What to Expect After Drug Rehab

Drug rehab programs can last for weeks or even months. After treatment, people need to adjust to life in the real world again. People face numerous challenges as they make the transition.

Aftercare

• Rehab centers generally refer patients to aftercare programs following discharge from rehab. Aftercare may consist of individual and group counseling sessions, education and 12-step groups like Narcotics Anonymous.

12-Step Groups

• Rehab centers often strongly encourage people to participate in 12-step groups like Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous after completing a drug rehab program. In fact, it is often suggested that people attend 90 meetings in 90 days when just embarking on the road to sobriety.

Living Arrangements

• Many people return home after completing drug rehab. However, some people may need additional support and benefit from a halfway house or transitional living program.

Facing Temptation

• People face many temptations after leaving drug rehab. They often experience stress as they return to their normal lives and they are faced again with friends or acquaintances that use drugs and may encourage them to do so.

Relationships

• Drug addiction affects a person's relationships. Friends and family members may feel angry about the addict's behavior while under the influence so the addict may need to reestablish trust. The addict may need to find new friends, too, that do not use drugs.