For those in recovery, sober living provides a good intermediate step to independent living. These places are also called transitional housing because of this feature. Designed to minimize triggers and provide structure, these homes are often the best option even for those with a good support system in place. For the unemployed or homeless, they can be essential.
Some important facets of sober living include:
● Residents are free to come and go
● However, rules are in place that provide structure
● There are mandatory meetings as part of ongoing treatment
● The activities of normal life – cooking, shopping, paying bills, and holding a job – are encouraged
Transitional housing options have rules. These are not meant to punish, but to help those in recovery to achieve their goals. One requirement is that residents hold a job. While there is flexibility in the type of work that can be done, it cannot interfere mandatory ongoing treatment.
Sober living homes can help people regain life skills
The goal of sober living homes is to help those in recovery transition to a productive and healthy life. Therefore, they should be able to take care of themselves by the time they leave the facility. They need to learn or regain skills such as cooking, cleaning, paying bills on time, and getting along with others. One key factor is having a job that will cover expenses.
While people in sober living are given emotional support, they must manage their own finances. This means they have to pay their rent on time, buy their own food, and also pay for other expenses such as their cell phone bill. The average cost of housing will depend on location, but in general it is far less expensive than if residents had to live alone, as the cost of rent and utilities will be split among several people. Often people cook meals together or find other creative ways to cut costs. These experiences can lead to feelings of empowerment for those in recovery.
Are there restrictions on the type of work I can do in sober living?
In general, you can choose whatever job you want as long as it will cover your expenses. You will be encouraged, however, to find work that will give you a sense of purpose or fulfillment. This doesn’t necessarily mean you need a high-powered career right away – even an entry level job at your local supermarket serves an essential need for your community. It’s important for those in recovery to remember that all types of work can be meaningful.
Sober living facilities enforce consequences as part of helping residents recover. One rule is that people pay their rent. Not doing so can lead to eviction. Fortunately, however, expenses are designed to be fairly low. This allows those in recovery to prioritize their own mental-health. In many cases, a full-time position may be overwhelming for someone just out of rehab. Because sober living homes are shared between several people, residents can work part-time if necessary while they ease into their new routine of guided independence. As long as the person can pay their rent and is able to attend mandatory therapy sessions and meet other treatment requirements, they are free to work the hours that best suit them.
Will I have help finding work?
Since the goal of sober living is to help people regain control of their lives, as long as residents are making a sincere effort, most places give people up to a month to find a job. There are also programs to assist with essential skills such as:
● Searching for jobs and filling out applications
● Writing or updating resumes
● Practical assistance such as rides or appropriate clothing
● Career counseling and skill training
Even if you’ve lost your previous job due to addiction, or have never held a job, your counselors and other rehab staff can help. By staying in a sober living facility until you are able to be on your own, you will have opportunities to develop valuable skills, save money, and adjust to normal life while you continue treatment.
The most important aspect of sober living is staying sober. For many, this seems impossible. With assistance, however, it’s an achievable goal. To help meet this crucial milestone on the path to an independent and sober life, call 866-963-7200. Our counselors are available to help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
