One common question people have while in treatment is “where am I going to live when I get out?” This can be a major source of anxiety for people who are in the process of getting sober and learning a new way of life. It’s hard not to get stressed when you don’t know what you are going to do when you graduate your program.

Relax. One of the amazing things about recovery and this new way of life is the fact that things seem to fall into place easier than they ever did in your using days. Not only that, but you will find that you have access to an amazing community of people who are there to support you through difficult and uncertain times.

Living Options In Recovery

While some people will be returning home after rehab, this isn’t the case for everyone. Some people don’t have a home to return to. Some don’t have a clean and sober, safe place to go. The good news is that there are options available for living in recovery. A popular option, especially for those who are new to recovery, is a sober living home.

 

What Is A Sober Living Home?

Just as it sounds, it is a home specifically for people who are living a clean and sober lifestyle. Drugs and alcohol are not permitted on the premises, and people who are under the influence are not permitted.

A sober living home is usually a single-family residence, although there are also small apartment complexes, as well. The rooms are rented out as either singles, doubles or dorm-style. It’s common to have a shared room, although there are also single rooms available in some sober living homes. Kitchens, bathrooms and living areas are communal, and residents are responsible for the upkeep of the home.

Advantages To A Sober Living Home

One of the biggest problems people face in addiction is isolation. This can also become a problem in recovery. A sober living environment helps newly recovering addicts avoid this. Other benefits include:

A safe environment with no drugs or alcohol.
A place to call home.
Lower cost than renting an apartment.
Often easier to get into than an apartment, especially for those who don’t have credit. Allows you to build a good rental history.
A sense of community and support.
What Is It Like To Live In A Sober Living Environment?

Most people look back fondly on their time in a sober living environment and cherish the long-term friendships they form there. Although living with others has its downsides, it is balanced by the sense of community, and the feeling of security and safety.

There are rules in a sober living environment, although it is not as structured as a rehab. For the most part, you are simply moving forward with your life. You get up, go to work or school, or pursue looking for work. You hang out with friends and go do things. You live life. Some of the common sober living home rules include:

• No drugs or alcohol, or being under the influence.
• No overnight guests.
• There may be a curfew.
• You are expected to pitch in and do chores.
• You may be expected to attend 12 step meetings.
• You may have to drug test

These are some common rules, each place is different.

How To Choose A Good Sober Living Home

Not all sober living homes are the same. Some are low-quality and aren’t as safe as others. It’s important that you investigate the place you are considering. There have been horror stories of people who run “sober living homes” who are just in it to collect money, but don’t care about the residents, don’t keep it a safe place, and don’t enforce the clean and sober part.

One of the best ways to find a quality sober living home is to talk to others. Find out what their experiences are. Ask the following questions:

• Is there an on-site house manager?
• Is it clean, and in good repair?
• Is there someone there to talk to if there is a problem?
• How is negative behavior handled?
• Is there a good sense of recovery there?

It’s important to feel supported in your recovery. The ideal sober living home is full of people who are on the same path, and who are moving forward and making a positive change in their lives. You want to be sure that there are really no drugs or alcohol being used there, and that if someone slips up (which happens) it is handled immediately.

You also want to know there is someone on hand to deal with any problems, and that there is good communication happening. It is common for many sober living homes to hold weekly house meetings, to air issues and make sure everyone is on the same page.
More Questions To Ask When Choosing A Sober Living Environment

People who go to a quality sober living environment after treatment often have higher success rates than those who choose to go back home or go live by themselves. It’s the support that makes the difference. But, it’s not just about being clean and sober. It’s also about learning the skills necessary to live life to the fullest.

Finding a sober living environment that supports you and encourages you in your goals is important. Most good sober living homes will strongly encourage you to seek employment, and you will be expected to take on responsibilities such as managing finances and learning the skills necessary to run a household. This is important because eventually you will be moving on to your own place. A good sober living home prepares you for this.

Sober Living At Broadway Treatment Center

Broadway Treatment Center offers inpatient rehab services, as well as outpatient aftercare and sober living services. We are a cutting-edge and award-winning program that provides comprehensive services to our clients. If you are struggling with addiction and want to change your life, we can help you. Call Broadway Treatment Center at 714-443-8218 today.