During treatment, you will have learned about different coping strategies which can help you fight the urge to start using again. Aftercare is an important tool for putting them into practice. Depending on your needs, you may benefit from different types of aftercare programme:
* Individual therapy sessions. Some people choose to have regular meetings with a therapist as they make the transition back to a normal life.
* Group counselling sessions. Others prefer a group approach to therapy. These support groups are led by professional therapists or counsellors who will help guide you on the journey to recovery.
* 12-step programmes. These free programmes can be found all over the world. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) are support networks made up of former addicts.
You might start using one or more of these techniques and, as time goes by, you may change your aftercare programme. It is important to find the best aftercare programme to suit your individual needs, to maximise your chances of a strong recovery.