If you need it, completing a formal drug or alcohol addiction rehab can be a game-changer to long-term success in recovery. That said, sobriety is often best viewed as an ongoing process rather than something that is simply “complete” one day. Human beings are complex, and it can take years or even a lifetime to be fully free from the effects of addiction. For this reason, putting structures in place to support sobriety post-treatment can be extremely supportive. The benefits of an alumni program for recovery are diverse and exhaustive. At Northpoint Seattle, we’re here to help you at any step of the journey. Call us at 888.483.6031 to connect with a team member about our primary and aftercare options today.
What Happens in An Alumni Program for Recovery from Drug or Alcohol Abuse?
Alumni programs can unite people who have completed the same treatment programs following graduation. This creates a sense of continuity, ongoing support, and the basis for lasting healthy relationships. Alumni programs can operate in a variety of ways, and individuals involved also have a lot of choices about how much and in what ways they participate. The point of alumni networks is not so much to ensure participants all get the same experience as to ensure each individual can access what they need most.
Some alumni offerings are entirely remote. These may include weekly phone call check-ins with a counselor. For patients who prefer to communicate in writing, checking in by email or text may also be an option. Membership in social media support groups on Facebook or other networking services can also be a great way to share news, updates, and supportive feedback with peers. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, more formal group support meetings may take place on video platforms as well.
In-person alumni activities span an even wider gamut of possibilities. Volunteer work has proven to be an especially powerful addition to post-rehab plans since it helps those in recovery invest in something larger than themselves. Alumni may meet up to work at a meal program, pick up trash along highways or waterways, organize clothing drives, or engage in any number of other charitable acts. More formal get-togethers like 12-step programs or other group meetings can also be a great addition to alumni programs. Finally, many members enjoy recreational activities together, such as hikes, baseball games, or potlucks.
What Are Some Major Addiction Alumni Program Benefits?
As in all areas of life, humans are social creatures and peer support makes a world of difference to psychological and emotional well-being. Alumni programs for substance abuse recovery offer many advantages, including:
- Ongoing support and access to professional resources such as addiction counselors
- Drastically reduced odds of relapse during the first few months following formal rehab
- Less social isolation and stigma
- Friendships founded on shared experience and compassion that often carry forward well into the future
- A smoother transition from rehab back into daily commitments and activities involving work, family, hobbies, etc.
- Increased motivation and contentment linked with having recurring joyful activities to look forward to
- The chance not only to have one’s own needs met but also to do good for others through mutually supportive peer relationships and altruistic activities like volunteering
If you are interested in learning about the other benefits of an alumni program for recovery, reach out to the professionals at Northpoint Seattle.
Get More Info About the Alumni Programs for Addiction Recovery at Northpoint Seattle by Calling Today
If you or someone you care about is contemplating or engaged in a formal rehab program, consider the next step of joining an alumni network today. This powerful recovery tool is key for many who are committed to getting the most out of treatment long-term. Call Northpoint Seattle at 888.483.6031 or use our online contact form if you’d like to learn more about our variety of programs and offerings in Washington State.