Sober Living Recovery Resources

Many people have heard about so-called “sobriety” programs or rehabs, which provide treatment services for those suffering from substance use disorders (i.e., drug addiction). However, many aren’t aware that another option is sober living. Sober living is an alternative approach to alcohol rehabilitation that provides housing facilities with strict rules designed around sobriety and recovery. The goal of these residential centers is not just to help patients overcome their addictions — it’s also to facilitate long-term change by teaching them how to live without drinking or using drugs.

Recovery Resources

Many recovering addicts believe they need professional assistance when trying to recover. However, if you’ve been struggling with addiction for any time, experts suggest seeking help through one of several reputable organizations that can assist your journey toward sobriety.

  • Alcoholics Anonymous (http://www.aa.org) has provided peer support since 1935. A nationwide network of groups across the United States, AA offers traditional 12 step meetings and online chat rooms and forums filled with thousands of members battling similar issues.
  • Another group known for its success rate among users is Narcotics Anonymous (http://na.net), founded in 1966. NA emphasizes replacing negative feelings caused by addictive behaviors with positive thoughts. Like AA, NA operates worldwide through local chapters.
  • The third-largest self-help organization is Gamblers Anonymous (http://www.gamblinganonymous.org), formed in 1932 during Prohibition. GA strives to educate gamblers on problem gambling and the prevention thereof. With over 2 million active members worldwide, GA is best suited for those looking at ways to avoid falling back into old habits.

Sober Living Guide

Now that you know all about the different types of recovery options available let’s talk about what happens inside a sober living home. 

  • For starters, most residents will be expected to follow specific guidelines while staying in residence, such as curfews, no-alcohol/no-drug policies, etc.
  • Generally speaking, participants must agree to abstain entirely from alcohol intake, tobacco smoking, illegal drugs, prescription medications, and recreational chemicals like cocaine, methamphetamines, heroin, ecstasy, etc. Additionally, residents may not leave the premises without permission unless necessary. And if someone does manage to sneak off outside, they could face the consequences ranging from fines up to 90 days’ worth of rent paid.
  • Each sober living facility will vary depending on location, type, size, accommodations, amenities, etc. For example, some might only allow overnight guests, whereas others welcome day visitors. However, many charge fees based on room occupancy rates, ranging from $100-$250 per week.
  • Most sober living residences require applicants to undergo screening processes before being accepted. These screenings generally involve submitting personal information forms such as medical records, past eviction notices, criminal backgrounds, employment history, current income sources, credit reports, etc. In addition, prospective residents should come prepared with copies of ID cards and other important documents related to themselves and their families.
  • Once admitted, residents must sign contracts stating their agreement to abide by the terms of stay within the program. These agreements usually include paying monthly rental fees, taking by house rules, maintaining cleanliness, wearing approved clothing, following curfew times, participating in daily activities, attending weekly counseling sessions, etc.
  • Finally, upon completing the program, residents will receive certification papers showing proof of successful completion and certificates signed by administrators attesting to their achievements. Upon leaving the program, former residents often become eligible to apply for jobs at various sober living establishments.

Is Sober Living Right for Me?

Sober living is part of a solution wherein participants voluntarily seek abstinence from substances and instead focus on improving their lives and developing healthy lifestyles. According to research studies, roughly 70% of ex-drinkers eventually return to everyday life after completing a sober living experience. Those who refuse to give up alcohol suffer much higher chances of relapse than those who were able to make changes.

While moving into a sober living environment sounds appealing enough, some common concerns arise when considering whether to enroll. First, some worry that sober living won’t work due to a lack of accountability. Others think that cold turkey isn’t realistic because everyone knows you used to drink until 3 AM every weekend. Finally, some feel uncomfortable giving up favorite bars, restaurants, parties, family gatherings, friends’ company, etc.

Though none of these worries hold in reality, some individuals decide to go the sober living route anyway. But why would anyone take such an unnecessary risk? Well, here are some possible reasons:

  • You haven’t found effective treatments yet: Though medication and psychotherapy are proven alternatives to treating alcoholism, many addicts today rely solely on booze for relief. Unfortunately, these drinkers tend to struggle with relapses once returning home. Instead of getting the proper help needed, they try to cope alone by taking risky actions. By putting yourself under the watchful eyes of professionals, you increase your odds of overcoming your addiction.
  • Your family doesn’t understand or support your efforts: When family members constantly ignore your attempts to stop drinking, it becomes difficult for you to continue fighting against cravings. You may consider relocating somewhere else or enlisting the help of trusted peers. While your loved ones may disapprove of your decision, they certainly wouldn’t mind knowing where you are headed.
  • It’s cheaper than continuing outpatient treatment: Compared to expensive hospital stays, detoxes, doctor visits, counselors’ office hours, etc., sober living costs less money and takes less effort. Plus, spending lots of hours commuting every day gets boring quickly, making it hard for you to stick with treatment plans. But, on the contrary, sober living gives you peace of mind knowing that you’ll always have a place nearby.
  • Living close to supportive communities helps keep temptation away: Temptations will creep up on you whenever you visit places frequented by heavy drinkers. Also, since sober living facilities typically operate 24/7, you never have to worry about missing significant opportunities to party. Finally, remember that you shouldn’t treat sober living like a vacation. Your job is to earn staff members’ trust, maintain discipline, and improve your overall health.

After assessing your situation, you’ll probably decide that sober living is right for you. Once enrolled, you’ll enjoy increased freedom while gaining knowledge and skills to handle better problems associated with addiction. 

Scroll to Top