• Withdrawal Period (0-1 month): This stage marks the initial phase after individuals stop using alcohol or drugs. During the first month without substance use, they may experience physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can vary from person to person, with some experiencing more intense physical symptoms while others may experience more intense psychological symptoms. Seeking medical support to assess these withdrawal symptoms, coupled with psychological and medical treatments, will gradually alleviate and diminish these symptoms, enabling individuals to resume their lives with less disruption.
• Early Recovery Period (1-3 months): This stage signifies a time when withdrawal symptoms have diminished or ceased and individuals no longer feel compelled to use alcohol or drugs. However, they may mistakenly believe they have fully recovered and no longer require treatment, potentially overlooking certain risky situations. During this stage, individuals should be informed about these situations. In addition, individuals may also experience fatigue, lethargy and feelings of depression.
• Prolonged Recovery Period (3-6 months): This stage is characterized by uncertainty for individuals who have structured much of their lives around addiction and may struggle to navigate life without addictive behaviors. They may experience feelings of dissatisfaction, anhedonia and emptiness. It is a period when they may be vulnerable to relapse behaviors and thoughts that could lead to alcohol or drug use. Active participation in self-help groups and continued psychosocial support can aid individuals in navigating this period more comfortably.
• Restructuring Phase (6 months and beyond): During this phase, individuals in recovery move beyond previous stages and embark on the final stage of restructuring, where they begin to form new friendships and interests, thus creating a new lifestyle. Additionally, they may seek employment during this phase. Essentially, in this phase, individuals move away from many withdrawal symptoms and feelings of longing for the past, replacing them with new and healthy habits to fill certain gaps.
• Finally, the recovery process involves individuals gaining a better understanding of themselves, recognizing the factors contributing to substance use and acquiring skills to intervene. The gains made during the recovery process are crucial for preventing relapse after treatment.

Green Crescent Counseling Center (YEDAM), a service provided by the Turkish Green Crescent Society, primarily offers psychosocial support to individuals with addiction and their families, without providing medical detoxification or medical support services. If there is a need for medical treatment, individuals are assessed and referred to other appropriate institutions accordingly.

Criteria for medical support:

• If there are any withdrawal symptoms and if their severity, frequency and impact on daily life are increasing,
• If there is a significant and clear physical and/or mental disease,
• If substance use is frequent and withdrawal periods are short,
• If previous outpatient treatments have been unsuccessful,
• If the individual is living in an environment suitable for alcohol/substance use (such as their surroundings, occupation, etc.),
• If there is heroin or similar substance use involved,
• If the individual is experiencing confusion or reports confusion at home (such as loss of orientation in place, direction and time),
• If there is a history of epileptic (seizure) episodes,
• If there has been a history of delirium tremens.

In such cases, individuals are referred to an Alcohol and Substance Treatment Center (AMATEM). It is essential for a Social Services Specialist to accompany individuals referred for medical support, as they ensure the seamless integration of treatment processes with YEDAM by overseeing their hospital procedures.