Recovering from drug or alcohol addiction doesn’t happen overnight. Instead of a final destination, addiction recovery is a lifelong process. Meaningful changes can occur when you get the treatment and ongoing support you need to stay focused on sobriety.
Going to rehab is a life-changing decision. Attending rehab can open the door to a new, healthier future. After completing a treatment program, you must find ways to stay active and engaged in recovery.
Joining your rehab center’s alumni program or network can give you added support during recovery. A rehab alumni group consists of people who have participated in the same treatment programs. Members of alumni groups keep in regular contact. They provide accountability and support, and may get together for fun activities.
This article will outline some of the benefits of joining your rehab center’s alumni network. You will learn:
- What an alumni network is
- What happens in a rehab alumni group
- The benefits of an alumni program
- Where to find addiction treatment and support
Contact the First Step Behavioral Health specialists to explore our comprehensive treatment and support programs. Our intake team can verify your insurance, answer questions, or help you schedule an intake appointment. Take the first step of your recovery journey by contacting us today.
What is an Alumni Community?
An alumni group is a network of people who have completed a rehab program. People in an alumni group are committed to staying active in recovery. These communities provide a way for people to stay connected, share resources, and support one another during recovery.
Alumni networks can be especially beneficial to people who are new to recovery. These supportive groups provide a reliable, consistent source of non-judgmental support. Because all group members have been through treatment, they can all understand the challenges of recovery. They also serve as mentors and role models for people who are just starting their recovery journey.
Joining an alumni community can help people feel connected to others. It can reduce isolation and loneliness. It also provides practical and emotional support for people at every stage of addiction recovery.
What Happens in an Alumni Group?
Alumni groups typically get together regularly. They may host events or special activities, including:
- Alumni meetings and support groups
- Continued education classes
- Networking events
- Career services and support events
- Sober alumni events, including BBQs, retreats, volunteer opportunities, community meals, and more
- Workshops and seminars focusing on relapse prevention strategies, stress reduction, and coping skills
- Recreational sports leagues
Members of an alumni group spend time together, learn from one another, and provide support. An alumni association offers a community and resources that can help people work toward long-term recovery.
5 Benefits of Joining Your Treatment Center’s Rehab Alumni Program
Many treatment facilities offer an alumni program that can help people stay connected after rehab. Here are some of the most significant benefits of joining.
Motivation
Finding your purpose can be one of the biggest challenges in recovery. Attending alumni events, connecting with others, and staying active in other ways can support your lifelong recovery journey.
Accountability
Many people leave rehab feeling optimistic about their futures, only to lose steam or become disengaged. Success in recovery means developing new routines that support lifelong sobriety. While it can be challenging to stay on track, attending alumni group meetings and events can provide valuable structure and accountability.
Relapse prevention skills
Preventing a relapse requires more than just hope. You must also develop and use skills to protect your sobriety. A rehab alumni group is a great source of practical relapse prevention skills. You can learn from other members’ experiences and get new ideas and tips. Most importantly, you will have a group to support you and help you process experiences and emotions.
Community
Recovery doesn’t have to be a lonely journey. Making new friends and building healthy, supportive relationships is one of the most important aspects of staying sober. Alumni groups provide a community of people with common experiences.
In an alumni group, you will find friends and supporters who can understand your experiences without judgment. You will also have a healthy, sober community to spend time with as you navigate each stage of recovery.
Resources
Rehab alumni communities are incredible sources of information about navigating life in recovery. You will find information about local recovery support programs and community resources. You can find new 12-step meetings, workshops, 24-hour emergency helplines, and more.
Alumni groups are also a great resource for finding help with employment, healthcare, housing, benefits, and other necessities. You will have access to knowledge and support that can help you navigate recovery and get back on track after rehab.
Find Help Now
If you or someone you love struggles with addiction or needs support during recovery, you are not alone. Contact the First Step Behavioral Health specialists to learn about our holistic treatment and support programs.
