-term, or they may be available indefinitely. Another type of aftercare involves living full-time in a special home with others who have completed rehab and do not feel ready to live on their own yet. People in these sober living homes share responsibilities and support as they prepare to transition back to their independent lives.
However, the most common form of aftercare is outpatient programs, which offer regular support as the patient re-enters daily life. These programs provide opportunities to focus on skills that help prevent relapse, stress management tools, recognising personal triggers, dealing with cravings, and more.
Aftercare Following Drug Addiction Therapy at DayHab
At DayHab, we understand that aftercare is an essential part of recovering from addiction and living a successful life of sobriety. It is the bridge that helps patients implement the skills they’ve learned as they embark upon their new lives. Our aftercare services include drug addiction counseling that focuses on relapse prevention, dealing with fear and resentment, maintaining links with support groups in the community and more. Contact DayHab now if you or someone you love needs help with drug addiction recovery.