At Rockland Recovery, we’re invested in the philosophy that relationships are the cornerstone of recovery. We pride ourselves on our programs that help people not only overcome addiction, but also learn to reach out, connect, and form meaningful relationships. Our Alumni Program is one area that we’re most proud of.
Jump to Section
We believe in the value of our alumni program for providing our clients with the ongoing connection and support they need. There is so much effort and focus put into the early stages of addiction recovery, and while this emphasis is critical, we don’t want to neglect the need for continued support that comes after.
Staying connected and feeling a sense of belonging to an alumni recovery network can help prevent relapse and keep individuals on track for the future.
What Is an Alumni Program
The goal of addiction treatment is maintaining long-term sobriety, but what are the most effective ways of ensuring this happens? Research tells us the answer is about connection, experiencing a feeling of belonging, and knowing that a strong support network is in place.
Our Alumni Program at Rockland Recovery checks off all of these boxes.
Alumni programs are a point of connection for those who have a shared experience of completing addiction treatment. A strong rehab alumni community is created of individuals who are at various stages of their post-treatment recovery journey, along with staff members who facilitate meetings, coordinate events, and help to keep everyone involved in activities that support growth and connection.
Many people associate the word “alumni” with former classmates which puts an image in one’s mind of class reunion, except in this case, it’s people who have a shared recovery experience. Alumni programs often offer fun activities, but there’s serious work happening below the surface.
A rehab alumni program can be beneficial in preventing relapse, offering encouragement, and helping members learn that having fun and being part of a group doesn’t have to include drugs or alcohol. Life can be fun and vibrant without substance use, and alumni programs offer a safe space for members to navigate what this means for them.
Post-Treatment Support Group
The importance of maintaining and building new connections post-treatment is something we can’t stress enough. Being part of an alumni group can help the individual rebuild their identity and sense of self as an active member of society. We’ve witnessed significant benefits to self-esteem and confidence in clients who are actively involved in our alumni programs.
Members of alumni networks connect in a number of ways. Depending on the program, there may be ongoing group meetings, community volunteering events, special events, such as picnics, movie nights, or educational opportunities. Some alumni networks also offer social media platforms as a way of staying connected in between group events.
Benefits of an Alumni Program
- Connection to mentors and the opportunity to mentor others
- Confidence that comes with knowing you have a strong support network
- Having the opportunity to talk about your journey with someone going through a similar experience
- Maintaining sober friendships
- Sober social opportunities
- Continued access to programs offered by the addiction treatment center
- Development of new skills
- A safe space free of judgment and biases
- Improved long-term outcomes – fewer cases of relapse
When Is the Right Time to Join a Post-Recovery Support Network
Alumni programs are an important aspect of the continuum of care for addiction. Individuals who are in active treatment, whether that’s inpatient therapy, partial hospitalization, or intensive outpatient, should be focusing their energy on the present and working through the difficult challenges of these stages of recovery. At this stage of treatment, group support can be found through group therapy and meetings.
Once an individual reaches the transitional end stage of addiction treatment, they’re at a point where connecting with an alumni network becomes beneficial.
Some people participate in alumni networks while they’re residing in sober living homes, still following an aftercare plan, or living fully independently. Each person, at each stage, contributes something unique and valuable to the group setting.
Rockland Recovery’s Alumni Program in Massachusetts
At Rockland Recovery, we’re committed to your healing and helping you overcome addiction from beginning to end. Our Alumni Program is designed to meet the needs of its members and foster a continuing sense of community and belonging. If you’d like to learn more about our Alumni Programs in Massachusetts, reach out to us at 888-299-4833 and speak to one of our care coordinators today.
