Whether you're planning for your recovery or you're helping a loved one with aftercare, there are a few things to consider. These include setting goals, finding social outlets, and relapse prevention.

Peer support

Providing peer support as part of aftercare planning is an important way to empower individuals in recovery and encourage self-management of chronic health conditions. This can include providing information about supportive services, assisting individuals in crisis situations, and connecting people to treatment and recovery. The benefits of peer support include improving wellness, increasing resiliency, and promoting long-term recovery.

The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recognizes peer support as an evidence-based practice. It has incorporated the services into state Medicaid plans in more than 37 states. The agency also works to develop and formalize the peer specialist workforce.

Peer support services are provided by people in recovery and are generally delivered during treatment or after care. They help promote recovery, self-determination, empowerment, and education. These services are offered by appropriately licensed behavioral health agencies.

Goal-setting

Having a plan to achieve your goals is a great way to ensure that you make it through the rehabilitation process. It also helps to create a sense of purpose and direction for your life. It's hard to be excited about your future if you're not sure where to start.

For patients, goal-setting can be a daunting task. They may want to set long-term goals for their recovery, but they may not know how to break them down into smaller, more manageable steps. The SMART model (see below) is a great way to do just that.

The SMRT acronym stands for "Specific, Measurable, Attainable, and Rewarding" and provides a comprehensive framework for setting and achieving goals.

The most important part of any goal-setting process is to set achievable goals. Having a clear, measurable step-by-step plan will increase your chances of success.

Relapse prevention

Developing a relapse prevention plan is a critical step in achieving long term sobriety. The process is a combination of individual and group therapy. It is also important to engage the family in the process.

A relapse occurs when a person resumes the behaviors they stopped using in treatment. For example, you may be tempted to smoke after a short period of sobriety. Aftercare planning entails creating daily routines to prevent such situations.

The process includes a combination of individual and group therapy, as well as self help. The main objective is to create a daily routine that will serve as a foundation for the client's long term sobriety.

A relapse prevention plan also contains an appropriate number of recommendations about local support groups and other avenues for support. The aftercare process can include setting up the client with community programs and a supportive circle of friends and relatives.