Although millions of people misuse drugs, alcohol, and other substances every day, and a majority of them will face a variety of consequences, drug addiction and substance use disorders are treatable. Recovery can be a reality for those committed to the process. A 2020 study by the CDC estimated that 3 of every 4 Americans will experience addiction. The first step is detoxifying your body from the drug or other harmful substances. Once that’s completed, the patient enters rehab and begins treatment. While different for everyone, treatment often consists of a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. Patients can either enter an inpatient or outpatient rehab program, which suits their needs best. The goal of aftercare in recovery is to promote an independent, drug-free life.
What Happens After Rehab Treatment Ends?
When individuals complete their rehab treatment, whether it’s an inpatient or outpatient program, they’re immediately thrown back into society and asked to live a normal life. Some patients are successful, but others will relapse and end up using drugs or substances again.
The detoxification and rehab process are essential to the overall recovery of the patient, but many rehab centers today have taken notice of the higher-than-desired rate of relapse after rehab treatment ends. These rehab centers understood that something had to be done.
That’s why many rehab centers today offer aftercare in recovery, or relapse prevention programs. This allows rehab facilities to monitor their patients after treatment ends and continue to hold them accountable in the process.
What is the Importance of Aftercare in Recovery?
Rehab aftercare allows for a more effective transition back into society after spending months in treatment. Since it noticeably reduces the chance of relapse in those recovering from addiction, it’s often a highly-recommended step in the recovery process – especially in more severe cases.
Patients in an addiction aftercare program can expect to be involved in group therapy meetings, check-ins with their counselor, attend social gatherings, complete a 12-Step program, or volunteer at nearby establishments.
Let’s take a look at some of the most prominent benefits of aftercare in recovery:
- Decreases a patient’s chance of relapse
- Prevents falling back into old habits or behaviors
- Makes the transition back into society much easier
- Helps individuals find work and school opportunities
- Allows for a continued and sustained support system
- Patients are held accountable, even after leaving treatment
- Gives patients the motivation to apply what they’ve learned
- Patients can continue to build relationships with like-minded individuals
Addiction aftercare plays an important role in helping individuals get back on their feet and find that spark in life again. It can be hard getting back into the swing of things, but aftercare in recovery makes it much more reasonable, feasible, and practical – no matter how severe the addiction.
What are the Types of Aftercare Treatment?
Aftercare treatment comes in many different forms, and there are a number of different types to choose from. They each come with their own unique benefits, so you’ll have to determine which one is best for you and your recovery journey.
Let’s take a look at four of the most popular types of aftercare treatment:
- Outpatient Aftercare – patients live at home and spend 5-20 hours per week taking part in aftercare-related activities.
- Rehab Alumni Program – similar to outpatient aftercare, but you’ll be interacting with a lot of other alumni members.
- Online Aftercare – some rehab facilities offer online aftercare programs that can be completed virtually or remotely.
- 12 Step Program – similar to that of Alcoholics Anonymous, a 12 Step program can help you find peace with yourself.
Some people will only benefit from one type of aftercare treatment, while others might benefit from a combination. Either way, aftercare treatment can provide you with the necessary tools, resources, and support as you continue your journey towards a happier and healthier lifestyle.
How to Find Aftercare in Indiana
Are you searching for a quality rehab facility in Indiana that offers an effective and supportive aftercare program? Do you want to ensure a successful transition back into society after completing treatment? If so, See Purpose may be right for you.
See Purpose offers inpatient treatment near Indianapolis and for the surrounding area. To learn more about our Indiana detox and addiction treatment programs, contact us today.
