Discharge is a date. Recovery needs a calendar, people, and a response when the plan bends.

An aftercare plan should contain appointments that already exist, not only intentions. Before leaving a program, ask for the date, time, place, provider, transportation plan, medication supply, and contact number for the next step in care.

Put these on one page

• The next medical, therapy, or recovery-support appointment
• Medication names, doses, refill dates, and pharmacy
• Three people to contact before using
• Places and people to avoid during the first vulnerable weeks
• Sleep, food, transportation, housing, and work plans
• Where naloxone is kept and who knows how to use it
• What to do after a return to use

If a return to use happens

Treat it as new safety information. Do not use alone; avoid mixing substances; remember tolerance may be lower; keep naloxone nearby because stimulants may contain fentanyl; and reconnect with treatment or support as quickly as possible. Call 911 for overdose symptoms or immediate danger. Call or text 988 for crisis support.

A return to use does not erase earlier work. It means the plan needs a faster response, different support, or a higher level of care.