What is Aftercare?
The definition of aftercare is not very complex; Simply put it refers to any subsequent interventions that take place after the treatment program is over. Usually in any drug rehab program, aftercare commonly means the additional support that is extremely necessary once the patient is released from the residential part of the program. This type of aftercare support is immensely necessary because it helps in reducing the risk of the patient going into a relapse. Aftercare can be given in the form of different ways that include:
- Support groups
- Counseling
- Booster sessions
- Follow up meetings
Apart from the above mentioned methods, debriefings, teaching new skills, and coping strategies are other ways that may be used after successful completion of an addiction treatment program.
Why Aftercare is Important in Addiction Recovery
Getting rid of an addiction habit is not an easy task, according to health surveys almost 50% of addiction patients who get through the initial addiction rehab program will relapse. Once the initial stage of the rehab is over and the user is successful in getting rid of the habit, they may wrongly believe that there problems with addiction are over. It is true that taking help for addiction is a big step and kicking the step is a big achievement but this is not the end of the road for you. In fact, in the long journey of recovery the real work starts at the end of the treatment program. Aftercare plays an important role in helping the patient minimize the risk of going into relapse. If a patient goes into relapse after kicking his habit once, getting rid of it again is an extremely difficult task. This is why aftercare is a very important part of the treatment program.
Types of Aftercare
There are many types of aftercare program. Most of the residential drug and alcohol rehab programs offer it as their part of the rehab program. However, other programs are also available that an individual can arrange and take himself. Different aftercare programs include:
- Sober living homes
- Twelve steps programs
- Support groups
- Booster sessions
- Counseling sessions
- Dual diagnosis support