Addiction is a multifaceted, difficult, and exasperating illness, nonetheless active treatment can aid in improving the lives of individuals who are embattled with it.
Addiction treatment does not end after detoxification or an initial rehabilitation programme. Obtaining an addiction-free lifestyle for most, is a long-term commitment.
Recovery can consist of a lot of treatment options and means of support. As a part of the range of treatment and relapse prevention techniques offered during rehab, aftercare programmes for addiction are a vital part of long-term recovery.
The Importance of Aftercare
Even though an initial rehab programme is an important step in the recovery process, it is not enough for continuing self-restraint from alcohol and other addictive substances. Upon effective completion of detox & rehab, most individuals remain active in a treatment programme, whether as part of an extended residential programme or outpatient setting, such as a therapist or support group.
While the timeframe for rehabilitation or any official treatment duration will vary for each individual, continuing recovery efforts are always encouraged long-term.
Addiction treatment programmes like those offered at the Providence Projects, prioritise long lasting recovery by involving the individual and their loved ones in aftercare and family support workshops.
The Goals of Aftercare
Addiction Recovery & Aftercare remains a wide-ranging term which describes any continuing or additional treatment for possible relapse that may occur after the initial rehabilitation programme has been completed. The aims of addiction aftercare comprise of:
- Continued recovery from drug or alcohol use
- Implementing methods to avoid a relapse
- Attaining a life full of rewarding relationships and a life of purpose
One reason that ongoing treatment is important in all circumstances, is that enduring substance abuse may change the usual operation of the brain. A number of these changes do not suddenly change immediately after use has ended.
Addiction and The Body
The physical and psychological impact of addiction takes the form of various alterations in the body. These changes impact feelings, mental state, and behaviours which can persist even when substance abuse is stopped. The bodily alterations related to addiction and their probable lifelong impact to both mental and physical health help to reiterate the necessity for long-term treatment.
Reducing the Risk of Relapse
Like many serious chronic conditions, there is no easy cure for addiction. Relapse is always a possibility, and as treatment providers, our duty is to minimise the risk associated with relapse.
Even with treatment, relapse occurs in 40-60% of addicts. Relapse is more common in people with fewer support networks and more complicated mental health problems. It is important to note that relapse does not mean that the previous treatment was unsuccessful.
It only indicates that the individual would benefit from restarting or modifying their recovery plan. This is why attended residential treatment centres like ours, with an integrated rehab & aftercare programme can benefit many individuals. Upon completion of treatment, individuals will work with the recovery team to create a long-term recovery plan that feels right for them.
Components of Successful Aftercare
Aftercare programmes should consist of the following four components:
-
Health
Health-related initiatives will offer the person in treatment with measures to beat or decrease their main symptoms.
This is often accomplished through a variety of steps including;
- The evaluation for substance use and psychological difficulties
- Medication services for addiction or mental health problems.
- Education
-
Housing
Home services are attentive in ensuring that the person undergoing treatment has stable and supportive housing during and after the programme.
Good aftercare programmes will offer support finding housing, relating to available services, and transferring to appointments. -
Purpose
Intensifying a stronger sense of purpose is related to improved recovery. By means of helping the individual discover meaning through work, education, or family responsibilities, the person in recovery will find motivation to stay away from past, destructive habits.
-
Community
The community phase of aftercare consists of the sense of affection, fitting in, and optimism that arises from solid relationships.
- Shape new communal networks (support groups).
- Advance and repair existing relationships.
- Take part in healthy relationships.
- Discover community involvement and giving back.
What We Provide
Every individual is unique and as such, aftercare and support should be tailored to their individual needs and goals. At the Providence Projects, we offer a variety of support packages ranging from telephone support and advice (included in the cost of treatment) to bespoke recovery coaching services. For those with a long history of substance abuse, aftercare provides an additional layer of protection during the early stages of recovery.
Speak to our addiction counsellors today if you’d like to learn more about how we can support you post-rehab, we want to ensure that all clients and their loved ones understand the importance of maintaining abstinence post-treatment.
