Take the next step in the recovery journey.
When a treatment period ends, recovery from drug abuse addiction and mental health issues doesn’t stop. The few months a person spends in a drug or alcohol rehab facility or mental health program provides the foundation for their newfound healthy living, but for many, transitioning back into the “real world” can be more challenging than originally anticipated. Fortunately, there are many resources to help recovering individuals manage their triggers and adjust to life after treatment.
Taking steps to live a healthy lifestyle is a long-term commitment. This process can include a wide variety of treatment options and supports. As part of the continuum of treatment, addiction and mental health aftercare is an integral part of overall recovery.
What Is Aftercare?
Aftercare is the next phase of addiction and mental health rehabilitation, which reinforces the strides you made during the treatment program and the healthy coping mechanisms you discovered on the way. A substantial body of research has found a significant decrease in the rates of relapse among those who take advantage of aftercare services. These can include sober living facilities, follow-up therapy and counseling, medical evaluations and alumni support groups.
Aftercare is a broad term that encompasses any type of ongoing or follow-up treatment that occurs after the initial completion of a treatment program. Regardless of the setting, treatment provider or methods you choose, the overarching goals of addiction and mental health aftercare programs remain the same:
- To maintain lifelong recovery from substance abuse
- To identify and employ strategies for preventing relapse
- To achieve a life filled with rewarding relationships and a sense of purpose
- To learn to effectively manage your mental health issues
- To lead a happier, healthier and more productive life
- To gain independence and learn the life skills necessary to move forward in life
One reason continuing treatment is so important for recovering individuals is that long-term substance use can, in some cases, change brain function at the chemical level. Some of these changes do not instantly reverse once use ends; they can often last long after you have successfully walked away from your addiction and stopped using drugs or alcohol for good. Also, in some cases mental health disorders are life-long illnesses you will need to learn how to manage over time like any other chronic medical condition.
Several key psychological changes accompany the physical impact of addiction – affecting thoughts, feelings and behaviors that may persist even after your body and mind are free from the substance of your choice. The changes associated with addiction – along with their potential lasting impacts to mental and physical health – reaffirm the need for long-term treatment.
Add Aftercare to Your Recovery Plan
R&A Therapeutic Partners can play a strategic role in aftercare planning and support at any stage of the treatment process, providing guidance, monitoring and support to ensure compliance with an aftercare plan. Therapists Raymond Estefania and Ana Moreno can facilitate the transition from a higher level of care to a step-down treatment or supportive living environment. We also offer options for transitional or sober living, outpatient therapy or other support as needed locally, nationally or internationally.
Recovery is a lifelong process that doesn’t end upon completion of detox, rehab and therapy. Get the help you need with our Miami aftercare treatment program. We provide a supportive environment to continually assist you in avoiding triggers and preventing a relapse. Call us today at 786-452-7352 to learn more.
