According to a report published by the SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration), nearly 139.8 million Americans ages 12 and older used alcohol within one month of the 2018 survey. That report further indicates that, during 2018, nearly 20.3 Americans 12 years and older suffered from SUD (substance use disorder). In this guide, we’re discussing the benefits of aftercare for those who are in a substance abuse treatment program.

What’s an Aftercare Program?

Before understanding the benefits of aftercare, you must understand its definition first. After an individual successfully goes through detox and withdrawals from a substance, their addiction treatment doesn’t end. Instead, they have the opportunity to participate in an aftercare program. The benefits of an aftercare program start with individuals receiving ongoing treatment services after achieving sobriety.

According to the National Institute of Health, despite 10% of Americans experiencing a substance use disorder at least one point in their lives, as much as 75% are not receiving treatment. As many as 60% of individuals in recovery could relapse. However, those participating in an aftercare program are less susceptible to relapsing compared to those who don’t participate in them.

The Benefits of Aftercare

Choosing an aftercare program for continued addiction recovery is beneficial for the following reasons:

  • It’s easier to transition from treatment into everyday life
  • You’ll have a support system you can count on around you
  • Aftercare programs teach essential life skills
  • Your odds of long-term recovery dramatically improves

Additional benefits of aftercare include receiving anger management skills, job skills, and the additional support that’s necessary for controlling addictions. Those in recovery learn that they have the skills and power to thrive without abusing substances. Embracing the benefits of aftercare means that those in recovery receive the help they need beyond that of participating in a treatment program.

The support and resources available during and after aftercare programs are crucial for long-term addiction recovery. Staying active in addiction recovery lowers the risk of relapse and helps you find help faster when relapse occurs.

Examples of Aftercare Programs

The benefits of aftercare extend into the many opportunities that are available to those following treatment. Examples of such programs include:

How to Choose an Aftercare Program

It’s terrific to have many options available, but that can also be overwhelming to those in recovery. Focus on aftercare programs that feature fun sober activities, anger management courses, educational resources, job placement, and support groups. Those who are in recovery are the ones who can make the best decision regarding which aftercare program is right for them. An addiction treatment specialist can help you find local programs and connect you with their leaders.

The Importance of Aftercare

You’ll decrease your likelihood of relapsing when committing to an aftercare program. During these programs, you learn coping skills. You also receive guidance regarding successful ways of transitioning into a healthy life. That way, there’s no temptation to transition using substances. Aftercare programs are also an excellent opportunity for those who are in recovery to involve their families. That way, they receive the additional support they need.

Final Thoughts on the Benefits of Aftercare

Do you or someone you know have questions about the benefits of aftercare or alumni programs? Are you currently in substance abuse treatment and have concerns about what it’s going to be like when you finish? No one should have to navigate these transitions of sobriety alone. Contact Renaissance Recovery by calling 866.330.9449 to learn more about how aftercare is beneficial, as well as how addiction treatment programs can help.

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