Not all sober living homes are alike. Because there can be such a variety, it’s important to know what your needs are when it comes to recovery and what a sober living home can offer you. This article will provide tips to help guide your search for a sober living home that’s right for you.
What to Look for in Sober Living Homes
There are several qualities and aspects to look for in a facility to help you make the transition back to everyday life. When looking for a location that best suits you, consider the following:
- Location: For some people, confidentiality is important during recovery. And if that’s the case, then perhaps you need a sober living home that’s in another area or even in another state. On the other hand, you might not want to be too far from your wife and children. And if that’s the case, then a local sober living home might be the answer.
- Lifestyle: Depending upon the lifestyle you’re used to, you might want a home that is more or less luxurious. Perhaps one that has all the bells and whistles. Or you might prefer something simple, clean, and healthy. You may want a home that matches your current lifestyle or one that simply provides a sober environment.
- Finances: For some recovering men and women, finances may play a big role in the sober living home you choose. Keep in mind that some health insurance companies may cover sober living residences for some time. However, double-check that the sober living home you’re looking at accepts insurance.
These are all practice considerations. They affect how you’ll be able to get around, work, and socialize. So after you’ve thought about your own needs, the next step is to consider what each sober living home has to offer.
What Makes the Home a Good Fit For You?
Once you’ve considered the practical aspect of sober living homes, you should turn your attention to how each feels. Is it a place you think you can find your sober self? For instance, you may want to reflect on the following:
- Reputation: All sober living homes must adhere to certain standards and regulations. However, some homes may follow those regulations more closely than others. And this can lead to a positive reputation in the community. If you’re looking for sober living home with a good reputation, you might ask around at local Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) meetings in your community. Or you can ask for the opinion of a mental health provider in your neighborhood.
- Access to AA Meetings: Also, you may want to choose a home that is reasonably near AA meetings you will be attending for easy access to those meetings. Most sober living homes accommodate residents for six months to a year to support continuous sobriety.
- Residents and Their Length of Sobriety: It can be supportive finding other residents who already have at least six months of sobriety. If you’re going to be living with others, it would be useful to you if those people are further along in their recovery.
- Services Offered: At times, but not always, these kinds of aftercare locations provide more than just a sober place to live. For instance, they may have meetings right at the house. They might also have meditation groups, yoga classes, and a garden to walk through. These services can help lift your emotional and spiritual well being.
Westwind Recovery®
Once you’ve looked over and considered this list of what to consider when searching for the right home, reach out to Westwind Recovery®. We can answer your questions and address your concerns. We have extensive experience in supporting individuals in recovery from drug and alcohol abuse. So contact us today at 855.340.8832 and learn what we have to offer.
Dr. Deena is the Chief Clinical Officer of Westwind Recovery®, an award-winning outpatient treatment center in Los Angeles where she oversees the clinical and administrative program and treatment methods. Dr. Deena is a doctor of psychology and licensed clinical social worker since 1993. LCSW #20628. Originally from the East Coast, Dr. Deena has worked running treatment centers, worked as a therapist in psychiatric hospitals as well as school settings and currently has a thriving private practice in the LA area. Dr. Deena has appeared regularly on the Dr. Phil Show as an expert since 2003. She has also been featured on many other TV shows, podcasts and has contributed to written publications as well as podcasts.
