Reader Question: Pros and Cons of Sober Living

From Our Readers: I’m considering going to a sober living house after I finish my inpatient treatment program. What are the pros and cons of this type of living arrangement?

It’s great that you’re thinking about the next step in your recovery journey, and you’ll be happy to know that sober living is a solid choice. It offers many benefits for people who need help returning to their normal lives.

However, a sober living arrangement can have some downsides. Here are some things to remember to see if sober living is right for you.

Sober Living Pros and Cons

Sober living provides a safe, secure, and substance-free environment. You’ll be surrounded by other people committed to recovery, which can give you a sense of community and belonging.

They provide various activities to help you develop practical life skills and coping techniques to manage cravings. They also create a routine to add structure and consistency to your life.

Overall, sober living is an excellent stepping stone to regaining independence and self-sufficiency after treatment. But it can have some cons, which include:

• Less privacy: You’ll share living spaces like bedrooms, bathrooms, and common areas.
• Rules and regulations: Sober living homes have strict regulations and expectations that can feel restrictive for some people.
• Financial commitments: Rent and other expenses can be a deal breaker for some people, so it’s important to fully understand the costs involved.
• Quality: The quality of sober living homes can vary. Researching facilities and reading reviews can help you find a good place for your needs.

Sponsored

Online Therapy Can Help

Over 3 million people use BetterHelp. Their services are:

• Professional and effective
• Affordable and convenient
• Personalized and discreet
• Easy to start

Find a Therapist

Answer a few questions to get started

How Do You Know if a Sober Living House is the Right Choice for You?

• Your recovery needs: If you need more structure, support, and accountability, a sober living home might be a good choice. But if you feel prepared to live independently or prefer it, consider other options.
• Financial situation: Sober living is great if you can manage the costs; otherwise, consider more affordable options.
• Personal preferences: Sober living might be counterintuitive if you don’t feel comfortable in a communal living situation.
• Overall compatibility: Ask yourself if the home’s philosophy, location, amenities, and reputation are a good fit for your recovery journey.

Sponsored

Get Professional Help

BetterHelp can connect you to an addiction and mental health counselor.

Find a Therapist

Answer a few questions to get started

Finding the Right Home

Choosing the right sober living house is crucial. Here are some tips to help you in your search:

• Recommendations: Ask your treatment professionals for recommendations for reputable sober living homes in your area.
• Research and visit: Do your research, visit the facility, and even talk to the staff to get an idea of what living there might be like.
• Accreditation: Look for houses that are accredited or certified. It’s often a sign of good quality.

It’s important to understand that sober living homes aren’t a replacement for addiction treatment and therapy. It’s a transitional stage for people who’ve already received professional help.

It’s also better when combined with other treatment options and support programs. Many sober living homes encourage outpatient treatment, 12-step meetings, etc.

Additional Resources

Sober living might not be the answer for everyone, but it can be a valuable option for people in recovery. It provides structure, support, and skill-building, which can be helpful for long-term sobriety.

But if you need additional help, don’t be afraid to ask:

• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): 1-800-662-HELP (4357): Provides referrals to local treatment options, support groups, and other resources
• National Alliance for Recovery Residences (NARR): A great source for information on quality sober living houses

Sponsored

Get matched with an affordable mental health counselor

Find a Therapist

Answer a few questions to get started