What is the best way to support a friend who is checked in a substance-abuse recovery program?

I have a friend who has checked into a 30-day substance abuse program. What is the best way to support this friend? Send cards and letters? Books? Any thoughts appreciated.

Continue to just be a friend. Do not agree with dysfunctional (wrong) behavior. You can visit them if they are in an inpatient setting, and if your up to it. If visiting is not allowed a phone call, letter, pack of cigarettes if they smoke (I do not smoke nor do I encourage it). Hard candy, depending on the substance, is always a nice treat. (If they are diabetic they need sugar free). Just letting them know that they still have a friend. If you participate in the substance, Quit, or do not use it around them. Encourage them to stay clean and sober and stick with the 12 step program. In addition they will probably need to attend AA (alcoholics anonymous) or NA (narcotics anonymous) when they get out. You could volunteer to attend one of the meetings with them if you would like to be a long term supporter of this person. Good luck, more people need friends like you, whether they have a substance abuse or not. Don't forget to take care of yourself during this stressful time.

are you on the same substance? if so, get to the hospital. if not, visit her, help her through it. that comertial where one guy has a mental illness and they say they are less likely to recover without support also applies to drugs. help her.

All of the above! What helps the most is to let them know that you are behind them all the way, in their effort to get better.