Addiction is listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) as a relapsing brain disorder that is characterized by compulsively engaging in rewarding stimuli without regard for the negative consequences. Hence, the path of recovery from substance abuse and/ or addiction is not necessarily linear, nor will it be the same for every person. Each individual is different and will require a somewhat unique treatment plan that caters to the specific needs of each respective individual. Loosely, the treatment process for substance abuse and/ or addiction is often comprised of a detox phase, a substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment program and an aftercare plan. Each portion of the treatment process has many different options. For example, there are outpatient substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment programs as well as inpatient treatment options. The details of each part of the recovery process will vary from person to person significantly.
Sober Living Specifics
Depending on the situation, an individual may elect to move into a sober living facility after the completion of a substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment program. The length of time an individual opts to reside in a sober living facility will differ. The Journal of Psychoactive Drugs found that the average stay in a sober living facility ranges between 166 to 254 days. For those with families, although the prospect of living away from them for a longer period of time may seem daunting, residing in a sober living facility can be incredibly helpful to one’s continued sober success. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), the length of time an individual spends in substance abuse treatment (including sober living) can directly increase his or her outcome in recovery.
There are a plethora of different options when it comes to sober living facilities. Every sober living facility will have its own set of house rules, but there are several rules that are common to most sober living facilities. For example, in order to be able to reside in a sober living facility, each resident must agree to adhere to all the pre-specified rules, and fully understand that violations will result in consequences. Sober living facilities offer an individual in recovery an opportunity to continue to practice implementing the lessons learned during his or her treatment program, without being exposed to the triggers that may otherwise present when immediately returning to one’s home environment. Individuals that live in sober living facilities all have the same primary goal: to remain sober.
Subsequent to the completion of a substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment program an individual may benefit from additional support. Sober living is an excellent transitional residential option for an individual who has completed a substance use and/ or addiction treatment program and may need a little additional time honing his or her coping mechanisms and communication skills taught in treatment, prior to returning to his or her home environment.
For Information and Support
If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one in regards to substance abuse and/ or addiction we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. If left untreated, substance abuse can result in long lasting and potentially life-threatening consequences. Keep in mind: you are not alone! There is an entire network of professionals that are available to help and support you and your loved one throughout the recovery process. The earlier you seek support, the sooner your loved one can return to a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life.
Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions regarding our specific program at Haven House Addiction Treatment and/ or general substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment related information. Our highly trained staff is readily available to discuss how we might best be able to help you and your loved one. We can be reached by phone at 424-258-6792. You are also welcome to contact anytime us via email at admissions@hhtxc.com.
