Extended Addiction Care

What is Extended Care?

Extended care is the continuation of an addiction rehab programme after a period of primary care, which can run between 4 and 12 weeks depending on the individual’s need and condition. Secondary care is the first phase of extended care. It will provide the same level of support and guidance as primary care, but in a less structured treatment programme, allowing the patient to begin to structure their own day while still participating in the rehab treatment programme and integrating into their community. Tertiary care is the next step in the treatment process. It provides a supportive network inside a sober living environment where individuals are more in charge of their own routine and rehabilitation.

Why Secondary Care?

Secondary care helps the individual to begin taking responsibility for their recovery in a setting where relapse is unlikely. Secondary care promotes excellent time management and future planning, which are essential tools for a successful recovery. Individuals will be encouraged to begin integrating into the community for brief periods during secondary care, away from the safe and protective setting of primary care rehab. They will also be encouraged and supported in making important decisions about their future, such as enrolling in college courses, retraining for a new career, and participating in activities outside of treatment that is good for their mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. It’s also a good time for the person to focus on their own personal circumstances and the changes they wish to make to assist in their recovery. Many rehab facilities offer tertiary care for clients who choose or need to extend their treatment sessions for longer periods.

What is Tertiary Care?

After secondary care, tertiary treatment may be considered. Tertiary care is commonly referred to as a sober living house. That is precisely what it is; the individual still has a strong support system in place, but they can also participate in activities that will help them recover, such as volunteer work or training classes. They will live among others who are just starting their recovery journey and will continue participating in group treatment, but they will live independently from the rehab clinic. Tertiary care is especially beneficial to those who have little or no support at home or who have become homeless or rootless as a result of their addiction.

It is beneficial for the person to recover in their own home while knowing that they have support available if they need it.

Continuing the Recovery Journey

Self-help and support organisations such as Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, and Cocaine Anonymous and your own private counsellor or therapist may be part of Extended Care. Individuals who attend fellowship meetings have the same opportunities to identify with others in recovery as they had while in treatment, but on an outpatient basis. A sense of belonging to the community can be reassuring to someone who is just starting out on their road to recovery. Fellowship meetings also provide an opportunity for the person to meet a sponsor, who is usually someone who is further along in their recovery journey and can encourage and assist the individual.