Sober Living
When an individual has completed a substance abuse and/or addiction treatment program, they may need to enter a sober living home to continue their recovery. A sober living home, also known as residential detoxification homes, are residential facilities that offer supportive, secure living situations and safe housing for those leaving drug rehabilitation programs. A SLH may be the best option for someone considering breaking their addiction, but not ready to enter a regular drug rehab. Most SLHs provide personalized services and have medical resources that allow for in-patient treatment of patients with addiction. The majority of residential detoxification homes have been approved by the local government and may even be required to meet certain standards of community safety.
What is a SLH? A self-contained, stabilized housing setting that offers inpatient treatment and support, but unlike most residential treatment programs, a SLH offers detoxification services only. The term “salt” describes the chemical and biological substances often found in alcohol. Unlike detoxification at the doctors or public clinics, addicts do not need to be intravenously treated in an SLH. In fact, it may be the preferred method of treatment for many who are recovering from an addiction. An inpatient treatment program allows the patient the comfort of being in their own home at a time when they feel safe and are likely to stay sober during the course of the treatment program.
What are the benefits of a residential rehabilitation program? During inpatient treatment, the patient maintains abstinence from alcohol or other substance abuse through daily, weekly, and/or monthly intake of treatment medications. Recovery from substance abuse requires both commitment and the assistance of professionals to ensure successful completion of the program. The support of the medical staff is essential in aiding those who are suffering from withdrawal symptoms. For those who are still struggling with substance abuse, the support of a professional team of professionals in a sober living home can greatly assist in their recovery.
Sober Living – Living on a House Rules System
The benefits of outpatient treatment programs are also available to those who prefer a more hands on approach to addiction treatment. In outpatient settings, addicts can engage in a variety of self-help or support activities. Patients can participate in one-on-one counseling, participate in peer support groups, and attend general therapy sessions. Regular social activities, including group or personal activities, are also possible in many sober living homes. These activities allow the patient to remain self-sufficient and away from the influences of their environment.
Can my loved one benefit from a residential or outpatient program? If you or a loved one suffers from alcoholism, it is always best to seek treatment for the disease, even if the patient is not planning to become sober. Alcoholism affects families and individuals, and the sooner that an addict is treated, the less the likelihood that he will return to drug use in the future. An addiction treatment program in a residential setting is typically shorter than those found in outpatient facilities, which allows the recovering addict to get back to normal day to day activities quickly and without disruption.
Are there house rules in a sober living home? A house rule is simply a reminder of the rules that will be enforced in your household. This ensures that everyone is accountable for their actions and that there is at least one reminder each day that a rule has been violated. Common house rules include: no drugs in rooms or other areas of the house, no loud or excessively personal conversations, no biting nails or keys, no hanging out of windows, no gambling, no constant conversation about what drugs someone is using, no alcohol consumption after 8 p.m., no fighting with other residents, and no fighting among neighbors. While some addicts do keep their drug use in houses with house rules, the majority of addicts find it much easier to maintain sober lifestyles when they are away from the disorder and know that their neighbors are responsible and respected.
