People all know that alcoholism can be a dangerous addiction, and sober living programs provide a safe environment to allow individuals to recover without the risks associated with long-term treatment. You must find the right program, though, as they vary in every aspect. Here are some important factors you might want to consider when evaluating whether a sober living home is right for your needs.
Look at the Resident Population
The best option is to have a program that caters to your specific requirements. For instance, people who are looking for sober living homes with programs specifically designed for alcoholics will have more success if they join a program that is focused on alcoholism rather than offering a more general sober living environment.
Look at the General Living Environment
The type of roommate you’re going to end up with will be another big factor in determining whether or not you’ll be able to complete the program’s requirements. Look at the general makeup of the resident population and try to find a place with people who are similar in age, gender, interests and personality to you. It is also important that you not place yourself in an uncomfortable living situation because of your desire to be sober.
Make Sure the Staff Gets a Good Review
you must get along well with all the staff members in your sober living home. If you can’t respect your counselors, you’ll have a hard time keeping up your end of the bargain. Also, look at what type of experience the staff members have in terms of working with people who are trying to overcome addictions.
Consider Your Recovery Plan
There are a variety of different support groups and online services that you can use as part of your recovery, but it will be up to you to decide which ones are best for your situation. It would help if you tried to put together a plan that’s tailored to your specific needs and hopes for the future, looking at what types of treatment programs have worked well for others with similar goals.
Research the Program
Before you commit to any treatment, you should do your research. Please find out more about the program, who attends it and what types of support they have. Try to find out if there are any success stories or testimonials from people who have completed the program’s requirements by talking with current residents and staff members while investigating the operation of the sober living home.
Consider What You’re Willing to Give Up for Recovery
Dependency on assets such as cars, houses or other assets is not tolerated in most of these types of programs, so you’ll have to give up these things for the time being. Even though you should sell off your car if it makes sense for your situation, keep in mind that you won’t be able to drive back and forth from your treatment center very often after you complete the program. Some programs don’t allow participants who are unemployed to live at the facility because they can’t pay the rent.
Make Sure It’s the Right Choice for You
If you’re ready to make a change in your life, sober living homes are an option that you might want to explore. However, it would help if you made your decision after careful consideration of all the factors above and any other factors that apply to your specific situation.
Consider What Happens After Graduation
Many of these facilities are very good at getting their residents to complete the programs they were required to complete, but this doesn’t automatically mean that they’ll be able to handle life after graduation. Some people over-indulge and relapse if they’re sent home too soon, for instance.
Many factors go into choosing a sober living environment that truly fits your lifestyle. Try to find a program that will allow you to live the life you want without too much hassle or temptation. When you find the right place, you’ll have the opportunity to make real progress in overcoming your addiction in a safe, drug-free environment. If in need of help, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us for support. Call us at 732-392-7311.
