Sober living is usually a good option for people who complete treatment but need some ongoing support and accountability for their early recovery. There are usually many options for sober living. These are the most important things to look for.
Do Some Research Online
Sober livings can come under a lot of scrutiny at local level. This is both a good thing and a bad thing. Unfortunately, many neighborhood residents will go out of their way to file complaints and try to get sober livings removed from their area. Reading through complaints could paint a false picture. However, if there are consistent complaints about the same thing- especially routine appearances by police and/or ambulance- you might not be heading into a safe place. Read reviews online and when you schedule a tour, ask some questions. You are interviewing them more than they are interviewing you!
Try To Schedule A Tour
You have to know that you are going to feel comfortable, safe, and accepted in a sober living in order for you to find success there. Scheduling a tour to see the home and meet some of the residents is important. You’ll know you’re heading into a good place just by finding out if tours are available. If a house manager doesn’t allow you to visit, it usually means the house is not worth visiting- they just want you to get in and start taking your money. If you get a tour here are some things to notice:
- The sleeping arrangements: make sure there’s not bunk beds crammed in every room
- Cleanliness: do they have regular chores? Is the house clean?
- Certifications: check to see they have their licenses displayed
- Bathrooms: are there 10 people to a bathroom? Are the bathrooms clean?
- People: is the house empty during the day or is it full of people hanging around?
Ask About Requirements
Some sober livings are just meant to be homes which hold people accountable with curfews, chores, and regular drug screening. Others have more structure and support, encouraging residents to attend a certain amount of meetings per week or continue treatment at an IOP, Outpatient, or Aftercare level. If you are in need of ongoing support, it is best to look for a sober living who can give it to you. If you are ready to transition back into school or the work force, leaving you with little time for treatment and structural requirements, a traditional sober living might be the better choice.