A sober living home is a group residence for people in recovery from addiction. Sober homes have certain rules and do not allow any drug or alcohol use among residents. Living in a sober home can be critical for a person’s addiction treatment and recovery. A safe, sober environment can provide a great foundation for long-term sobriety.
Sober Home Vs. Halfway House
A sober living home is not the same as a halfway house. Although both serve to provide a safe, sober environment for people in addiction recovery, a sober home does not have the same disadvantages as a halfway house. For example, most sober homes do not limit how long residents can stay. In a halfway house, residents have to move out at a certain deadline, whether they are ready to leave or not. Most halfway houses also require that residents attend substance abuse treatments or meetings.
The Benefits Of A Sober Home During Treatment And Recovery
Many people live in sober homes either during outpatient addiction treatment or after rehabilitation but before moving back home. Sober homes are stable and safe environments that can help people maintain their sobriety after treatment. Many sober homes require residents to stick to a curfew or get jobs. Residents may also have to take drug and alcohol tests to prove their sobriety if they wish to stay. Sober homes can have many benefits for those in treatment for addiction, including:
- A chance to adjust. It can be difficult to jump right back into life as a sober individual. Going back to your old home or job around the same people could let you slip back into the same habits. Going to a sober home instead can give you a chance to maintain sobriety as you adjust to life after treatment. It is a great place to transition.
- Likeminded residents. You will not have to worry about associating with old friends or bad influences in a sober home. The other residents will understand your journey because they will be going through the same thing. You will be in a home with likeminded people who can form a great support system during treatment and recovery.
- Healthy responsibility. Living in a sober home is different from an inpatient rehabilitation program. You will have responsibilities, such as following the rules, cleaning up after yourself, and doing chores. You may also have to pay rent and purchase your own food. A sober home can teach responsibility without the risk of relapse.
- Safety and comfort. After struggling with an addiction, you may have lost your job, your home, and your relationships with friends and family. You might not have anywhere to go after completing detox. A sober home is a great choice for a safe and stable space on a budget. Moving into a safe, sober environment can help you stay committed to your recovery by eliminating stress.
The rules of a sober home change from location to location. Violating the rules will have consequences, such as paying a fine or being asked to leave the sober home. The rules provide structure and balance for residents, as well as teaching accountability. The primary rule is that everyone must stay sober. You must obey the rules of the house if you wish to stay at a sober home.
Is A Sober Home Right For You?
Moving into a sober home during treatment or recovery may be right for you if you have recently completed a substance abuse rehabilitation program. Completing a program before joining a sober house can help ensure you have the ability and tools to remain sober. If you are seeking initial treatment for an addiction, you may want to research a detoxification or rehab program instead of a sober house. Keep a sober house in mind, however, once you complete the program and have some sober weeks under your belt.
If you are new to sobriety, you may still join a sober house as long as you can stay sober and live by the rules. Most sober homes cost the same as rent on a modest apartment. The average cost is between $450 and $750 per month, depending on location. Getting a job to pay for rent is part of the recovery process. Living in a sober home is generally cheaper than inpatient rehab. Note, however, that most sober homes do not include daily therapy sessions.
A sober home can be a great way to transition from addiction treatment program back to your regular life. Sober homes are clean, safe spaces where you can focus on your sobriety without any temptations. Living by the rules of the house can teach you how to stand on your own two feet again without drugs or alcohol. You can learn more about yourself, your triggers, your goals, and your recovery journey while staying at a sober living home.
How To Find A Sober Home
If a sober home sounds like the right move for you, research options in your area. Search online for trustworthy sober homes near you. Look for reviews and testimonials from past residents to make sure it is a place you can trust. Visit in person to see where you will be living. Make sure to read and understand all the rules before you move. You may need to complete a treatment program before the sober home will accept you.
