Graduating from a drug treatment facility is not the end of substance abuse recovery. For most addicts, they will face addiction long after the program has finished, facing cravings and temptations for relapse each day. Luckily, there are many programs available for aftercare to continue the recovery process.
Relapse Recovery Groups
One of the most common forms of aftercare are relapse recovery groups. Relapse recovery groups are located throughout the nation and provide weekly meetings for recovering addicts to meet with other recovering addicts under the guidance of a group counselor for support and continuing education.
12 Step Programs
12 step programs are another common aftercare option for recovering addicts. 12 step programs (such as Alcoholics Anonymous) offer step-by-step instructions, mixed with group support and sponsorship, to help recovering addicts remain sober.
Halfway Houses
Halfway houses can also be used as an aftercare option. Halfway houses act as sober living facilities to provide recovering addicts a safe place to live while making the transition from treatment back into regular life.
Behavioral Therapy
Continuing behavioral therapy can also be an effective form of aftercare. Continuing behavioral therapy allows those recovering from substance abuse the opportunity to continue working with a mental health professional to address and change habits or other aspects of their life that contribute to the desire to use drugs or alcohol.
Maintenance
In more serious cases, aftercare may also include drug maintenance programs. This is especially true for those addicted to heroin or other opiates who require methadone maintenance to remain sober.
Tags: recovering addicts, aftercare option, Continuing behavioral, Continuing behavioral therapy, Halfway houses