Sober living is a step in rehabilitation for those struggling with addiction. It is an environment specifically tailored for those recovering from substance abuse and enjoying a life without drugs or alcohol. Rehabilitation centres can be an expensive and time-consuming undertaking. Sober living homes are typically more affordable, provide more freedom for residents, and are often located in less restrictive communities than rehab canters. Some even believe that addicts can go back to using drugs after living in treatment centres. Living in a sober house can be a good place for those recovering from addiction to start over.
Does Sober Living Work?
The success of sober living homes may be because addicts are there by choice. They want to get clean and live sober, so they are likelier to put forth the effort. Sober living is a lot like going away to a boarding school or college; even though you live with others, there are rules that everyone must follow. These rules include things like curfews, chores, and drug tests. Living without drugs or alcohol can be a lot harder than it seems.
What Are Sober Living Homes Like?
Sober living homes are becoming increasingly popular because they offer a drug-free lifestyle but still give addicts their freedom. Residents of sober homes can still leave whenever they want—it is just that they will not be allowed to return until the next day. Sober living facilities are typically in friendly residential neighbourhoods, away from high-crime areas or other places that might tempt addicts to use drugs. The trick is finding a home where you feel comfortable. Before moving into a sober house, you must find out if there are rules and regulations you will be expected to follow. Some sober homes will monitor your phone calls, emails, and other forms of communication. If you are uncomfortable with that, it is best to find another home.
How Do You Select a Sober Living Facility?
Finding a sober living facility should be an important and informed decision. Start by asking your friends and family if they know of any good sober living facilities in the area. Most rehab centres will have a list of recommended sober live facilities, or at least people familiar with the site and can give you some recommendations. It would help if you also looked for places that are located in safe neighbourhoods and that have a professional staff. The person in charge should be someone you trust and who is familiar with substance abuse and treatment.
How Long Should You Stay in a Sober Living Facility?
After detoxing, many addicts start using again after they return home from rehab. It is because they are not used to being around drugs or alcohol, so they are tempted to go back to using to get through the cravings. Sober living is designed to eliminate the use of alcohol and drugs, so it is best to stay as long as you are comfortable. The longer you wait in a sober living facility, and the more time passes after you leave rehab, the less likely you will return to drug use.
What Happens if You Return to Drug Use?
After addicts leave a sober living home, they should not immediately return to drug use. There are chances that they may relapse and have another bout with drinking or using drugs; this need not be an issue, however. Recovery programs are designed to help people learn how to live a sober lifestyle. Most of these are free and require no commitment, though some require an initial payment. Drugs and alcohol can be very destructive forces in people’s lives. They can destroy relationships, ruin careers, and lead to a lifetime of abuse. Drug rehabilitation centres and sober living homes can help those struggling with addiction find their way back to stability. But the most important thing is to never become dependent or addicted in the first place. Contact your physician today at 614-705-0611 to learn more about your options.