Recovery doesn’t end after treatment and re-entering normal life can be difficult. Your outlook in life may change. A lot of things in your life may no longer be the way they were prior to when you went for treatment. People facing life after residential treatment may have conflicting emotions: They may be excited to live substance-free, but the end of treatment can also bring fear of having a relapse and concerns about how to stay sober when daily routines and relationships resume. Adjusting to life after treatment can be difficult. You may no longer have the constant support of counselors and peers. You may find yourself in difficult situations that make you want to use again.
Make a post-treatment plan
Whether you’re returning home after a residential treatment programme, at an inpatient facility or reaching the end of an outpatient programme, it is important to develop a plan to maintain sobriety. You will work with your treatment provider to define how you’ll stay on track in recovery. For many people, a plan that includes continuing care after treatment improves their chances of staying off drugs or alcohol.Extra support needed
Manage situations that may trigger the desire to use drugs or drink alcohol and avail of post-treatment support. This is also called continuing care, aftercare, or recovery support services. This care is typically overseen by trained professionals, such as case managers and recovery coaches, and may include any combination of the following:- Individual or group counselling or therapy
- Support groups
- Medication
- Recovery checkups in-person or by phone
- Drug testing and feedback
- Services related to employment, housing, legal needs, and relationships
Gather your support team
Friends and family members often ask how to help someone after treatment and these people can be a key part of your recovery team. As part of your post-treatment plan, list the people who you can rely on for healthy support and encouragement. Build relationships with people who can help you stick to your plan for recovery. Find support or self-help groups with other people in recovery. They can also help you adjust to life after your treatment programme. At the same time, avoid people in your life who misuse drugs or alcohol. Being around them can make you want to start using again.Practice a healthy lifestyle
Long-term lifestyle changes that focus on overall health and wellness have proven benefits for people in recovery. Find an exercise option that works for you. Exercise can help you feel better, provide a distraction from cravings and help reduce stress — which can be a trigger for relapse. Maintain a healthy diet to provide your body with energy and nutrients.Consider recovery housing
Recovery housing is a drug and alcohol-free environment in a home or residential complex. It can be a good option for people who have completed treatment but need additional support while adapting to their new life. These short-term programmes usually provide supervision and peer support. People living in recovery housing may be encouraged or required to attend a 12-step programme and connect with community groups that offer employment, health care, legal support and social services.Recognise and manage triggers
It is important to recognise situations that trigger cravings because they may lead to relapse after rehab. Keep a list of triggers to help you avoid them or cope in healthy ways. Triggers may include:- Stress and life challenges
- People who used drugs or alcohol with you in the past, or who are using now
- Homes, workplaces, bars, schools, neighbourhoods and other places where you have used drugs or alcohol
- Situations or feelings that are like the ones you experienced when you used drugs or alcohol, such as certain times of day, emotions, social activities, smells, and sounds
