The purpose of addiction aftercare is to provide patients with ongoing support and guidance following an inpatient program. Aftercare is essential to recovery from addiction and is comprised of a variety of interventions. It can include counseling, group therapy, and 12-step meetings. Twelve-step groups focus on the concept of a higher power and include Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous. Non-12-step groups are available for those who wish to pursue a more secular approach. Aftercare programs also offer case management and peer support services.
Steps in Recovery Process
The following steps in the recovery process are necessary
for each individual's recovery process. The first step is intervention, or a
family member's willingness to initiate treatment. The goal of this service is
to engage family and friends in a discussion of the indicated patient's
circumstances and treatment needs. An intervention process is a series of
questions to help determine the most appropriate approach for each individual.
The outcome of the process will help determine the type of aftercare that is
best suited for a patient's particular situation.
Aftercare
services differ from inpatient programs. Depending on the severity of
the addiction and the person's current level of recovery, aftercare can be
either long-term or short-term. Short-term programs are suitable for
individuals who are not ready to commit to a full-time program but do not want
to miss a few sessions. These programs can be either short- or long-term. The
latter type of aftercare is generally shorter and more convenient than the
former, and can also be used for individuals who may be in treatment for an
acute illness.
