Tag Archives: Family Aftercare for drug addiction in BC

Continuing Care And Aftercare – Drug And Alcohol Rehab In Vancouver, BC : Part 02

Drug, opiate and alcohol rehab aftercare and continuing care in Vancouver, Victoria and Kelowna, British Columbia – Options Okanagan Treatment Centers in Kelowna, British Columbia treating opiate and alcohol addiction and recovery.

Part 02
Assistance For The Family

An aftercare and continuing care program provides family members of a recovering addict with instruction and support. There is often a lot of tension between the recovering addict and the family, which is due to events that took place during the drug use period. At other times, the person is struggling to blend into having a “normal life” which can be stressful for family members. In both of these situations, an aftercare program and provide advice and counseling for family members to help them cope with this difficult time.

Opiate addiction and drug abuse and Addiction Aftercare and Continuing Care in Vancouver

Family members may be provided with some or all of the following aftercare services:

a) One-on-one counseling sessions for children, spouses or partners
b) Group therapy meetings for members of the family
c) Educational programs that provide information regarding the nature of mental illness and addiction
d) 12-step programs such as Nar-Anon or Al-Anon for members of the family of recovering addicts

People Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare and Continuing Care in Vancouver

Mental illness and addiction may create financial instability and emotional conflict within a household. Some families might need help with practical matters such as transportation, childcare, nutritional counseling and job placement. Others might need education to help prevent younger members of the family from falling victim to substance abuse. One of the main goals of family aftercare is to create a healthy home environment for every household member.

A Place To Talk

The channel of communication that is opened up for a recovering addiction is another very valuable component of aftercare and continuing care programs. After going back home following rehab a person has a lot that they go through. New habits need to learned, they have to stop hanging out with their old drug friends, and must rebuild their careers and relationships. That’s a lot to deal with, and an aftercare program provides a place to talk about all of these issues with individuals who can provide guidance and understand what they are going through.

Dual Diagnosis support groups have been designed to meet the needs of individuals with co-occurring psychiatric disorders and substance abuse. Specific challenges can be posed by having a co-occurring disorder, like anxiety over social situations, having difficulties focusing for longer periods of time and low motivation levels.

Men Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare and Continuing Care in Vancouver

Members that are part of a Dual Diagnosis aftercare group are provided with advice and support on various issues they are facing in recovery, including:

a) Finding resources within the community
b) Locating and maintaining employment
c) Building stronger relationships with family members and friends
d) Developing coping strategies for mental illness and addition
e) Taking psychotherapeutic medication

The stronger the support system you have, the better your chances are of having a long-term recovery. A key part of a Dual Diagnosis treatment plan are aftercare self-help programs.

12-Step Programs

A 12-step program offers hope, strength and experience from the very first day when you seek help with your addiction program until well after you have graduated. Many aftercare programs, and Alcoholics Anonymous in particular, make use of a 12-step program structure to help you stay clean and move forward with your life. A 12-step program is not beneficial for every single person. However, for millions of individual all over the world, the program’s guiding principles of “giving into one’s higher power” and peer group interaction have provided accountability and relief for individuals who are in recovery.

Opiate addiction - Aftercare and Continuing Care in Vancouver

A 12-step recovery program offers the following benefits:

1) The chance to make connections with other recovering addicts at events and meetings all over the world

2) Access to motivational literature and speaker to help with achieving recovery goals

3) Practical strategies and guidelines for coping with addiction’s daily challenges

4) A sponsor’s guidance for working through the 12 steps, as well as providing motivation and strength

In 12-step programs there is a strong emphasis on spirituality as part of the recovery process. Every member is strongly encouraged to identify with their choice of a higher power and that surrendering to this higher power is an important part of their healing process. In addition to being seen as a physical disease, addiction is also viewed as a spiritual condition that is characterized by there being lack of a meaningful connection with a divine purpose. Some potential members might be discouraged by the focus on spirituality and may prefer a more secular viewpoint. However, it has been noted by Alcoholism, Clinical and Experimental Research that longer rates of abstinence for recovering addicts is associated with increases in spirituality.

Programs such as Cocaine Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous have various programs that they offer, including meetings for Dual Diagnosis recovery. There is also the Dual Recovery Anonymous (DRA) group that is dedicated to providing education and support for individuals struggling with co-occurring conditions. 12-step meetings in larger cities are available in several locations at various time of the day. In-person meetings might be held less frequently in smaller communities. However, telephone services and online chat groups can help get in contact with other members at any time.

Options Okanagan Opiate and Alcohol Treatment Centers in Kelowna, Salmon Arm and Vancouver, British Columbia – Men and Women are recovering and healing from Alcohol and Drug Abuse at our treatment center here in the Okanagan right now.

Individuals Living with Opiate Addiction and Addiction Aftercare and Continuing Care in Kelowna

Our unique and distinctive Opiate Drug and Alcohol treatment program allows men and women to come in from Calgary as well as Edmonton as we offer airport pickup.

Numerous clients come to us from Vancouver, Victoria, Calgary, Edmonton Red Deer and other locations in Alberta and even other provinces for Opiate addiction treatment, heroin drug treatment, many other drug and alcohol addictions for rehabilitation because of the uniqueness of our treatment center.

Google+ Options Okanagan

Our Treatment Location:
Options Okanagan Opiate Treatment Center
551 Sherrydale Crescent, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1V 2E6
Toll Free Phone Number : 1-855-335-0331

Drug And Alcohol Rehab Aftercare And Continuing Care In Vancouver, BC : Part 01

Drug, opiate and alcohol rehab aftercare and continuing care in Vancouver, Victoria and
Kelowna, British Columbia – Options Okanagan Treatment Centers in Kelowna, British Columbia treating opiate and alcohol addiction and recovery.

It is a major accomplishment to complete alcohol or drug rehab. However, that doesn’t mean that there isn’t more work that needs to be done. During the weeks, months or even the years after rehab is completed, people in recovery still are at risk to relapse. The risk of falling into self-destructive patterns and returning to addictive behaviors in increased when the person has a co-occurring disorder – which is a mental health condition that is present alongside with a substance use disorder. An aftercare program can help with minimizing this risk and help you to continue to move forward towards a life that is completely free of drugs.

Opiate addiction and drug abuse and Addiction Aftercare and Continuing Care in Vancouver

According to research that Psychiatric Services conducted, the quality of the specific aftercare that you receive may have a major influence on what your chances are for staying sober once you have finished your treatment. For any Dual Diagnosis recovery process, an aftercare plan should be integrated into a comprehensive treatment program. From the time that you first enroll in rehab for treating drug addiction, alcoholism, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar, or depression, your treatment team needs to be prepared to help you in the days that follow your graduation. If you receive the right kind of therapeutic support and assistance, you have a good chance of maintaining your hard-earned sobriety and the opportunity for building a solid foundation for a full recovery.

People Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare and Continuing Care in Vancouver

Preventing Relapse

It is now recognized by addiction specialists that relapse is one of the hallmark symptoms of addiction. Also, if you happen to have a re-occurring disorder such as post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety or depression, there can be an even stronger temptation to revert back into substance abuse in order to manage your symptoms. Aftercare’s main goal is preventing a relapse into alcohol or drug use. By providing group sessions, continuing counseling and other types of scheduled meetings, an added level of accountability is provided by aftercare and continuing care programs which helps to ensure that the patient doesn’t turn back on their old habits.

The following components have been identified by Alcohol Research & Health as being essential for effective relapse prevention programs:

Identify and learn about your triggers. Substance abuse can be triggered by many different psychological, social and environmental factors. A stressful public events, marriage conflict, flashback to an abusive situation or episode of depression can drive you to revert back to using alcohol or drugs. Learning how to identify your stressors should be part of your relapse prevention process.

Men Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare and Continuing Care in Vancouver

Learn how to cope with cravings and stressors. After you graduate from rehab, you will be facing many situations that you might not have considered while you were in treatment. Things like moving into a new house, beginning a new relationship or getting a new job can all result in you being in an emotionally vulnerable state of mind. Support groups and counseling sessions can help you deal with these kinds of high-risk situations that you may encounter.

Think through a relapse’s outcome. Many recovering addicts revert back to alcohol or drugs expecting that the chemicals will help them feel better. Drugging and drinking in fact usually result in dangerous or unpleasant outcomes, like incarceration, losing a relationship, emergent medical treatment or an overdose. Participants are taught by a relapse prevention plan to evaluate possible outcomes of a slip up before any drugs are picked up or the first drink is taken.

Learn how to prevent a lapse from becoming a relapse. Having a minor slip doesn’t need to end up turning into a major relapse as long as you immediately seek help and take the necessary steps for getting back on track with your program. Since the chances of having a relapse are very high, it is critical to learn how to deal with an occasional slip if one does occur.

If a person does end up relapsing into their old behaviors, their aftercare program can help them to better assess and cope with the situation. The professionals and peers who are part of the aftercare support team can help to ensure that if a slip does occur that the individual doesn’t necessarily need to start all the way back to the beginning of rehab process once again.

Options Okanagan Opiate and Alcohol Treatment Centers in Kelowna, Salmon Arm and Vancouver, British Columbia – Men and Women are recovering and healing from Alcohol and Drug Abuse at our treatment center here in the Okanagan right now.

Individuals Living with Opiate Addiction and Addiction Aftercare and Continuing Care in Kelowna

Our unique and distinctive Opiate Drug and Alcohol treatment program allows men and women to come in from Calgary as well as Edmonton as we offer airport pickup.

Numerous clients come to us from Vancouver, Calgary and Edmonton and other locations in Alberta and even other provinces for Opiate addiction treatment, heroin drug treatment, many other drug and alcohol addictions for rehabilitation because of the uniqueness of our treatment center.

Google+ Options Okanagan

Our Treatment Location:
Options Okanagan Opiate Treatment Center
551 Sherrydale Crescent, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1V 2E6
Toll Free Phone Number : 1-855-335-0331

The Importance Of Aftercare And Continuing Care – Helping People With Treatment In Vancouver, BC – Options Okanagan

The importance of Aftercare and Continuing Care – Helping people with drug and alcohol treatment in Vancouver, Victoria or Kelowna, British Columbia what aftercare program is needed for a potential relapse back in addiction – Options Okanagan Treatment Centers in Kelowna, British Columbia treating opiate and alcohol addiction and recovery.

Overcoming an addiction is difficult for most people. They must make many significant changes in their life, from who their friends are to becoming financially stable. If treatment is needed, they may have difficulty with getting time away from their job without risking being fired. Transportation may also be an issue. They will have to be confronted with family or personal issues that may be emotionally painful. Besides the many social and psychological issues, many substances will also cause physical withdrawal symptoms that must be dealt with as well. This means a recovering addict will be bombarded with many different and uncomfortable experiences as they work through their addiction. Many find it so difficult, they wonder if they can survive treatment, or if it is worth all the pain they are dealing with.

Opiate addiction and drug abuse and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

Therapy is a key factor in helping people stick with their plan of recovery. Specialists in addiction know what individuals are going through during their recovery, and may be able to recommend replacement medications and other methods of making it through the process. However, it is important to remember that replacement drugs are meant to be a temporary tool. Sustained recovery will mean eventually weaning off of even the recovery medications and sustaining sobriety without them.

Another essential element of a successful treatment program is a support system that includes family and other household members of the person in treatment. This is not a simple prospect.

People Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

Dealing with a family member or friend with an addiction problem means that they have likely dealt with abusive behavior, stealing, and many other issues as the person struggled. They may have done or said things that are very hurtful, especially when they are struggling with the feelings and emotions that come up during withdrawal and subsequent treatment.

Nevertheless, having emotional support in the form of counselors, doctors, friends, and family, is essential for a successful recovery from addiction.

The first thing to do is find the right form of treatment for the person who is in recovery. The treatment plan should correspond to the substance the patient has had a problem with. The treatment plan should also be able to address any mental disorders that may contribute to or worsen the addiction. Counselors should be sympathetic to the patient’s situation and supportive in nature. The program should also be sensitive to any special needs the patient has regarding age, gender, race, or anything else. For example, a program that specializes in LGBT patients may be of great help to someone whose sexuality has had an impact on their life. You should also find out if the doctors in the program are aware of the most current prescriptions available that may be able to help the person, especially at the beginning of their treatment when withdrawal is the most difficult.

Men Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

Some other important facts that should be considered when a person is getting treatment include:

1. How involved are the family? This is one of the biggest indicators of success.

2. Does the person have a therapist or counselor? This is especially important for people who may not have the most supportive home environment. A good counselor can provide support and advise to the recovering addict.

3. What type of treatment is needed? There are many different approaches when it comes to treatment. Some include prescription drugs, therapy, medical intervention, or any combination. If a particular type of treatment doesn’t seem to be fitting, it is important to not give up. Instead, consider trying again with a different approach until something works well.

4. How motivated is the person recovering? A person must be willing to change if they hope to see success.

5. Is the patient experiencing stress or pressure from outside sources? Contrary to some beliefs, being forced into treatment is not always a good thing.

Options Okanagan Opiate and Alcohol Treatment Centers in Kelowna, Salmon Arm and Vancouver, British Columbia – Men and Women are recovering and healing from Alcohol and Drug Abuse at our treatment center here in the Okanagan right now.

Individuals Living with Opiate Addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Kelowna

Our unique and distinctive Opiate Drug and Alcohol treatment program allows men and women to come in from Calgary as well as Edmonton as we offer airport pickup.

Numerous clients come to us from Vancouver, Victoria, Calgary and Edmonton and other locations in Alberta and even other provinces for Opiate addiction treatment, heroin drug treatment, many other drug and alcohol addictions for rehabilitation because of the uniqueness of our treatment center.

Google+ Options Okanagan

Our Treatment Location:
Options Okanagan Opiate Treatment Center
551 Sherrydale Crescent, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1V 2E6
Toll Free Phone Number : 1-855-335-0331

Learn The Role Of Continuing Care In The Treatment Of Addiction In Vancouver, BC – Options Okanagan

Learn the role of Continuing Care in the treatment of addiction in Vancouver, Victoria or Kelowna, British Columbia – Options Okanagan Treatment Centers in Kelowna, British Columbia treating opiate and alcohol addiction and recovery.

Anyone honest with themselves in recovery treatment knows that their recovery is going to prove a lifelong process. There is no actual cure for addiction, so getting a life on a good track is going to mean staying on that track for the rest of your days. If you do not adopt this mentality, then no level of alcohol or drug addiction treatment will restore or maintain your sobriety, nor can you create the type of recovery that points you in the direction of healthy decisions and motivating experiences for the rest of your life. Recovery does start in residential treatment, but it keeps going with a comprehensive plan or package of continuing care as you move from a structured, safe, and supportive environment and move back into the larger world.

Opiate addiction and drug abuse and Addiction Aftercare and Continuing Care in Vancouver

When you complete a residential program for addiction treatment, it can be very daunting transitioning back to a regular life, so added support is needed for encouragement and perhaps even some sense of solidarity with others facing the same circumstances. If this particular option is not available, an addict might find him or herself tempted to relapse, especially when they consider how serious their addiction is and they think about the substance they abused and possibly where they can go back and get it.

Men Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare and Continuing Care in Vancouver

Many recovering addicts find continuing care group therapy to be quite a valuable life line when keeping up with their recovery program and sober lifestyle. Without the care of a continuing care provider and the support of peers also in group therapy, then higher-risk scenarios can possibly do you in and drive you back to your addiction. Support helps you cope with whatever your new life throws at you. Having access to a like-minded community can help you develop fundamentals critical to a successfully sober lifestyle, including adequate nutrition, appropriate rest, emotional support, and physical exercise. If you want to give your sobriety and treatment the best shot at working, then full participation is necessary in your continuing care and your group therapy. Spending time with those also in recovery or a little further along will give you ideas and inspiration on how to recognize triggers and resist them to prevent relapse so that your recovery can be long-term.

People Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

A good continuing care program can help restore wellness to many different facets of your overall life. You can deal with stress better, let go of resentments, and help heal or stay away from dysfunctional relationships that you developed while actively addicted. Continuing care and group therapy also goes a long way in lifting you out of the sheer loneliness, despair, and isolation many recovering addicts feel. For the most part, continuing care that incorporates group therapy has proven to be the secret to sobriety success for millions that have already gone through residential treatment programs for their addiction as they built sober and healthy lifestyles rather than relapsing or returning to their old ways.

Options Okanagan Opiate and Alcohol Treatment Centers in Kelowna, Salmon Arm and Vancouver, British Columbia – Men and Women are recovering and healing from Alcohol and Drug Abuse at our treatment center here in the Okanagan right now.

Individuals Living with Opiate Addiction and Addiction Aftercare and Continuing Care in Kelowna

Our unique and distinctive Opiate Drug and Alcohol treatment program allows men and women to come in from Calgary as well as Edmonton as we offer airport pickup.

Numerous clients come to us from Vancouver, Calgary and Edmonton and other locations in Alberta and even other provinces for Opiate addiction treatment, heroin drug treatment, many other drug and alcohol addictions for rehabilitation because of the uniqueness of our treatment center.

Google+ Options Okanagan

Our Treatment Location:
Options Okanagan Opiate Treatment Center
551 Sherrydale Crescent, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1V 2E6
Toll Free Phone Number : 1-855-335-0331

Aftercare: How To Avoid Relapse After Drug Treatment In Vancouver, BC – Options Okanagan

Aftercare: How to avoid relapse after opiate, drug or alcohol rehab treatment finishes in Vancouver, Victoria or Kelowna, British Columbia – Options Okanagan Treatment Centers in Kelowna, British Columbia treating opiate and alcohol addiction and recovery.

In many ways, the most difficult part of getting a long-term recovery process established and maintained occurs after the intensive, initial part of the treatment is finished.

In order to avoid relapse, a majority of individuals need the warm embraces of their loved ones – whether that happens to be close, biological family members or new chosen “family” made up of other recovering individuals that they feel they can turn to anytime they believe they are in danger of a relapse.

Opiate addiction and drug abuse and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

Five factors were identified by one study that contribute most often to relapse:

1. Low motivation for change
2. Negative thinking
3. Failing to follow through with recommendations from counselors and doctors
4. Interpersonal conflicts with family members o others
5. Being unable to manage negative emotional states or stress

Those factors are similar to the variables affecting relapse when having to deal with diabetes and other kinds of chronic disorders:

1. Co-occurring mental health disorder
2. Inadequate support from family members
3. Poverty
3. Failing to stick with behavior change, medications or diet

People Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

Addicted individuals, among other things, have to learn how to avoid coming into contact with triggers that might set their brains in motion for its demands for alcohol or drugs. At times when the triggers are unavoidable, individuals need to develop the proper skills that will help to prevent their cravings from completely taking over. One of the core elements of their treatment program needs to be to learn these skills; maintaining them needs to be part of their long-term recovery plan or aftercare program.

A well known aftercare counselor, who helps fellow NA and AA members, says that aftercare is continuing care that an individual needs to stay involved with in order to survive. He adds that if a person simply leaves their 30 day treatment and doesn’t attend meetings or participate in a group and have a sponsor and commitment, then within a very short period of time they will go back. They won’t be able to resist the temptations of Alcohol or Drugs.

Men Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

One leading counselor, who is in charge of a confidential addiction assistance program to help employees at a Canadian Major College of Medicine states that expert counselors can’t strongly emphasize the role that the aftercare contract plays enough as well as the aftercare program. He says it is the key to being successful.

Another counselor, who heads a Vancouver recovery center, where participants are able to gather for job training, mutual aid, friendships and other forms of tangible assistance to help individuals in recovery get back on their feet, stay committed to their recovery plans and begin a new life. Peer support is a critical aspect of the recovery center. However solution-oriented efforts are the focus of the organization and it isn’t limited to specific issues that come out of addition-focused dialogue from 12-step programs. Aftercare focuses on the solution instead of the problem.

Many individuals believe they are trying to replace AA. However, they aren’t trying to replace 12-step. Individuals who are in long-term recovery process are in a completely different stage and don’t have the same needs. The counselors have developed recovery commitment plans for their clients – the goal is getting them to the place where they are preparing themselves for a lifetime of recovery.

Services like skill-training and educational services, mentoring and peer coaching, and recovery center play a key role in assisting an addicted individual with rebuilding their lives, avoiding relapse and sustaining long-term recovery. The Recovery Community Services Program (RSCP), a small federal program, funds faith-based and community-based programs that offer these services, which links people with education, jobs and/or housing, as well as hosting drug-free or alcohol-free social activities.

Options Okanagan Opiate and Alcohol Treatment Centers in Kelowna, Salmon Arm and Vancouver, British Columbia – Men and Women are recovering and healing from Alcohol and Drug Abuse at our treatment center here in the Okanagan right now.

Individuals Living with Opiate Addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Kelowna

Our unique and distinctive Opiate Drug and Alcohol treatment program allows men and women to come in from Calgary as well as Edmonton as we offer airport pickup.

Numerous clients come to us from Vancouver, Calgary and Edmonton and other locations in Alberta and even other provinces for Opiate addiction treatment, heroin drug treatment, many other drug and alcohol addictions for rehabilitation because of the uniqueness of our treatment center.

Google+ Options Okanagan

Our Treatment Location:
Options Okanagan Opiate Treatment Center
551 Sherrydale Crescent, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1V 2E6
Toll Free Phone Number : 1-855-335-0331

Once Drug And Alcohol Rehab Treatment Concludes In Vancouver, BC; What Aftercare Is Needed For Potential Relapse?

Once your opiate, drug or alcohol rehab treatment finishes in Vancouver, Victoria or Kelowna, British Columbia what aftercare program is needed for a potential relapse back in addiction – Options Okanagan Treatment Centers in Kelowna, British Columbia treating opiate and alcohol addiction and recovery.

It’s ironic that some of the more difficult chapters of recovery actually take place after treatment is supposedly done, because those who have recovered often suffer from relapses. Families and loved ones of the afflicted individual should be prepared for relapses in post-treatment chapters of life so that the disappointment and damage are manageable.

Even those who went through effective treatment for their addictions are going to have to face situations they are not fully prepared for or comfortable with when they leave rehab and come home to familiar surroundings and normal life. Such situations can cause nearly intolerable cravings for returning to drugs or alcohol. Lapse, which is technically defined as a return to drugs or alcohol even once after treatment, happens to half or more people who finish treatment. The first quarter to half year after formal treatment completion is the period of highest risk. Lapse is different than relapse, which is defined as those who return to drugs or alcohol, not once, but to problematic or excessive levels, happens to just under a third of those that finished treatment in the previous 12 months.

Opiate addiction and drug abuse and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

It’s essential that patients, as well as their close relatives and friends, all prepare for the chance that either lapse or relapse happen. Preparations need to include early detections of lapse, and the establishment of responses that everyone can take to keep a lapse from growing into a full relapse. There are two different activity sets that can minimize the chances of a relapse or at least cut down on the severity of one.

Aftercare: Preparation During Treatment:

Aftercare: The right addiction treatment regimen helps its patients get ready to:

1) Realize they have an issue that demands continued attention and management.
2) Adopt and employ fundamental basics that others have used to identify and resist the craving for drugs or alcohol when such instances present themselves.
3) Stay engaged in continuing care through options such as AA, as well as get routine screening for substance abuse via breathalyzer analysis or urine testing.
4) Be receptive to occasional phone calls or even in-home visitation so that care can be followed and monitored.

People Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

These are rather generic elements but they are also sound techniques for post-care treatment success, and all contribute to avoiding lapse happening. Families should be incorporated into this planning so they know what’s going on and can even support the efforts, such as knowing symptoms and warnings of lapse to look for.

Aftercare: Preparation During Post-Treatment:

In order to hopefully prevent or at least contain a relapse, any nearby family should volunteer to assist in the planning and execution of continuing care. Families and anyone else who cares can help out with five individual steps:

1) Keep copies of planned continuing care readily available so that there is clear communication, expectations, and unambiguous response to issues.

2) Have the recovering addict list in writing early symptoms, signs, and behaviors that might trigger lapse or relapse. These are certain actions, time spent with particular individuals, or even inactions that should be considered stern warning signs. Family and friends should monitor the addict for these warning signs at all times.

Men Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

3) The addict should also consider potential or former relapses and advise friends and family on what they can do to stop them or help them out. These steps and scenarios can be used to construct action plans.

4) The family should have access to the results of urine screening after post-treatment, and these results should be on display for everyone to see. Positive results should get noticed in conversations honestly and openly.

5) Look out for any changes in the addict that seem in alignment with a lifestyle free of drugs or alcohol. Reinforce positive behavior accordingly.

Options Okanagan Opiate and Alcohol Treatment Centers in Kelowna, Salmon Arm and Vancouver, British Columbia – Men and Women are recovering and healing from Alcohol and Drug Abuse at our treatment center here in the Okanagan right now.

Individuals Living with Opiate Addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Kelowna

Our unique and distinctive Opiate Drug and Alcohol treatment program allows men and women to come in from Calgary as well as Edmonton as we offer airport pickup.

Numerous clients come to us from Vancouver, Calgary and Edmonton and other locations in Alberta and even other provinces for Opiate addiction treatment, heroin drug treatment, many other drug and alcohol addictions for rehabilitation because of the uniqueness of our treatment center.

Google+ Options Okanagan

Our Treatment Location:
Options Okanagan Opiate Treatment Center
551 Sherrydale Crescent, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1V 2E6
Toll Free Phone Number : 1-855-335-0331

Why Aftercare Is Crucial For Your Opiate , Drug And Alcohol Addiction Treatment In Vancouver, BC – Part 04 – Options Okanagan Treatment Centers

Why Aftercare is Crucial for your opiate, drug and alcohol treatment in Vancouver, Victoria, Kelowna and other parts of British Columbia – Options Okanagan Treatment Center in Kelowna, British Columbia treating Opiate and Alcohol addiction and recovery.

How To Succeed

Willingness To Change, Openness, and Honesty.

Nobody can complete addiction treatment in place of the person with the addiction, and even excellent centers will not succeed if the patient is not willing to commit to their own treatment. They must be open and honest, and willing to do the work that will be needed.

Opiate addiction and drug abuse and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

a) It is important to do major soul searching, and face any demons in the past. Be honest with any emotions that come up, regardless of how painful they are. It is important to embrace even the unpleasant feelings, as it is a necessary part of recovery. It might be wise to make a list of the experiences that come up, so they can be discussed with a counselor. It is important to be honest and get to the root of the cause of the abuse. An objective look at the events of the past can bring insight when examined by a skilled therapist or couselor and is essential to succeed.

People Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

b) Observe and listen to others. Others have valuable knowledge and experience that can help. Even if the topic at hand doesn’t seem relevant, for example, a person sharing their abuse of prescription medication when the individual is dealing with addiction to alcohol, there is still useful information that can be gleaned from the other’s experiences. Listening closely during meetings and group sessions is just as important as feelings and experiences that the individual experienced.

c) Share experiences, feelings, and thoughts that come up during the recovery process, even if they seem awkward or embarrassing. Some people might find relief in sharing their pain, however, others are self-conscious, and want to share as little as they can get away with. Not being willing to share honest and open observations and experiences sets a person up to fail and can even sabotage efforts at recovery. It is important to be willing to share, even if it seems uncomfortable at the time.

Men Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

Next Steps In Aftercare

Recovery takes time and shouldn’t be rushed. Even with the support of a good aftercare program and transitional home, relapses can still happen, especially in the time immediately following leaving rehab. For example, in a survey of members of Alcoholics Anonymous, it was found that 4 out of 5 people had a relapse during the first year of recovery. However, once the five-year mark was reached, the chance of relapse drops to just 8 percent. This survey shows just how important it is for an individual to continue with their aftercare, even if a relapse occurs.

Relapse Does Not Mean Failure

A relapse event doesn’t necessarily mean that the aftercare program failed, it just means that treatment is not done. Sobriety is something that can only be achieved day by day. Having an aftercare program such as a transitional home can help a person stay committed and reach their goals. If an individual also suffers from other mental disorders, aftercare is a great time to address these and start a treatment program to address them in addition to the problems with addiction.

Aftercare increases the chance of success. For example, alcohol dependence rates decreased by 4 million cases in 2014. While there could be several reasons for the decrease, one is undoubtedly the increase in aftercare options within treatment programs. For unemployed individuals, a transitional home also provides a place to live, stability, and much needed support as they search for a job. From group therapy to specialized living situation, aftercare provides much-needed assistance during the vital period just after inpatient rehab. It also provides assistance in maintaining sobriety and getting help in the case of a relapse.

Options Okanagan Opiate and Alcohol Treatment Centers in Kelowna, Salmon Arm and Vancouver, British Columbia – Men and Women are recovering and healing from Alcohol and Drug Abuse at our treatment center here in the Okanagan right now.

Individuals Living with Opiate Addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Kelowna

Our unique and distinctive Opiate Drug and Alcohol treatment program allows men and women to come in from Calgary as well as Edmonton as we offer airport pickup.

Numerous clients come to us from Vancouver, Victoria, Calgary, Edmonton and other locations in Alberta and BC even other provinces for Opiate addiction treatment, heroin drug treatment, many other drug and alcohol addictions for rehabilitation because of the uniqueness of our treatment center.

Google+ Options Okanagan

Our Treatment Location:
Options Okanagan Opiate Treatment Center
551 Sherrydale Crescent, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1V 2E6
Toll Free Phone Number : 1-855-335-0331

Why Aftercare Is Crucial For Your Opiate And Alcohol Addiction Treatment In Vancouver, BC – Part 03 – Options Okanagan Treatment Centers

Why Aftercare is Crucial for your opiate, drug and alcohol treatment in Vancouver, Victoria, Kelowna and other parts of British Columbia – Options Okanagan Treatment Center in Kelowna, British Columbia treating Opiate and Alcohol addiction and recovery.

When Transitional Living Is Right For Aftercare

Sometimes it is possible for a person to return home after completing their treatment program at a rehabilitation center. If they have family and friends or even neighbors and coworkers who support their recovery, there is a support network in place. They should still have access to outpatient aftercare, including group meetings, therapy, and a sponsor. Others, however, might not have a very supportive network waiting for them after they finish their inpatient program.

Opiate addiction and drug abuse and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

They may not have a job to go back to or enough money to cover expenses. Their home life may be negative, or they may not have a home at all. Others simply might not feel ready to return to their everyday life, feeling overwhelmed by the reality of sobriety. For these people, a transitional living situation can give them a chance to smoothly move from inpatient rehab to living independently.

Explaining Extended Care

Patients in an extended care facility usually live in an environment that is supervised, but feels home-like. If an individual feels tempted to relapse, they have access to either a counselor, therapist, or fellow recovering addict at their fingertips. A transitional living situation includes access to a house manager and counselor, and often the manager is an addiction specialist or former addict themselves.

People Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

Help Is Available Round-The-Clock

Individuals often benefit from having support available anytime they need it. Meetings are often held daily, and there are many opportunities for discussion of feelings, hopes, and fears in order to work out any problems that arise. Residents in a program also serve as a source of encouragement and support, establishing a community and sense of fellowship. While a transitional community has less structure than an inpatient treatment facility, they still have fixed rules that establish a sense of stability.

Housemates often share chore duty, taking turns cleaning and cooking. These chores not only maintain the house, they impart a sense of routine and structure that is essential for someone just out of rehab. The members of the household also must follow rules on curfew and meeting attendance.

Men Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

Besides their daily chores, individuals who live in transitional housing can choose to take classes to improve life skills. These can vary from parenting classes to workshops to refine a resume. The classes will help the individual learn the skills they will need and haven’t had a chance to master on their own due to their addiction. In addition, if the person is currently unemployed, a transitional home is more affordable while providing essential stability as they search for a new job.

Options Okanagan Opiate and Alcohol Treatment Centers in Kelowna, Salmon Arm and Vancouver, British Columbia – Men and Women are recovering and healing from Alcohol and Drug Abuse at our treatment center here in the Okanagan right now.

Individuals Living with Opiate Addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Kelowna

Our unique and distinctive Opiate Drug and Alcohol treatment program allows men and women to come in from Calgary as well as Edmonton as we offer airport pickup.

Numerous clients come to us from Vancouver, Victoria, Calgary and Edmonton and other locations in Alberta and even other provinces for Opiate addiction treatment, heroin drug treatment, many other drug and alcohol addictions for rehabilitation because of the uniqueness of our treatment center.

Google+ Options Okanagan

Our Treatment Location:
Options Okanagan Opiate Treatment Center
551 Sherrydale Crescent, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1V 2E6
Toll Free Phone Number : 1-855-335-0331

Why Aftercare Is Crucial For Your Drug Or Alcohol Addiction Treatment In Vancouver, BC – Part 02 – Options Okanagan Treatment Centers

Why Aftercare is Crucial for your drug and alcohol treatment in Vancouver, Victoria, Kelowna and other parts of British Columbia – Options Okanagan Treatment Center in Kelowna, British Columbia treating Opiate and Alcohol addiction and recovery.

Benefits of Aftercare

By providing an opportunity for continued support, counseling, or transitional living, programs for aftercare give individuals another layer of accountability that stands between them and returning to their substance of choice. These programs are a safe place where individuals can connect with other recovering addicts, advice for coping with temptation and stress, motivational speakers, and a mentor or sponsor.

Opiate addiction and drug abuse and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

Aftercare programs are also quite useful for the family and friends of those suffering from addiction issues. Many services include counseling sessions for the spouse, parents, children, or partners of the person with the addiction problem. Group therapy and educational seminars on the link between mental disorders and substance abuse can also serve as a great resource for friends and family. Family members are also welcome at various 12-step programs such as meetings of Narcotics Anonymous or Alcoholics Anonymous, who both have material tailored especially for family of the recovering addicts. These meetings serve as a place where family members can safely share their experience with addiction and gain the support of others in similar situations.

People Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

Finding The Right Program

If an aftercare program is to be effective, it must be tailored individually to the person. These types of plans usually are created as a joint effort between the individual and addiction specialist or counselor before they are discharged from their rehabilitation program. How complex the plan is will depend on what the person needs, what their home life is like, the environment they will be returning to, and their risk of relapse. The less that is left to chance, the better. Without a concrete plan, it is very easy for an individual to relapse and take up old habits. The aim of a good aftercare plan is to have nothing left to chance.

Men Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

Basic Steps In Aftercare

No two aftercare plans will be identical, however, these basic steps are usually a part of the program.

1) Continuing therapy. Having therapy sessions continue beyond the period in the rehabilitation center will allow a person to continue working on any issues that they have that might have contributed to their addictions. Individuals who are new to recovery will have a greater chance of attending regular programs for recovery if they have someone to be accountable to.

2) Learning Triggers. A person needs to learn what triggers their addiction and how they can cope with them using workshops, group therapy, lectures, or individual therapy sessions. There are many different factors, psychological, social, or environmental in nature, that could trigger someone to return to their addiction. A loved one’s sudden death, losing their job, PTSD, or any sudden extreme sensation or emotion has a risk of driving someone to relapse. While initial discovery of these triggers may begin during their stay at rehab, returning to their normal life may trigger a host of new problems. This is where the importance of understanding triggers comes in during aftercare.

3) Coping with cravings and stress. After leaving rehab, a person may face a situation that they didn’t anticipate while in treatment. Even a good experience, like a new job, can cause stress and trigger a craving for their substance of choice. Aftercare programs include teaching skills on how to cope with stress and deal with cravings. Regular attendance at counseling or support groups will give additional structure to the person’s life, so when stress hits, they can reach out to their support system and reduce their chances of relapse.

4) Preventing relapse. Nobody is perfect. Even a person who is committed to recovery can suffer from a relapse, whether as small as a sip of alcohol or as large as using again. A lapse might appear to be minor, however, they can cause a very fast spiral downwards back towards relapse and substance abuse. A major part of an aftercare plan should be a plan for what to do if the person relapses. They should list 5 people who they can contact, such as a sober friend or sponsor), and 5 steps they can take to stop the abuse immediately, such as asking for a ride away from the situation or attending a support meeting. Thinking of the possible outcomes in case of relapse and having a plan in place to address any mistakes can reduce the chances that the person will seriously relapse.

Options Okanagan Opiate and Alcohol Treatment Centers in Kelowna, Salmon Arm and Vancouver, British Columbia – Men and Women are recovering and healing from Alcohol and Drug Abuse at our treatment center here in the Okanagan right now.

Individuals Living with Opiate Addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Kelowna

Our unique and distinctive Opiate Drug and Alcohol treatment program allows men and women to come in from Calgary as well as Edmonton as we offer airport pickup.

Numerous clients come to us from Vancouver, Calgary and Edmonton and other locations in Alberta and even other provinces for Opiate addiction treatment, heroin drug treatment, many other drug and alcohol addictions for rehabilitation because of the uniqueness of our treatment center.

Google+ Options Okanagan

Our Treatment Location:
Options Okanagan Opiate Treatment Center
551 Sherrydale Crescent, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1V 2E6
Toll Free Phone Number : 1-855-335-0331

Why Aftercare Is Crucial For Your Drug Addiction Treatment In Vancouver, BC – Part 01 – Options Okanagan Treatment Center

Why Aftercare is Crucial for your drug and alcohol treatment in Vancouver, Victoria, Kelowna and other parts of British Columbia – Options Okanagan Treatment Center in Kelowna, British Columbia treating Opiate and Alcohol addiction and recovery.

Aftercare: A Commitment For Life

Recovering from addiction will take more than a simple 4-6 week long treatment program. It is a process that will continue for the rest of the person’s life. The steps that are taken in the early months after completing a treatment program can be crucial when it comes to whether the person stays sober for life or is destined to relapse. Once formal treatment is complete, aftercare should be the very next consideration.

Opiate addiction and drug abuse and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

Programs Vary When It Comes To Aftercare

While the overarching goal of any aftercare program is preventing relapse, the exact nature of the program can vary greatly based on a number of factors. For some people, attending a weekly support group that is led by a qualified counselor will help provide needed support and referrals once rehab is completed. These meetings allow the members of the group to bond with each other, as well as the counselor, to form a network of support.

For others, it may be more beneficial to move into a transitional living space upon completion of a rehabilitation program. Transitional living is useful for anyone who has completed an intensive inpatient program but may not be ready to live on their own just yet. Having regular meetings with a mentor or sponsor is also crucial for good aftercare.

People Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

Who Could Benefit From Aftercare?

Over 35 million people across North America are struggling with addiction or substance abuse. However, just over 4.5 million of these individuals will attend treatment in a rehabilitation center that specializes in addiction. That is just 11 percent. While treatment for addiction is essential, the need for adequate aftercare should be just as important. Even after rehabilitation, often an individual will struggle with their issues with substance abuse.

Having a good aftercare program can make the difference when it comes to reducing the chance of a relapse. Every day 15,000 people start using a drug, and often they are under 18 years of age.

Men Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

In recent years, specialists in addiction have begun to recognize that relapse is a major symptom of an addiction problem. People who also have additional disorders are at a higher risk of relapsing and can also greatly benefit from a good aftercare program to prevent that.

a) More than 15 million people (13.7 to be exact) across North America have a mental disorder in addition to their substance abuse problem.

b) Unfortunately, less than 10 percent of these people will have both conditions treated, and half receive no treatment at all.

c) Adults who suffer from a mental illness have an increased likelihood of beginning on alcohol or report using alcohol heavily.

Options Okanagan Opiate and Alcohol Treatment Centers in Kelowna, Salmon Arm and Vancouver, British Columbia – Men and Women are recovering and healing from Alcohol and Drug Abuse at our treatment center here in the Okanagan right now.

Individuals Living with Opiate Addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Kelowna

Our unique and distinctive Opiate Drug and Alcohol treatment program allows men and women to come in from Calgary as well as Edmonton as we offer airport pickup.

Numerous clients come to us from Vancouver, Calgary and Edmonton and other locations in Alberta and even other provinces for Opiate addiction treatment, heroin drug treatment, many other drug and alcohol addictions for rehabilitation because of the uniqueness of our treatment center.

Google+ Options Okanagan

Our Treatment Location:
Options Okanagan Opiate Treatment Center
551 Sherrydale Crescent, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1V 2E6
Toll Free Phone Number : 1-855-335-0331