When a person completes an addiction treatment program but does not receive the tools needed to maintain sobriety, they may relapse. Relapse refers to returning to substance abuse after an individual has rid their body of drugs or alcohol. Fortunately, an addiction aftercare program can help you or a loved one stay on the path toward long-term recovery.
What is aftercare, exactly? What is an aftercare program, and how can it help? Learn more about the aftercare treatment program at Gulf Breeze Recovery by calling 833.551.2304 today.
What Is Aftercare?
Aftercare programs for substance use are a necessary aspect of treatment that supports individuals who have finished rehab. They typically include a relapse prevention element that can educate you on resources to support your success in recovery.
Drug or alcohol rehab can help you overcome substance dependence, using treatments that target the mind and body. This holistic approach helps individuals learn new coping methods to support overall health.
However, people may lose their support system when treatment ends. Luckily, in an aftercare program, you can receive additional support through educational opportunities and group therapy options. These extra resources can help you know who to call or where to go if you struggle with backsliding, as most individuals do.
Relapse Prevention
But what is aftercare? Relapse prevention and addiction aftercare programs provide specific therapeutic tools that can help you find success after your treatment has ended. Some of the techniques incorporated into addiction aftercare programs may include the following:
- Addressing stress sources so you can deal with them positively
- Meeting the needs of your physical body, including a healthy diet, adequate sleep, and emotional rest
- Giving full consideration to the repercussions of relapse
- Finding out what triggers substance use, which often means treating underlying conditions or recognizing what habits lead to substance use
- Permitting yourself to be human and, despite mistakes, to try to keep doing better
Reverting to habits you previously engaged with may cause severe emotional and physical consequences. You could lose a job, a family member, or even your freedom. Finding out what triggers your behavior and then replacing that behavior with learned therapeutic tools from individual therapy can help support growth.
Aftercare and Relationships
Aftercare is best when you leverage the relationships in your life or forge new ones in sober activities or places like group therapy. When you connect to the stories of others, you can help avoid making the mistakes they have. This can also be true of family. Support your family and friends; they will have a reciprocal and caring relationship with you.
Remember that if you have family and friends who do not support your sobriety, they may not be the best influence during your immediate aftercare. It does not mean you have to cut these people from your life. It means that you need time to recognize the best choices for yourself. You are your own best advocate.
Call Today to Prevent Relapse with Gulf Breeze Recovery’s Aftercare Program
If you have been struggling with addiction, it can be challenging to know where to turn to receive the support you need. Gulf Breeze Recovery offers aftercare programs to support your reintegration into daily life, providing the tools to fight relapse. Our serene environment with panoramic waterfront views and exciting wildlife will give you the peace of mind you need while completing your treatment.
If you need assistance to work through addiction, call us today at 833.551.2304 or complete our online form. We can help guide you through an individualized addiction aftercare program to prevent relapse. Move into a supported recovery process with the help of Gulf Breeze Recovery.