Going through substance abuse treatment is a crucial part of maintaining a sober life. The problem is that so many treatment programs help patients develop skills necessary to overcome their addiction and cope with temptation once released, but they do not give an addict firsthand experience as to how difficult this is actually going to be.
Why is the chance of relapse so high for addicts?
Relapse is a common problem for addicts fresh out of treatment. The possibility of relapse is extremely high immediately after a patient is released from inpatient treatment. During this time, addicts are generally reintroduced to external elements that may have influenced their addiction to begin with. They are likely to see the same people as before treatment and they usually return to the same place as before. During this time, physical and psychological stress levels are at their highest.
In addition to returning to an addict’s typical environment, they are likely to face discrimination from society. This can lead addicts to feel unworthy and devalued. This often causes addicts to have worsening symptoms of depression and social withdrawal and increases an addict’s chance of relapse.
How can addicts help themselves?
In order to ensure continued sobriety after release, it is important for addicts to engage in a strong aftercare program. Doing so will provide addicts a safety net so they can resist cravings and continue on a healthier lifestyle.
A strong program should have both short- and long-term plans in place to ensure continued success. Some key aspects of a strong aftercare program are:
- Regular and continue contact with inpatient treatment specialists. Phone calls, web chats, or in-person meetings should be continued once a patient is released. Together, addicts and specialists can discuss challenges and victories of the addict. This provides an exceptional opportunity for personal development and growth.
- Develop a treatment plan that includes goals and tips. This should entail daily, weekly, and monthly goals so you can continue looking ahead.
- Maintain a strong support group. Inpatient treatment facilities often have some of the best resources for peer support groups that addicts can attend. Nearly every community across the country has groups that meet on a daily or weekly basis and they always welcome new individuals that need help.
- Continue counseling. It is important for addicts to continue receiving psychological and psychiatric help once they are released from inpatient treatment. These treatments will help ensure patients remain on track and continue to develop methods for dealing with addiction and cravings.
Enrolling in an exercise group or program is another way addicts can continue to ensure their sobriety. Replacing harmful substance abuse with a healthy physical activity not only boosts your self-esteem, but it provides a healthy outlet for addicts. At Asana Recovery, we provide inpatient care to patients that prepares them for the next step in recovery. Our outpatient program has several tiers that help patients slowly transition back into work and school and ensures they are strong enough to face the daily challenges of recovery.
Call us at (949) 438-4504 to see how our inpatient and outpatient treatment plans can help you or a loved one today.
