It is recognised that the period immediately following treatment represents a time of high risk for relapse, and as such appropriate support is important at this time. This may be provided by aftercare, which comprises a broad range of community-based service supports designed to maintain the benefits that have been achieved when a structured treatment has been completed (UNODC 2003). The provision of aftercare offers the opportunity to reinforce
Treatment interventions and may reduce the number, Length and severity of relapse (National Treatment Agency).
Aftercare may comprise:
- Attendance at self-help groups (AA, NA, etc.)
- Regular phone contact
- Occasional scheduled appointments
• availability of drop-in visits. for Substance Misuse 2006).