Popular Myths About Sober Houses

According to the National Library of Medicine, sober houses have a high success rate in helping people recover. Unfortunately, some people do not take advantage of sober residents because they believe some of the myths surrounding them. Since people do not usually discuss their time in sober housing, these myths are perpetuated.

Myth: Sober Houses are for Criminals

Fact: There are many types of sober housing. Some sober houses often referred to as halfway houses; do in fact house criminals while they transition back into normal society. Other sober houses help people who are victims of abuse and still others help people who are in recovery from addiction.

Myth: Sober Houses are in Bad Neighborhoods

Fact: Sober houses are in all sorts of neighborhoods. They range from high end large houses to apartment building and communities. Sober living facilities are not just in the bad sections of cities, some are in rural areas and others are in the suburbs. There are no rules as to where a sober house or sober community is located.

Myth: Sober Houses are Dark Dingy Places that are Crime Ridden

Most sober living residences require that you pay rent, at least as soon as you obtain employment.

Fact: Most sober houses are kept clean and neat by their residents. Many sober houses are tastefully decorated, meticulously cleaned, and well cared for. The residents take pride in their residence. There are also very strict rules about crime in most sober houses.

Myth: You can go Out and Use Drugs or Alcohol while in a Sober House

Fact: Most sober houses use random drug testing in order to prevent this very thing. Many of the sober houses available have very strict rules about using drugs or alcohol while living there. People who test positive for drugs or alcohol are rapidly ejected from the sober house and sometimes put back into rehab or jailed.

Myth: Sober Houses Let Residents Live Rent Free

Fact: Most sober houses allow time for a resident to get a job and then they pay for their lodging.

Myth: There is Only One Type of Sober House

Fact: There are many types of sober houses including:

• transitional houses
• sober communities
• private sober residences
• sober apartment complexes

There are also varying degrees of sober housing. Each of them suits a different population.

9 Things you Might Not Realize about Sober Housing

Myth: Sober Houses are Just Waiting Areas

Fact: Sober houses are a place for you to get your life back together. They are not just a place to live but also a place to learn and accomplish your goals. Most of the people who use sober houses want to find their place in life and how to live sober, before they are on their own. Most people who live in sober houses take classes, find jobs, or learn life skills while they are there.

Myth: There are Very Few Sober Houses and Long Wait Times to Get in Them

Fact: You can find a sober house simply by calling 800-953-3913 (Who Answers?). There are many sober houses across the country and we can help you find the one that is right for you.