Did you know the National Institute on Drug Abuse found the percentage of adolescents reporting illegal drug use dropped significantly in 2021? In fact, it was the largest one-year decrease in overall illegal drug use recorded since the survey first ran in 1975!
Luckily, the stigma surrounding addiction recovery is fading as more resources become available! And while the value of inpatient treatment can’t be overstated, some patients don’t know how to readjust to life sober after being discharged.
That’s when professionals will often recommend sober living homes. But what is a sober living home exactly?
We’re here to fill you in. Keep reading below to learn what sober living homes are and why they’re such a beneficial tool for those in recovery.
They Offer A Welcoming Community
For some patients, it’s difficult to find support outside of a treatment center. It’s possible their existing relationships may enable the addiction they’re trying to treat.
So, what is a sober living home offering as far as social benefits go?
Well, a professional dedicated to encouraging recovery hosts a sober living house. It’s also home to other residents who are going through the same process.
This creates a community fostered around growth. It also encourages residents to stay clean for the sake of their housemates.
Sober living homes are also a great supportive environment if you don’t have a long-term living situation arranged. A government-run sober halfway house limits the length residents can stay. However, privately-run sober living homes often don’t restrict stay periods.
They Hold You Accountable
Most sober living homes don’t offer professional treatment in-home. They often do require residents to complete sober living programs though. These typically include attending meetings, workshops, sober-friendly recreational activities, etc.
Sober living homes will also do periodical drug tests to ensure everyone in the home is staying clean. It’s also to make sure nobody’s bringing in anything that would potentially jeopardize the progress of the residents.
They Support Healthy Habit Creation
Have you ever heard doctors tell patients not to do work in bed? It’s because the brain then associates the bed with wakeful activities, rather than as a cue for your body to prepare to sleep.
The same can be said about other environments and routines. We associate our regular environment with pre-established habits. This is why it can be dangerous to move back into your home following treatment.
Patients will have learned recovery skills to prevent relapses while in treatment. A sober living home acts as a place where they can practice these skills without the risk of environmental triggers.
What Is A Sober Living Home: Explained
Unfortunately, many addiction recovery resources go unnoticed by those who need them most. However, more great programs are being promoted each day!
With the info above, you’ll no longer ask, “What is a sober living home?” Rather, you’ll discover whether it’d be a beneficial addition to your recovery plan and might instead ask, “Where can I find sober living homes near me?”
Looking for more? Check out the rest of our website for extra health-related info, along with everything from DIY home improvement hacks to finance tips to the latest entertainment news!
