Moving Forward

Though seeking treatment for an alcohol or substance use disorder is a major step forward, it is only the beginning of the journey. It is important to remember that addiction is a chronic disease: building a new life free from addiction comes with significant challenges and may involve many setbacks. The good news is that there are a wide variety of recovery programs designed to assist you in staying sober and moving forward.

Aftercare Programs

The goal of aftercare programs is to prevent relapse in patients that have completed a treatment program. This might look different depending on the needs of the individual; programs can include attendance at a 12-step meeting, job training, individual counseling, and many other services. Check with treatment facilities to find out what type of aftercare services they offer.

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12-Step Programs

Twelve-step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) provide a space for those in recovery to find support from their peers. People find 12-step programs helpful at all stages of treatment and recovery: many treatmental facilities require patients to attend 12-step meetings, and many people continue to attend months or years after they become sober. There are also 12-step fellowships for the family, friends and loved ones of someone suffering from drug or alcohol addiction.

Find a 12-Step Meeting

Sober Living Facilities

Sober living facilities offer opportunities for people in recovery to live in a supportive community. Sometimes people leaving residential treatment programs enter sober living facilities where they can transition smoothly back to life outside of a treatment facility.

Treatment Locator

Faith Communities

Many faith communities and churches also offer help and support for recovery, such as hosting 12-step meetings and holding special worship services.

Find a Recovery Ministry

Help for Family Members and Caregivers

Caring for someone who suffers from addiction can be isolating. Due to the stigma surrounding addiction, loved ones often feel like they have no one to turn to for support or advice, In fact, they may not even realize how much they are suffering.

Fortunately, there are support groups for caregivers. Groups like Al-Anon and Nar-Anon provide safe places for caregivers to begin their own healing by sharing their feelings in fellowships bound by anonymity. You can find local support groups on our 12-step meeting resource page.

Find an Al-anon Meeting

Recovery