Conversely, having a change of scenery and being safely away from temptation can facilitate faster healing. Residents may remain in a sober living home for as long as they want – if they continue following the house rules. The length of time depends on an individual’s unique journey and how long their treatment and recovery take. While both options provide support for substance use disorders and help individuals achieve long-term sobriety, they differ significantly in structure, cost, and target population.
Sober Living vs Halfway House: Primary Differences
A lack of a controlled alcohol and drug-free environment can be detrimental to sustained abstinence in addicts. An SLH can provide individuals with a secure, empowering environment in which they can get the help they need to maintain their sobriety. A sober living home (SLH) is a residential establishment that provides structure and a sense of community to those healing from substance use disorders. These homes help individuals reduce the risk of relapse during the critical early months of sobriety by offering structure and support.
Halfway Houses vs. Sober Living Homes: What’s the Difference?
Although halfway houses share a lot in common with sober-living homes, there are a few key differences that set them apart. Halfway houses serve as the halfway point between an institution and independent society, with residents usually coming from either correctional or inpatient treatment facilities. Most sober living homes suggest staying for at least 90 days, but staying longer (6-18 months) has been shown to have better long-term results. Quality homes will help you transition by gradually reducing structure, giving you more freedoms like lower rent or fewer check-ins as you become more independent. Sober living costs can vary a lot depending on where you live, the location, and the services offered. Additional cost factors include whether the home is peer-run or professionally staffed, Halfway house programs offered, and the level of support.
A Complete Guide To Sober Living Homes
- They must also contribute to the community by helping with chores, taking responsibility for their actions, and respecting and obeying all house rules.
- The right choice can significantly impact your ability to maintain sobriety, develop essential life skills, and successfully reintegrate into society.
- Some late symptoms of withdrawal or new mental health challenges may occur once the substances are removed, resulting in relapse or other complications if left untreated.
Beyond reducing the risk of relapse, recovery residences offer additional benefits. One study of 330 residents at 49 sober living homes in California found that residents had increased odds of total abstinence and employment. Sometimes people use the terms halfway house and sober living home interchangeably. Both settings provide a space where residents live as a group and slowly transition back into daily life following a period away from home.
Facilities
- The purpose of accountability measures is not only to enforce the rules but also to safeguard the group dynamic and reinforce each resident’s dedication to their recovery.
- Choosing the right environment depends on your specific needs and where you are in your recovery journey.
- With low costs similar to the Level 1 residence, this monitored recovery model is an optimal choice for people seeking to reap the benefits of safe, sober communal living while maintaining a budget.
- Some states reserve halfway houses for people moving from long-term incarceration back into their communities.
- Lastly, many sober living homes offer alum group activities for an additional peer support system.
There is usually some kind of in-house therapy program offered and sometimes required. With low costs similar to the Level 1 residence, this monitored recovery model is an optimal choice for people seeking to reap the benefits of safe, sober communal living while maintaining a budget. Designed for those who need thorough treatment yet can manage some independence, PHP typically runs for 6 to 8 sober house vs rehab hours each day.
While intense and immersive, it provides tools and strategies that can be life-changing. These responsibilities help residents develop practical life skills that are essential for successful independent living while providing structure and accountability. Rehabilitation facilities provide 24/7 medical supervision, particularly crucial during the detoxification phase. Medical professionals monitor withdrawal symptoms, administer medications when necessary, and address any complications that may arise. This level of care is essential for safely managing the physical aspects of early recovery.
