Detox and addiction treatment to overcome alcohol and substance use disorders is just the first step. The next step in the recovery process is to make an addiction aftercare plan. Without an aftercare plan in place, the risk of relapse is much higher. This is because individuals do not have the ongoing support and guidance they need to maintain their recovery long-term.

The Purpose of an Addiction Aftercare Plan

The primary purpose of an addiction aftercare plan is to provide individuals with a “roadmap” to recovery post-rehab release. Much like someone gets discharge instructions after surgery, an addiction aftercare plan is similar. Usually, an aftercare plan will include:

A list of resources
Outpatient treatment program options
Current appointments schedule
Where to get help when it is needed
Important phone numbers
A relapse prevention plan
What to do should someone relapse

Remember that each person’s aftercare plan will be unique to their specific needs. Their plan can include topics that another person’s may not.

How to Make an AACP

Before completing an addiction treatment program, individuals get assistance with making an AACP (addiction aftercare plan). The first step is identifying potential triggers, such as people, places, and things that could cause relapse. Next, it is vital to list coping strategies that can be used to manage situations and avoid relapse.

The next step is to have a solid support system in place. This could include peer support, group meetings, family and friends, and others who can provide support when needed. Many rehab centers offer alumni programs, which can be included in AACPs. It is also beneficial to continue outpatient therapy and counseling sessions. These help individuals to refine and enhance their coping skills.

In addition, an AACP should include an outline of a structured daily routine. The outline should include work, socializing, hobbies, exercise, meal times, bedtimes, and waking times. Maintaining a structured routine can help reduce the risk of relapse. Lastly, the plan should include short-term and long-term goals and objectives.

What Should Someone Include in Theirs?

The precise items in an individual’s AACP depend on their specific needs. When creating a personalized AACP, it is best to work with psychiatrists, counselors, and other addiction specialists. Equally important is to remember that an AACP is not set in stone. AACPs are meant to be changed and updated as the individual’s needs, goals, and objectives change.

Addiction Aftercare Plan Tools

Several effective addiction aftercare plan tools can be used to create personalized plans. These tools make it easier to formulate a plan, stick to it, and adjust it when necessary. Below are examples of such tools.

Goal Setting

Goal setting is a vital part of recovery. A person should have both short-term and long-term goals and objectives, which can vary based on the individual’s needs. For example, staying sober for a set number of days could be a short-term goal.

A long-term goal could be maintaining sobriety for a set number of weeks or months. Other goals people can include in their AACP are returning to school, improving their career, or establishing meaningful relationships.

Creating a Healthy Lifestyle

Another tool to use is creating a healthy lifestyle plan. People should include:

Healthy meal plans
Associating with other sober people
Daily exercise routines
Hobbies and activities they enjoy
Participating in sober social activities
Establishing and maintaining healthy boundaries

Self-Care and Therapy

Self-care and therapy are also effective rehab tools people need to use as part of their aftercare plans. They should set aside time each day for meditation and mindfulness practices.

They must also prioritize their physical and mental health and well-being above others. Additionally, they should get plenty of restful sleep and include outdoor activities they enjoy.

Relapse Prevention Plans

Between 40 and 60% of people relapse while in recovery from substance use disorders, as reported by NIDA. Relapse prevention plans are a crucial component of an effective addiction aftercare plan.

A relapse prevention plan is an outline to provide guidance when a person is feeling triggered and could potentially relapse. People with relapse prevention plans can reduce the risk of relapse.

Making A Relapse Prevention Plan

During triggering stressful periods, it can be challenging to concentrate and focus on what to do. Usually, a person will have written down specific steps to follow when they make their relapse prevention plan, such as:

Call their sponsor
Attend a meeting
Attend a therapy session
Get out of a triggering situation
Call a peer support buddy
Use mindfulness techniques
Apply specific coping skills

Even with a relapse prevention plan in place, it does not guarantee a person will avoid relapse. However, relapses should not be viewed as failures. Addiction is a chronic disease, and for some people, relapse is a part of their recovery journey.

It is normal to feel guilty, shameful, and regretful after relapsing. Acknowledging the relapse and viewing it as a learning experience is better. Ask what went wrong and why coping skills and the relapse prevention plan didn’t work. Work on modifying the AACP and relapse prevention plan to develop more effective coping strategies. Doing so can help strengthen one’s resolve to restore their sobriety and continue their recovery journey.

Find Gender-Specific Rehab and Aftercare Planning in Ohio

At Ohio Addiction Recovery Center, we provide comprehensive and personalized gender-specific rehab programs. Our caring and supportive team can help you start your recovery from alcohol or drugs. Our individualized care plans include aftercare planning and continued support to help you maintain sobriety long-term.