I have yet to come across a drug and alcohol rehab facility that does not prepare a discharge plan for those patients completing their inpatient treatment. While the treatment may have ended at the particular facility, recovery is a life-long process and must be addressed before leaving the facility.

There are a wide variety of components that may be included in the discharge plan. The plan might include a step down from inpatient to intensive outpatient or outpatient treatment. The patient might transition directly to a sober living environment. There might be a recommendation to begin sessions with an outside therapist. In any event, the goal is to continue with as much treatment and recovery-related activities following the discharge from inpatient care.

Treatment centers that employ a 12 step philosophy may include a suggestion to regularly attend AA meetings and obtain a sponsor. AA offers an excellent opportunity to engage in fellowship and support during the recovery process and is a well respected adjunct to aftercare.

Most treatment centers will encourage the family to participate in their own recovery. Family participation in the program helps heal the long-standing suffering typically endured by the family and helps set up healthy boundaries and guidelines in the event of a relapse.

The treatment team at the rehab center may also make suggestions regarding creating a healthy home environment (cleaning out the house of drugs/alcohol), evaluating the patient’s work environment, screening friends and other suggestions designed to foster healthy living and long-term sobriety.

The above referenced is but a few of the possibilities included in a discharge plan typically prepared for the newly discharged patient from an inpatient facility. The important concept is to understand that recovery doesn’t end after the patient walks out the front door of the rehab facility. It is a life-long process.

For information on interventions, visit www.stevenlodgeinterventions.com or call 866 534 4443.