After completing addiction treatment, it can be difficult to transition back into daily life with its responsibilities and potential triggers. A Sober Living Program offers individuals the support they need while providing them with the freedom to work, attend school, and spend time with friends and family. It also helps people practice self-care and healthy regimes while re-establishing a sense of independence and accountability.
In a sober living program, you will live alongside others in recovery who are going through the same struggles as you. These are typically people who have been through recovery themselves and understand how it feels to be triggered by cravings or urges to use drugs or alcohol. They are your support network and will help you through the challenging times when you feel like using again is your only option. These relationships will grow and develop over time into a strong sober community of supportive friends.
During drug abuse, many people lose touch with their family and friends. Sober living programs help individuals reconnect with their loved ones and build new meaningful connections in recovery. This will improve an individual’s emotional health and well-being while reducing the risk of addiction-related mental illness.
Recovering from addiction is a long journey. It requires a lot of strength and courage to stay sober, especially during the first ninety days after treatment. The most common relapses occur within this period, but a sober living program can give you the structure and support you need to successfully navigate early recovery. A sober living program will also teach you basic life skills such as cooking, cleaning, and managing finances, and encourage you to find part-time employment or attend classes to further your education. This will help you establish a routine and take your mind off substance use, which can be a trigger for relapse.
Addiction is known as a “disease of isolation,” which can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression. Sober living communities offer an environment where you can rebuild your personal relationships and connect with a supportive community that will be there for you throughout the recovery process. You will be surrounded by people who are committed to the same goal of long-term sobriety, and they will become your family in recovery.
While in a sober living home, you will be expected to maintain full responsibility for your behavior and actions while there. There are usually rules and regulations regarding food, clothing, and hygiene that you must follow. Additionally, most sober homes will require you to participate in therapy or other recovery-based activities on a regular basis. This helps to reinforce the lessons learned during treatment and support you in your journey to a lifetime of sobriety. This is essential to your overall success and provides a foundation for lifelong recovery. Many sober homes have support teams of therapists and counselors that will be available for you to contact if you need assistance. These supports will remain in place for as long as you need them.
