Beyond that of connecting with your support network, the benefits of an alumni program are much more than that. Maintaining these connections creates not only a safety net that protects your sobriety. After recovery, you are learning how to live without being dependent on a substance. You are also learning how to cope with the stressors of everyday life. Participating in an alumni program through Right Step Houston helps you achieve those goals.
The Top 3 Benefits of an Alumni Program
Relapse prevention and finding ways to improve an individual’s life does not have to stop when they graduate from a treatment program. Instead, they can embrace the many benefits of an alumni program. These programs provide on-going care options to help individuals remain substance-free. They are also beneficial for those in recovery who have concerns about what life is going to be like when they finish treatment.
Smooth Transition Between Treatment and Daily Life
It is not uncommon for those who complete an addiction treatment program to feel uneasy about transitioning into daily life. One of the benefits of an alumni program is that it helps ease that transition. For example, alumni programs could set up transitional housing. That way, those in recovery do not feel thrust into a situation they cannot handle.
Maintain Essential Connections
Another of the many benefits of an alumni program is that it helps individuals maintain a connection with the recovery community. According to the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports, 10% of Americans that once suffered from substance abuse no longer have this issue. Participating in alumni programs help maintain connections with others, including treatment providers and graduates from programs. That way, they can continue to have access to peer support and resources.
Alumni Programs Provide Access to Much-Needed Resources
In addition to peer support, alumni programs provide access to addiction education, guided group sessions, relapse prevention programs, and workshops. Some alumni programs send out event calendars and newsletters to help individuals see what options are available to them and when. Members of alumni programs understand that there is no greater resource for those who finish treatment than having access to others undergoing the same thing.
Examples of Programs Alumni Programs Offer
Many alumni programs focus on having fun after graduating from a treatment program. You just took a significant step toward changing your life forever, and that included a tremendous amount of hard work. Therefore, alumni programs want to help continue your sobriety through fun and engaging programs. Examples of these programs include:
- BBQ outings
- Camping
- Hiking
- On-going alumni AA meetings
Additional Benefits of an Alumni Program
Beyond that of providing a safe way of transitioning into daily life, and opportunities for fun and engaging activities, the benefits of an alumni program also include:
- Access to a strong network of peers and professionals who have experience regarding the recovery process
- Opportunities to participate in a broad range of events showcasing how your recovery can be both fun and satisfying
- Having a chance to share your treatment and recovery experiences with others who are following similar paths
- Many opportunities for volunteering to help others facing addiction struggles
- The ability to participate in online communities that are confidential for alumni members
- Additional support through the provision on on-going access to alumni coordinators
Final Thoughts
When you leave a treatment program, you might have concerns regarding how you are going to cope during day-to-day life. That is where the benefits of an alumni program come into play. No one should have to navigate these challenges without support. Contact Right Step Houston at 1.844.768.0169 to learn how we can alleviate these worries.