Sober living facilities are optional group homes for individuals who have recently completed substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment program that wish to move into transitional housing prior to returning home. They offer a compromise between the high structure and accountability found in a residential treatment program and the freedom and lack of structure and accountability in an independent living situation. Residing in a sober living home can help a recovering individual reinforce healthy daily habits (e.g., practicing mindfulness techniques, exercising regularly, developing healthy sleeping habits, eating nutritiously, etc.) to further improve his or her overall health and wellbeing. There is a plethora of sober living facilities available to those in need, each with distinct characteristics, located in different geographical areas, offering a variety of wide-ranging amenities. Every sober living facility has its own set of house rules, expectations of its residents, fees, and requirements. Each sober living home is different, and most are privately owned. The purpose of a sober living facility is not to shield individuals from reality, but instead to help people take the necessary preparatory steps to fully reintegrate into society and strengthen their foundation of recovery to enable prolonged and sustained sobriety.
The Benefits Of Having A Sober Living House In Your Neighborhood
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), asserts that the length of time an individual spends in substance abuse treatment (including sober living) can directly increase his or her outcome in recovery. While sober living homes can be integral to the recovery process for those struggling with substance abuse and/ or addiction, unfortunately, the presence of a sober living home in one’s neighborhood comes with an unwarranted stigma. Many people maintain an erroneous illusion that a sober living house will attract drug activity, poorly maintained homes and yards, loud music, traffic, and criminals. Further, there is a perpetuated myth that a sober living house can drive down property values. People fail to recognize the many benefits that come along with having a sober living home in your neighborhood, such as:
- Residents are respectful and quiet, and take pride in the curb appeal of the sober living home, keeping it clean and well maintained.
- Residents are eager to find opportunities to give back to their communities through volunteer work.
- Sober living houses often organize the clean-up of trash and debris in their neighborhoods.
- Residents will find ways to improve the neighborhood, by planting a community garden, for example.
- Residents are keen to help others and lend a helping hand to the elderly and others in need.
The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines addiction as “a compulsive, chronic, physiological or psychological need for a habit-forming substance, behavior, or activity having harmful physical, psychological, or social effects and typically causing well-defined symptoms (such as anxiety, irritability, tremors, or nausea) upon withdrawal or abstinence.” Addiction, clinically known as substance use disorder (SUD), is listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) as a complex, chronic brain disorder that can wreak havoc in all areas of one’s life. Sober living homes are designed to help people recovering from addiction mend the pieces of their shattered lives. As part of the healing process, residents are encouraged to make a positive difference in the lives of others. This type of selfless service brings neighbors closer and makes them better places to live.
For Information and Support
If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one regarding 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.
