After completing supervised detox from substance abuse and an inpatient or outpatient addiction treatment program, the next step in your recovery journey could include a transition to either a sober living vs halfway house.
For some people, the thought of returning home and resuming “normal” routines can be too much and still be very overwhelming in the early stages of recovery. In addition, they may not have the support they need at home or could find themselves back in an environment that could increase the risk of relapse. So, moving into a sober living vs halfway house could help you commit to your sobriety further.
What is a Sober Living Home?
When comparing sober living vs halfway houses, it is essential to remember that both types of residential homes require residents to maintain their sobriety. However, beyond that requirement, there are some key differences between the two houses that you need to be aware of to help ensure you decide which home is best for your sobriety and needs.
A sober living home offers a structured environment where residents have established schedules. For example, your day often starts with getting up, making your bed, eating breakfast, and then heading to work, school, counseling, or some other activity. As your day progresses, you have other scheduled events to keep you busy and focused on your recovery. Additionally, sober living homes can be equipped to handle residents who have completed detox but are just starting their outpatient addiction recovery. So, instead of having to first complete a rehab program, you may be able to move into your new home once you have completed detox.
What is a Halfway House?
A halfway house also maintains a sober living environment. However, the structure of a halfway house is much different from a sober living home. Most halfway houses are not equipped to handle incoming residents who have not completed either an outpatient or inpatient addiction treatment program.
Another difference is residents do not have a set schedule to follow. Instead, it is up to them to decide how to spend their day. They are free to come and go as they please. If you need ongoing rehab support, it is up to you to continue your recovery through an outpatient program outside the home. Although, most halfway houses will have nightly group meetings for residents.
Furthermore, residents are tested for drugs or alcohol use daily or whenever returning to the home. If it is discovered they have been using, they are often asked to pack up and leave. This is because halfway houses are generally not equipped to handle relapses and associated withdrawal symptoms.
What are the Benefits of a Sober Living vs Halfway House?
It is important to understand what you need to support your recovery journey. When considering what your needs are, it helps to understand what sober living homes can offer. The benefits of a sober living vs halfway house include:
More Structure
Residents are assisted in creating daily schedules to help them follow a structured plan to benefit their sobriety.
Age-Restricted
Unlike halfway houses where men of all ages can reside, sober living homes often have age restrictions. This is to ensure the guys are of a similar age because they will have more in common and be able to support each other better.
Improved Success Rates
Sober living homes have much higher success rates compared to halfway houses. Part of the reason for this is sober living homes are are designed to support recovery efforts with their emphasis on attending counseling, group meetings, and other options designed to improve outcomes.
Improved Peer Support
Residents often find they receive better peer support in a sober living home because everyone is encouraged to participate in different events and activities, such as movie nights, game nights, etc.
Feels More Like a Home
A sober living home strives to make your stay feel more like you are living at home, not a temporary stopping point on your recovery journey. Many residents make new, life-long friends during their stay as well.
No Time Limit on Residence
Residents are not rushed through or only have a set time before they have to move out. Instead, they are given all the time they need to work on their recovery until they are truly ready to leave the home. Plus, if you ever feel like you need added support, like during the holidays, you can always move back in whenever you want, even if your stay is only for a few weeks.
Helps Prepare You for Independent Living
Another benefit residents enjoy is learning essential skills to help them live independently, such as cooking, cleaning, doing laundry, and budgeting money. Then, when residents graduate from a sober living home, they are ready to live independently.
Redondo Beach, CA Sober Living Homes for Young Men
As you can see, sober living homes offer numerous benefits over halfway houses as you continue your recovery. If you are looking for structured sober living for young men in an age-restricted home, you will find a wide range of housing options available through New Life House in Redondo Beach, CA.
We have several residential homes for young men to choose from based on their age. To learn more about our sober living homes and recovery programs, please feel free to contact us, email us at [email protected], or call us at (888) 357-7577 today!
Last Updated on May 24, 2022
