Finishing a drug and alcohol rehab program is a great life achievement. Patients have gone through detoxification, intense counseling and have learned to live a new life that discourages their old unhealthy behavior patterns. Most drug and alcohol rehabilitation centers give their graduates the skills needed to maintain a healthy, sober and functioning life. However, the recovery process doesn’t stop once a patient leaves the facility. He or she may need to attend meetings regularly and may also want to keep in touch with rehab counselors or attendees to make sure everyone is staying on track.
Most drug and alcohol rehabilitation centers offer their patients aftercare and counseling once they get home. If patients live far from the facility, some counselors may offer their services by phone. When the patient feels overwhelmed by everyday life, he or she may just need to speak with a counselor from the facility to calm nerves and build strength. Program attendees may also feel bonded to other patients and may share contact information. After completion of the program, these former rehab patients may find comfort in speaking with each other or meeting up with each other. They can share their experiences and fears in being back to their normal schedules and may offer each other support in staying on track. There are also outside programs that are available to help a patient to adjust to the environment at home. Some companies offer a sober person to spend time with a recent rehab graduate to help with the transition. The companion is available day or night and can support the addict in having fun and learning how to live free of drugs or alcohol.
Another option for those who have completed a rehab program is meetings. There are many groups that offer free and informative meetings for those who are in recovery. Speaking to many people in the same situation who have also recently left drug and alcohol rehabilitation facilities can help recent graduates to feel supported. Some of these groups, such as Alcoholic Anonymous may encourage newer members to partner up with established members. This established member will be considered the newer member’s “sponsor.” He or she is committed to being available to the newer member as a support in tough times. The sponsor is helpful to offer advice and guidance while the newer member is transitioning from rehab back to real life.
Drug and alcohol rehabilitation centers not only focus on taking patients through the program but they also focus on the plan patients have once the program is completed. Counselors and addiction specialists know how important it is for an addict who has completed the program to maintain a strong line of communication with counselors or other rehab graduates. Sober companions, sponsors, local meetings and close contact with program counselors can be extremely helpful for an addict to maintain a sober lifestyle.