Tips for Choosing the Right Sober House

A sober house is an alternative to moving directly home after you receive treatment in a residential setting. Many find that choosing a sober house as their next step in the transition process allows them time to slowly adjust to life outside of treatment while continuing to receive support and care that is conducive to continued abstinence and recovery. Choosing the right sober house may take a little bit of homework as you will want to consider a number of variables including the location, the rules, and the amenities that are important to you.

Consider Location

Your first course of action in choosing a sober house will be to make a determination as to where it is you want to live. Will you move back to your hometown? Will you choose to start a new life in a new town? Should you choose a sober house that’s close to your school or place of work? These are all considerations that you must make when choosing a place to live.

Consider Cost

You will want to find a sober living home that will be conducive to your recovery.

While the cost of living in a sober house will be significantly lower than living alone or than living in a residential treatment facility, most will still require that you foot some of the bill. When choosing a sober house, consider the costs that are associated with living in the home and whether or not you can feasibly afford the living style that is offered. It’s important that you pay bills, but it’s equally important that you don’t overdo it and set yourself up for failure by taking on more than you can afford.

Consider Amenities

Every sober house offers different amenities. Some will have a pool, gourmet kitchens, and elaborate living quarters. Others may offer fewer amenities or just base housing. If you’re accustomed to an elaborate lifestyle or if privacy is very important, it’s vital that you consider these elements when choosing a sober house. Some will require that you share a room while others may offer you the luxury of your own space.

Consider Rules

According to the National Library of Medicine, most sober homes have similar rules including abstinence from drugs or alcohol, attendance of 12-step meetings, and remaining at the home for most of the week aside from outside activities such as work, education or occasional social meetings. Some homes require that residents be a part of mandatory house meetings, attend spiritual session or respect a very strict curfew. When choosing a sober house, consider the rules and don’t choose a home that you don’t think you can follow the rules at as this will be grounds for eviction.