Sober Living vs. Rehab: What is the Difference?

For people in recovery, finding the right type of support is a critical part of remaining sober. This looks different for everyone, which is why it is so important to understand the differences between sober living (a recovery residence) and rehab (a treatment facility) in order to choose the one that is right for you.

What is a rehab center?

A rehabilitation center is an in-patient medical facility that supports individuals who struggle with alcoholism and substance use in their journey of recovery. Individuals who are patients of a rehab center remain a resident of the center and are often required to remain on site throughout the duration of their stay. They offer additional support, including on site medical staff, to provide added care and assistance to their patients. Rehabilitation centers are often equipped to support individuals through or shortly after their detoxification (detox) phase.

The purpose of rehab centers is to provide their patients with as much support as possible on their journey to recovery. The long term goal is to equip those individuals with the skills they need in order to maintain long term sobriety.

Rehab centers often offer programs and supports including but not limited to detoxification programs, group therapy, on site nurses and medical staff, on site therapists, on site peer supports, medical equipment and medication to support individuals through withdrawal.

What is a sober living or recovery residence?

A sober living home or recovery residence is a home in which individuals who struggle with substance use and alcoholism reside together and support each other through their recovery journey with limited additional support.

The purpose of a sober living home or a recovery residence is to support individuals in their recovery journey with help from their peers and off site medical supports in order to provide the individual with the tools they need to sustain their sobriety long term. Sober living provides the opportunity for the residents to be independent and gain knowledge and skills at their own pace.

Sober living homes and recovery residences often offer in-house group therapy, individual therapy, connection to case management, support gaining access to off site medical care, support gaining healthy coping skills and support accessing community resources, among other things. Sober living homes also have a house manager on site throughout the day/week to provide peer support and additional guidance as needed.

How do you know which is right for you?

In order to know which option is right for you, you will need to determine the level of support and care you need at this stage of your recovery. For example, if you are in need of continual one-on-one support from medical professionals, a rehab center would be a better suited option. However, if you are in need of after care from a rehab center, have the ability to be independent, and/or are in search of an option that allows you to continue to work or go to school while also having additional support to help maintain your sobriety, a recovery residence may be better suited for you.

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Overall, the decision between a rehab center and a sober living environment is yours to make. Both options have the goal of supporting you in your recovery goals and allowing you the opportunity to gain the tools necessary to sustain your sobriety long term.

Does a recovery residence sound like it may be right for you? Apply to Acceptance Recovery House today.