Transitioning from Treatment

Completing a residential addiction treatment program can symbolize a new beginning in one’s life. While in treatment, an addict learns about the disease of addiction, begins to communicate more effectively, learns tools to identify triggers, and goes through an intensive experience of working through painful memories, past relationships, mismanaged emotions, and any underlying mental health issues.

Through this process, the addict makes critical strides in understanding their disease and the factors that played into their substance abuse patterns. By the time treatment ends, the individual has gained coping skills and tools for managing cravings and building healthier habits.

However, going home often stirs up mixed emotions—especially as more pieces need to be put back together from the wreckage an addiction caused. Along with a sense of personal triumph and inspiration, exiting treatment comes with great responsibility. The following discussion highlights needs and choices an addict faces in the transition from treatment.

Needing continued support

While residential treatment can set the stage for major breakthroughs, treatment does not eliminate an addict’s desire to drink or use. Anyone leaving treatment should quickly get connected with support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, and/or counseling.

In some situations, the addict may need a specialized living situation or continued treatment services to create and maintain a new, sober lifestyle. Following residential treatment at The Walker Center, two of the addiction recovery organizations we recommend are Brick House Recovery and River Sober Living.

Post-treatment programs

Many of our residential alumni find connection and support through continued structure and treatment services after they have returned home. Going from treatment back to the “real world” can be a vulnerable transition—especially when you are no longer surrounded by fellow recovering addicts and counselors.

Given the sensitive nature of being newly sober, post-treatment support is essential to helping you adjust.Brick House Recovery is a private, faith-based, addiction recovery center that offers great support to addicts transitioning back into regular life. Their Boise Treatment Center helps people build a foundation in sobriety through outpatient and post-treatment services.

The Aftercare Program is a two-month, post-treatment program, helping addicts adjust to their new lifestyle. By connecting with others through group and individual sessions, addicts continue getting support for long-term recovery and wellness.

Drug-free housing

Some people enter treatment after living in a toxic housing situation. Perhaps your roommates or other family members are still drinking or using. If you walk back into that environment after treatment, you will be surrounded by relapse triggers and risky situations.

If you are faced with returning to an unsafe environment, alternative housing may be a smarter option to continue building healthy habits and heal in a supportive home.River Sober Living offers recovery housing to men ages 18 and older. Each of the sober houses has a live-in house manager, serving as a leader in sobriety and accountability.

Tenants must abide by a zero-tolerance policy, ensuring a safe, conducive space for substance-free living.

Finding other connections

Building connections with others is critical throughout your recovery journey. If you are looking for other support in your area, reach out to The Walker Center to get connected with other local organizations, resources, and support groups for continued accountability.

Our Alumni Support Groups regularly meet in Boise, Twin Falls, and Gooding.Finding a recovery community in your area is especially helpful for staying on a life-long, sober path. Learn more ways you can set recovery goals and build a rewarding, sober lifestyle.

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