Taking the steps toward living a sober life is a monumental step toward recovery. For many individuals, a sober living home can provide the structure and support needed during this critical phase. These sober homes offer a safe, supportive environment that promotes sobriety while helping individuals navigate life after rehab or as they transition from addiction to a healthier lifestyle. Getting into a sober living home can be challenging, as it requires careful planning and understanding of the process. Our team shares 7 tips to help you successfully get yourself into a sober living home and make the most of the experience.
Before you start looking for a sober living home, it's essential to understand exactly what it is and how it can benefit your recovery journey. Sober living homes provide a drug- and alcohol-free environment where individuals can live in a communal setting with others who are also in recovery. These homes are often used as a transitional step for people leaving inpatient rehab programs or those who want additional support before re-entering everyday life.
While sober living homes offer a more flexible structure than inpatient rehab, they are not a free-for-all. Residents are expected to adhere to house rules, attend recovery meetings (such as 12-step groups), and maintain sobriety. Knowing what to expect will help you determine if this is the right step for you and how best to prepare for the transition. Our relapse prevention program helps ensure you have the support you need.
Once you’ve decided that a sober living home is right for you, start researching your options. Many sober living homes are available across the country, each with its own unique set of rules, amenities, and support services. It's important to consider factors such as location, cost, house rules, and the specific recovery programs they offer.
When researching sober living homes, keep the following in mind:
Location: Choose a location that is convenient and comfortable for you. Consider proximity to your family, support networks, or work.
Cost: Most sober living homes charge rent, and this can vary widely. Some homes may offer sliding scale fees based on your income or financial need.
House Rules: Different sober living homes may have different rules. Some may be more structured, while others might allow more freedom. Make sure the rules align with your needs and expectations for recovery.
Recovery Support: Check if the sober living home offers support services like counseling, life skills coaching, or access to 12-step meetings.
While some sober living homes accept self-referrals, others may require a recommendation from a healthcare professional, a counselor, or someone from an inpatient rehab facility. If you're currently in a treatment program or have previously attended one, ask your therapist or rehab counselor for guidance. They often have relationships with sober living homes and can recommend places that are a good fit for your recovery needs.
A referral can significantly increase your chances of being accepted into a sober living home, as many facilities prefer to admit individuals who come with recommendations from professionals who understand their treatment and recovery history.
Once you’ve identified a sober living home you’re interested in, you’ll need to go through the application process. Each home may have different requirements, but generally, you can expect to provide information about your addiction history, your recovery journey, and your reasons for seeking sober living.
Medical History: Be prepared to share any relevant medical or psychiatric history, as some sober living homes may require medical clearance before admission.
Addiction History: Be honest about your substance abuse history. Most homes require applicants to demonstrate that they are committed to maintaining sobriety and are in a stable state of recovery.
Recovery Goals: You may be asked about your recovery goals, the support you need, and how you plan to maintain your sobriety while living in the home.
Having all this information prepared ahead of time can make the application process smoother and increase your chances of being accepted.
Most sober living homes require applicants to have a demonstrated commitment to sobriety. This often means that you have completed a formal treatment program, have attended outpatient therapy, or have been sober for a certain period of time.
While some sober living homes accept individuals at various stages of recovery, many prefer applicants who have already shown that they are dedicated to staying sober. This might mean being in recovery for a few weeks or months, or having a clear understanding of the steps necessary to stay sober in the long term. Be prepared to show that you are actively engaged in your recovery process, whether it’s through attending meetings, counseling sessions, or engaging in other sober activities.
Sober living homes are not places where you can simply “do your own thing.” They are designed to offer structure, accountability, and support to help you maintain sobriety. Be ready to follow the house rules, which typically include curfews, mandatory drug and alcohol tests, participation in house meetings, and maintaining a job or pursuing educational opportunities.
In many cases, sober living homes operate under a system of accountability. You’ll need to demonstrate that you can manage your responsibilities and live according to the house rules. This structure is meant to help you build life skills and a strong foundation for long-term recovery.
Getting into a sober living home is just the beginning. To truly benefit from the experience, you need to be fully committed to your recovery journey. This means following the rules of the home, engaging in your treatment program, attending support group meetings, and building a positive, sober lifestyle.
It’s important to surround yourself with other residents who are supportive and motivated to maintain their sobriety. While the transition from rehab to sober living can be difficult, it is a critical step toward building a life free from addiction. The more effort you put into your recovery, the more successful your experience in a sober living home will be.
By understanding what sober living homes offer, researching your options, getting the necessary referrals, and demonstrating commitment to your sobriety, you can increase your chances of finding the right place for you.
Keep reading our blog for our latest sobriety tips, and don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions or to find the help you need today!