Rehabilitation for addiction treatment sets the stage for recovery, but it’s the discharge plan that ensures long-term health and wellness. A good discharge plan helps orchestrate the transition from structured care to independent living by assessing progress, mental and physical health, and readiness to face external stressors.
A well-crafted discharge plan acts as a lifeline, equipping individuals with coping mechanisms, support networks, and resources needed to navigate the challenges of life after rehab. And, by involving loved ones in the discharge planning process, it fosters a collective understanding of everyone’s roles and responsibilities. In essence, the significance of a good discharge plan lies not only in its ability to safeguard individual well-being but also in its capacity to strengthen familial and communal support networks. In this way, clients see the best chances of long-term recovery success.
“Our programs are designed intentionally so that clients come away with a comprehensive discharge plan,” said Dr. Trevor Bixler, VP of Clinical Services at Northpoint Recovery.
What is a Discharge Plan?
For those undergoing residential addiction treatment, the focus is on getting well. But as the stay in rehab nears its end, both the client and the medical staff should consider what comes next. That’s where discharge planning comes in.
Discharge planning is the process of preparing for your transition from residential addiction treatment back to everyday life. The creation of a good discharge plan involves the client and their loved ones working with the treatment team to come up with an actionable plan that includes continuing care and support. With the right planning, the client can continue their recovery journey.
The Discharge Process
The discharge process for rehab can sometimes get bumpy for both clients and their loved ones. Many factors go into deciding when someone is ready to leave treatment and return to everyday life. The treatment team must consider various factors in planning what is best for the client. This includes the client’s progress in their treatment, their current physical and mental health, and their ability to manage the stressors and triggers that are likely to come their way.
The first step in the discharge process is to meet with the treatment team to develop a plan for continued care. This plan can include recommendations for further treatment, support groups, considerations of sober living accommodations, recommendations for alumni services, and other stuff.
Once the discharge plan is in place, the client will meet with their discharge coordinator to go over the plan and ensure all resources are readily available and understood. The discharge coordinator will also help the client make necessary arrangements for continued care, such as setting up future therapy appointments.
After the discharge process is completed, the client will be given a complete discharge packet with everything they need to stay connected to the support they need to thrive in their recovery journey.
So What Goes into a Discharge Plan?
A good discharge plan isn’t just a checklist. It’s a lifeline, offering hope and guidance toward a brighter future.
Discharge plans vary according to the person being discharged. However, an effective discharge plan should contain several tools that can help keep clients on track in their recovery.
Personal Health Information (Including Medication)
Addiction can ravage one’s physical and mental health, so it should come as little surprise if it turns out that the client is leaving rehab with a few recommended exercises, physical therapies, or a new medication regimen. Random drug tests may also be in the client’s future, particularly since many employers require them.
Living Accommodations
In cases where a client’s home life is deemed especially triggering, an effective discharge plan involves strategies to improve that environment or recommendations for a new living arrangement, such as a sober living home or facility.
Life and Coping Skills
No matter how long someone has participated in inpatient or residential treatment, the return to everyday life can be a fraught and disorienting experience. Therefore, a good discharge plan might contain recommendations for educational programs for life skills related to work, finances, or parenting. Meanwhile, recommended mindfulness classes on yoga or exercise can further develop the tools needed to cope with urges to use again.
A Relapse Plan
While there is a very good chance that you will not relapse after leaving treatment, one should have a plan in place for exactly what steps to take should relapse occur, or even if one feels a strong urge to start abusing substances again.
Helpful Contacts
A discharge plan should include contact information for anyone making up the client’s support system. This can include medical or professional support, like a substance abuse counselor or therapist. It can also include informal support like a sponsor, family members, and close friends.
Life After Treatment
Discharge planning is a crucial aspect of the addiction recovery process, serving as a roadmap for the transition from inpatient treatment to everyday life. Furthermore, it’s a comprehensive strategy tailored to the individual’s needs, addressing their unique triggers, coping mechanisms, and support systems.
Discharge planning also provides for people the tools and resources needed to navigate their challenges post-treatment. Whether it’s identifying healthy coping mechanisms or securing stable housing, an effective discharge plan equips people with the skills they need to rebuild their lives and restore their relationships.
Find Comprehensive, Individualized Treatment at Northpoint Colorado
Considering residential addiction treatment in Loveland, Colo? It’s a crucial decision for those battling substance use disorder or seeking stability and professional mental health support. At Northpoint Colorado, our experts offer tailored 24/7 care for high-level recovery. Contact us at 888.231.1281 to learn more or begin enrollment online today.
