When an addict leaves a drug and alcohol treatment facility, the journey back to a normal life may not be over. Temptations and stressful situations remain in the outside world, and an addict who has just finished the detoxification, rehabilitation and recovery processes wants to remain clean and sober. That's when follow-up or aftercare plays a role. Treatment facilities usually provide aftercare programs so addicts can stay in touch with counselors or get involved in other programs to avoid falling back into the addiction cycle.
Offsite Care
Aftercare may include regular phone contact with the facility or appointments at the treatment center to talk with a counselor or therapist. Group meetings are often an option to continue encouragement and support as the addict adjusts to new connections in a new life. Some patients may ask for referrals from the treatment center for therapists or counselors outside the facility.
Living Facilities
Aside from periodic connections with the facility or counselors, many treatment centers offer sober living facilities where addicts remain at the facility for aftercare. The addict is able to continue sobriety in a protected environment. Counseling and support are offered, but the scheduled programs that occurred during treatment are not generally offered. In this setting, the addict can continue to attend meetings or 12-step support programs and to make the transition into a new life free from drugs or alcohol.
Choice
Choosing onsite or offsite aftercare services is up to each addict, according to Michael's House, a treatment facility in Palm Springs, California. It depends on the addict's home environment and on whether or not outside triggers could interfere with the gains that were made through treatment. An addict with strong connections to friends and family may receive strong support, so the addict can live offsite and continue aftercare on a periodic basis.
Therapy
Continued therapy is an aftercare option following treatment. Mental health issues may still have to be dealt with after an addict conquers drug and alcohol problems. There may be concerns the addict needs to talk over in the weeks or months following rehab treatment. This will help prevent any return to the underlying problems that may have caused the drug or alcohol addiction, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Support Groups
Joining support groups and meeting on a weekly basis is another aftercare step that strengthens recovery. This helps an addict feel comfortable in a new environment. Group sessions are important during treatment and new groups can be just as valuable following treatment.
