When it comes to addiction recovery, sober living homes are a vital part of the process.
Why?
Sober homes offer people in recovery a unique, safe environment to recover in. Drug-free, organized, and safe, sober living homes provide the ideal environment in which to rehearse a new healthy life.
Here are three big reasons why anyone in recovery ought to consider some time in a sober living home.
Sober Living Houses are Safe Places
The first and most obvious reason to live in a sober home is for the safety it offers. Sober living homes are generally well-organized, drug-free spaces with rules and consequences in place to help residents stay on track.
For people who have just left treatment (or are in or entering the outpatient stages of care) at a drug rehab or addiction center, this can be an invaluable support system. It can provide much-needed structure and stability as residents work to rebuild their lives.
It might sound strange for an adult to live in an environment where there’s a curfew and assigned chores, but these rules are essential for rebuilding a successful life. Addiction seriously damages life skills and being able to rehearse the fundamental skills of life helps build a strong foundation for a happy, successful life free from addiction.
Also, there are no drugs in a sober living home.
This means there are no distractions, no temptations, and far less chance of a relapse. Plus, living in a sober home means you’re free from the bad and sometimes dangerous behaviors associated with drug addiction. In a communal environment, that’s important.
Sober Living Homes Offer Constant Support
One of the best things about sober living homes is the constant support they offer residents. In early recovery, it’s not uncommon to feel lost or alone. Sober living homes provide a built-in support system of staff and fellow residents who understand what you’re going through.
This can be an invaluable resource as you navigate early recovery and begin to build a new life. It’s also a great way to make new friends and expand your support network, which is essential for long-term success in recovery.
Sometimes, old relationships aren’t the greatest thing in recovery. Friends who are still caught up in substance use might not understand your decision to get sober — or indeed may try to discourage you. While it’s painful to let go of old friends, sometimes a clean break with the past is what’s needed in recovery.
The relationships we make in recovery and in sober living can last for lifetimes. Having a group of people you can rely on and stay accountable to is invaluable.
Sober Living Homes are Peaceful Environments
Another big benefit of sober living homes is the peace and quiet they offer. In early recovery, it’s important to have a calm, safe place to heal and focus on getting well. Sober living homes provide just that – an environment free from distractions, drama, and chaos.
This can be a huge relief after leaving treatment or coming out of an intense outpatient program. It’s also a great way to avoid triggering situations or people who might not have your best interests at heart.
Sober living homes offer a respite from the outside world, which can be vital in early recovery. It’s important to have a place to go where you can relax, recharge, and refocus on your goals.
There are many other benefits of sober living homes, but these are some of the most important ones. If you’re considering sober living, or if you’re just starting out in recovery, keep these things in mind. They could make all the difference in your journey to a successful life in recovery!
Finding a Sober Living Home
The hunt for a sober living home isn’t always easy.
There are many different kinds of houses out there. Some are aimed at certain age groups or restricted to a particular gender. Many sober homes are affiliated with drug treatment centers and may require attending one to live in the home. Others may revolve around religion, or shared interests like outdoor sports.
Like any living arrangement, it’s smart to ask questions beforehand. Always ask questions like:
- What are the living arrangements like?
- What’s the neighborhood around the sober home like?
- Are utilities free, or do I need to pay for WiFi and so on?
- Are pets allowed?
- How long do people stay here?
- What’s the rent situation like?
These questions will help you determine what sober home is for you – and which ones you might want to avoid. Doing a bit of legwork beforehand will make your stay in a sober home much easier.
Also, you might want to review some advice on what to pack before you move in. Knowing what to bring (and what to leave at home) will make your transition into the sober home much easier.
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All you need to do is register and start searching.
We’ll help you find a roof over your head as you recover. Search now with SoberLivingNearYou.com today!