Last updated · How we write and source our guides
Step 1
Build a continuing-care plan
The next step may include residential care, outpatient treatment, medications, mental health care, primary care, peer support, or recovery housing.
- Schedule follow-up before discharge
- Understand every medication
- Plan transportation
- Identify crisis contacts
- Discuss naloxone and overdose risk
Step 2
Returning to use can be dangerous
Tolerance can fall after detox or a period without opioids. Using the same amount as before can cause overdose. Naloxone can reverse an opioid overdose temporarily, but emergency help is still necessary.
Step 3
Planning continuing care
Before leaving any program, ask for a written plan that names the next appointment, the provider, and any medications to continue. NIDA notes that addiction is a chronic condition and that ongoing care, like care for other long-term health conditions, can help people stay on track.
Step 4
Mutual-help and peer support
Alcoholics Anonymous holds free meetings in person and online, and its meeting finder can show options near you. Nar-Anon supports family members and friends of people who use drugs. Many people combine these groups with professional treatment.
Step 5
If a return to use happens
A return to use does not mean treatment has failed. It can be a sign that the plan needs to change. Reach out to a provider soon. After a period without opioids, tolerance drops, so overdose risk is higher. Keep naloxone available and call 911 for any suspected overdose.
Step 6
Help any time in New York
The New York State HOPEline from OASAS offers confidential help and referrals 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. For a mental health or substance use crisis, call or text 988.
Before leaving a program, make sure you have
- A scheduled next appointment with a named provider
- A plan for any medications, including refills
- A list of local and online support meetings
- Crisis numbers: 911, 988, and the NYS HOPEline
- Naloxone, if opioids are involved
Related guides
Continue reading: review ongoing treatment options · find guidance for families and loved ones · revisit the detox guide for a first step
Sources and further reading
- Treatment and recovery (NIDA)
- Find an A.A. meeting (Alcoholics Anonymous)
- Support for families affected by drug use (Nar-Anon)
- NYS HOPEline: 24/7 help and referral (NY OASAS)
- About overdose prevention (CDC)
Links are provided for education and do not imply endorsement of this site. Medical information should be reviewed with a qualified professional. See all authoritative sources.