A successful drug treatment program has many components. Each component works together to give clients the tools and support they need to achieve long-term recovery. When thinking about the most important components of a recovery program, we think of therapy, medical detox, and even life and coping skills training. Perhaps one of the most crucial components of an evidence-based treatment program is peer recovery services.
This article will better familiarize you with intensive peer recovery services and how peer recovery support helps motivate clients to work their recovery program. Peer recovery support services are at the heart of The Nook and our sober living programs. If you or a loved one is transitioning from rehab back into your normal daily routine, The Nook has your back. Call us today to learn more about our sober living homes in Los Angeles.
What Are Peer Recovery Programs?
Peer recovery programs provide mentoring, education, and support for newly recovering addicts who have just completed treatment and re-entering their daily lives. Peer recovery support services are administered by people who are in recovery themselves and can impart their knowledge and wisdom to others. Peer recovery services first arose in the 1990s and were known as “patient navigator” services. Initially, intensive peer recovery services were used for people recovering from major diseases such as cancer. Over time, these services were adapted into the addiction recovery space.
What Are the Benefits of Peer Recovery Programs?
Peer recovery programs provide those new in recovery immense benefits. The first benefit of these programs is to build honesty and accountability. The hallmark of a solid recovery is being honest with oneself and being accountable when one falls short. This is done through random drug testing, family meetings, and recovery planning. Another benefit of intensive peer recovery programs is that essential life and coping skills are developed. These include proper diet and exercise, attending regular support meetings, and having solid financial education.
Many peer recovery programs feature recovery planning. All who graduate from rehab have an individualized recovery program they must follow to ensure they are staying on track. In a peer-led program, newly recovering addicts will check in with mentors to see what is working and which components need to be strengthened. Additionally, peer recovery involves the community at large. Exposure to resources that aid and support widens the support network and strengthens one’s recovery.
The leaders in peer recovery groups can either be volunteers, staff from rehab facilities, or other professionals. For these people, the goals are the following:
- Keep recovery first and foremost
- Respect that each client will take a different route to long-term recovery
- Help clients be active participants in their recovery
- Provide powerful examples of how recovery is possible
- Focusing on the strengths and resiliencies of each client
What Are Examples of Peer-Led Recovery Programs?
When finding examples of peer recovery programs, 12-Step programs such as AA or NA comes to mind. These support groups are made up of peers sharing similar experiences in recovery, and they provide accountability and motivation to stay focused in recovery. Peer recovery services can be found in many, if not all, aftercare programs at all rehabs. These can include intensive outpatient programs, alumni programs, and sober living homes.
These aftercare components allow staff and previous graduates to guide new graduates as they slowly transition back to normal life. Peer recovery programs build a sense of community with those in recovery. This solid recovery network provides a buffer for those newly sober and allows them to grow into recovery in a supportive environment where they are held accountable. Having peer support builds confidence and transforms those in recovery.
Are You Looking to Take Your Recovery To the Next Level?
If you have just completed a drug treatment program, re-entering normal life is both exciting and frightening. With temptations around every corner, what do you need to do to keep focused on yourself? The Nook is a sober living housing network whose top priority is creating a strong sense of family and community. Our sober living programs are evidence-based, and we provide quality clinical support to those in need. When you enter our Southern California sober living network, you have a village behind you. Call the Nook today and gain confidence in your newfound recovery with our sober living home for men.