In the recovery community, you’ll often hear people refer to sober living, and this term can be somewhat confusing. On the surface, sober living can simply mean choosing to engage in a lifestyle that avoids the use of drugs and alcohol. Many people who complete a treatment program could say that they are advocates of sober living. The other meaning of the term refers to a form of addiction treatment that is aimed at relapse prevention. When you are curious about what is sober living, then it is likely that you are wondering about how this type of care can help you stay off of drugs and alcohol.
A sober living home is exactly what it sounds like. The residents in this type of living environment all agree to choose to stay sober. This means not bringing drugs and alcohol into the home where other residents could be tempted to stray from their commitment to sobriety. It also means that you will agree to not show up intoxicated since this also poses a risk to everyone in the home. While all sober living homes stick to this agreement, you’ll find that the rules and amenities vary from one place to another. Learning more about how this type of living environment helps you stay sober gives you more insight into options that you might consider taking advantage of as you work on your recovery.
What Are the Benefits of Living In a Sober Home?
Sober living homes are accepting places where you’ll meet people who understand your struggles with addiction. Once you choose to live in one, you’ll find that it is easier to stay sober when you are surrounded by support. These are just a few of the reasons why people choose sober living.
- Live in a drug and alcohol-free environment
- Gain access to 24/7 support
- Continue to receive addiction treatment and counseling services
- Get help with finding ways to serve your community by volunteering or working
- Learn how to have better relationships in sobriety
- Discover new and exciting activities that make sober life fun
You might choose to live in a sober living home if you know that you cannot go back to where you lived before. This might be your best choice if the people you used to live with are continuing to use drugs or alcohol. Some people use sober living as a bridge that helps them transition back to normal life after staying at an inpatient program. You may also prefer sober living for getting back on track after a brief lapse in your sobriety.
Can You Work and Have A Social Life In Sober Living?
The primary goal of most sober living homes is for everyone to be a contributing member of society. At first, you might spend most of your time engaging in the primary aspects of your recovery plan. This might mean going to counseling sessions for most of the day, but you may also have the option of doing group therapy in the evening so that you can work if you currently have a career. Depending upon your situation, you may already have a job or be going to school. If not, then a member of your sober living community can help you find gainful employment or get set up on an educational plan.
When it comes to a social life, sober living homes are thriving! You’ll quickly make new friends from the moment that you move in, and you’ll never have to worry about them pressuring you to use drugs and alcohol. Sober living friends love doing things both at home and out in the community. From swimming to hiking to late night chats, socializing is a primary part of living in a sober home.
<h3>How Can I Get Into a Sober Living Environment?</h3>
There are several paths you can take to get into a sober living environment. Some people are referred to a home by their initial treatment program. Others find a home that suits their personality and needs and fill out an application to move in. During the application process, you may be asked to submit to a drug and alcohol screening or provide information about your treatment. Once you are approved, you’ll make your commitment to follow the rules of the community and prepare to move in.
Are you intrigued by the prospect of moving into a sober living home? If so, give us a call at 732-392-7311. We’ll help you find a fun and social living environment that supports your sobriety.
