Frequently Asked Questions about Sober Living Houses
There are many resources available to individuals who are recovering from addiction. For those on their recovery journey looking to experience independence and freedom, while also receiving support and community, sober houses are a great option to consider.
Here are some frequently asked questions about sober living homes that you may be considering when determining if it is the right resource for you or someone you love.
How is a sober house different from residential treatment facilities?
Residential treatment facilities provide intensive support and treatment, whereas a sober house gives those who live there the freedom to come and go as they please. There are certain expectations such as a curfew and periodic drug testing to demonstrate ongoing sobriety. In sober homes, the residents have the responsibility to take care of themselves and work on their goals, which is an important part of recovery.
Where does a sober house fit in the recovery process?
Living in a sober house is a good option for someone who does not feel as though they can live independently and maintain sobriety. This option provides them with peer support, expectations that can help hold them accountable, and a safe environment. They are still able to work and maintain relationships with individuals outside of the home, while also knowing that they can come back to a place with people who are learning how to navigate the same day-to-day challenges.
What makes someone a good fit for a sober house?
It is important to determine if sober living is the appropriate level of care for a specific individual. Do they acknowledge that they have a substance use disorder and if so, what are they actively doing to maintain their recovery? This can look different for everyone, whether it be IOP, SMART Recovery meetings, self-help support groups, individual substance abuse counseling, etc. Whatever the activities, it is important that the individual is personally committed to their sobriety in order for sober living to be a good fit.
What kind of support do residents receive?
Every sober house differs, but in general, residents will receive support from an addiction expert. At Acceptance Recovery House, we provide daily check-ins with a licensed substance abuse counselor to help residents plan out their day and process situations as they occur. On top of daily check-ins, there are weekly groups run by professionals and peer supports. Residents are also asked to have individual substance abuse counseling once a week to better help them maintain their sobriety.
If needed, we are happy to connect them with other support and services, including case management and mental health counseling.
What should someone look for in a sober house?
Location is an important consideration. For example, if the individual does not have transportation, will they need access to public transportation? Some individuals in recovery are able to identify areas that will not be beneficial to their sobriety due to an increased likelihood of them running into previous unhealthy associations. Certain areas can also be triggers if they have a history of misusing substances in public areas.
After assessing where they need to live, they should gather information about the sober house. There are private individuals who title their properties sober homes, however, provide very little oversight, This can result in residents making poor choices, including living there while actively using. In order to determine if the house is a safe environment, it is important to take a tour, ask current residents questions and check out any accreditation (for instance, Acceptance Recovery House is accredited through the Maine Association of Recovery Residences).
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Does sober living sound like a good fit for you or someone you love? If so, Acceptance Recovery House would love to meet you. We are a sober living house for men in Biddeford, ME. Click this link to complete an application, or reach out to us at 207-423-8035 with questions.
