Recovering from drug or alcohol addiction can take an exceptional amount of time, energy, and effort. This particular disease is one that infiltrates all areas of one’s life, making recovery more complex. The goal of recovery is not only to stop abusing drugs or alcohol but to also make lifestyle changes that support physical and mental well-being. There are many steps in the recovery process, and those who are reaching the end of their care might still need additional support. This is one of the greatest benefits of sober living, as this treatment option can provide individuals with the support they need all while they prepare to transition back into the real world.
What is Sober Living?
Sober living is a recovery option for individuals who have already completed another level of addiction treatment (such as residential rehab) but who are not fully ready to get back into the flow of their everyday lives. Sober living homes not only offer comfort for these individuals, but also structure and a sense of accountability, all of which helps to strengthen one’s recovery.
Those who participate in sober living will live in a home with other individuals who are also in recovery. Depending on the type of home they are staying in, individuals will have their own spaces to rest, relax, and get some alone time while also having spaces in the home that are shared with other residents. During their stay, residents will have the opportunity to engage in normal activities, such as grocery shopping, meeting up with friends, and so on. They will also be asked to attend meetings and therapy sessions, as well as abide by a detailed set of rules. When living in a sober house, residents are required to be home by a certain time of night and are not allowed to bring any mind-altering substances into the home at all. Should rules such as these be violated, it is possible the resident in question will be asked to leave the program.
Who is Sober Living For?
Sober living is an excellent option for some people in recovery but isn’t the right fit for everyone. This form of extended treatment is most ideal for those who require further assistance in the development of their recovery or those in outpatient programs that do not feel comfortable in their home environments.
It is common to see individuals who have gone through a number of levels of addiction treatment end their professional care with a sober living home. This is often the last step to take prior to going back home and beginning a new, sober life. It is also common to see some individuals enroll in a sober living program after having been sober for a long period of time. This is because one of the greatest benefits of sober living is that it can help bolster one’s recovery when they feel like they are backsliding.
4 Benefits of Sober Living
There are several benefits that attending sober living can offer. From reducing the risk of relapse to getting needed attention in real-time, sober living can help you in many ways.
1. Reduce Relapse Risk
Easily one of the greatest benefits of sober living is that it can greatly reduce the risk of relapse. Studies show that the longer someone is in treatment for a substance use disorder, the more likely they are to avoid relapsing in the future.
2. Establish a Support System
Since you and the other residents of the sober living home will be living together, you will get the opportunity to build a support system with them. This system can be mutually beneficial, allowing for everyone to feel the support they need while also giving support that others need.
3. Get Attention in Real Time
When you run into a bump in the road, you can get attention in real-time. Not only can you gather support from other residents, but you can also get the care you need from addiction specialists connected to the home. This helps to keep you on the right track rather than jeopardizing your recovery.
4. Test Drive Your Sober Life
There are many benefits of sober living, one of which is that you get the chance to test drive your sober life. In sober living, you can see how it feels to have more freedom in your day-to-day life, allowing a quick glimpse into what it might be like when you do transition out of treatment.
Sober Living in Knoxville, TN
At Tennessee Valley Recovery in Knoxville, TN, we understand the many challenges you have faced as a result of your addiction. We know that getting treated for addiction and then fostering your own recovery can be difficult and come with their own set of obstacles. However, we also know that with the right support and guidance, you can continue to live your life free of drug and alcohol abuse.
If you are ready to start or refresh yourself in your recovery, give us a call right now. One of our compassionate, skilled team members will be able to speak with you and gather the information necessary to get you moving in the right direction.
To learn more about our programming, please visit our website. We are here to help.