Sober living programs provide safe spaces for people recovering from substance use disorders. They typically operate as temporary living spaces and offer structure and support for individuals coming out of a detox program. Sober living programs can also help people navigate their recovery.
Advantages Of A Sober Living Program
The main advantage of a sober living program is a living environment free from drugs and alcohol. These homes give newly sober individuals a degree of freedom, as well as peer support, as they learn to navigate life without substances. An older, less commonly used name for a sober living home is a halfway house.
The early days of recovery can be a particularly vulnerable time for newly sober individuals. Fortunately, sober living homes are free from the temptation of drugs or alcohol. This substance-free environment allows individuals to focus on creating a healthy, well-structured life which can help recovering individuals create a daily routine and learn to live life without substances. Sober living programs also provide personal accountability through regular drug tests, curfews, and a zero-tolerance drug-free environment.
Sober living programs typically allow residents to interact with family and friends. In addition to combating loneliness, connecting with family members and friends can help individuals strengthen relationships and work on their communication skills.
What To Consider When Selecting A Sober Living Home
Before deciding on a sober living home, there are specific questions to consider. One of the first things to consider is what it costs to live in a sober living home. Different programs charge different fees on different schedules. As a result, individuals considering this program need to understand what they will need to pay and when.
The cost of a sober living program can vary depending on:
- Location
- Number of residents
- Size
- Extent of amenities
- Shared or single rooms
- Who is operating the home
The location of the sober living program also matters. Recovering individuals need to access medical or counseling appointments with ease. Safety is another factor to consider.
Individuals should also find out how long they can stay at the facility. Some programs may allow a person to remain indefinitely, while others may have more strict residential limits.
Most sober living programs have rules and expectations for the residents. It is essential to be fully aware of these guidelines before committing to a program.
Finally, understand the sober living home’s admission requirements. Some facilities may want proof that an individual has completed a rehab program. Others may ask for a drug screening.
Sober Living Home Checklist
Before choosing a sober living home, consider the following questions:
- Is the home clean, well-cared for, and neat?
- Is there a zero-tolerance policy for drug and alcohol use?
- Is the staff pleasant, upbeat, and interested in helping residents?
- What credentials do the team at the sober living home have?
- Are there any staff members in recovery?
- Are there any amenities offered?
- Is the home gender-specific?
- Does the home focus on a particular addiction?
- Does the individual feel they can connect or relate to the other residents?
- Are there rules such as curfews, mandatory 12-step meeting attendance, and regular drug tests?
- What is the relapse policy?
- Does the facility offer medication-assisted treatment (MAT)?
- Does the home address the individual’s specific needs?
- What is the intake process? Is it thorough?
- Does the program have a good reputation in the community and with reputable rehab centers?
During the search for a sober living program, speak to residents. Ask them about the home environment. If something feels wrong or unwelcoming, keep searching. Check out a good number of sober living homes before making your choice.
Finding A Sober Living Home
Sober living programs can be operated by religious organizations, community centers, non-profit organizations, and rehabilitation facilities. Treatment programs may be able to recommend local sober living homes. Be sure to look into what accreditation the facility has. Having a license or accreditation from a well-known national organization can indicate the quality and reputation of the sober living home.
Deciding on a sober living program may take some time and research, but these types of programs can be very beneficial. Not only do they provide a safe space for recovering individuals to learn how to manage everyday life again as a sober person, but they also allow the individual to recover at their own pace. This flexibility can be particularly beneficial because some people need more time to recover than others. A sober living home gives each individual space to recover on their timeline.
A Bridge From Addiction To Recovery
Even though recovery is a lifelong process, a sober living program can be a beneficial step toward a life without substances. Here at Bridges of Hope, our treatment philosophy relies on a comprehensive and integrated approach to addressing substance use and mental health disorders. Using proven and evidence-based clinical practices, we provide quality addiction treatment care in Indiana. Contact us today if you or someone you know is interested in sober living.
