The short answer as to whether or not couples can go to sober living together is: yes, couples can move into a sober living home together. However, every person is unique, and each individual’s substance abuse and/ or addiction recovery journey is distinct. Addiction, also known in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) as substance use disorder, is a relapsing brain disorder. It is characterized by compulsively engaging in rewarding stimuli (e.g. abusing drugs) without regard for consequence. An individual that struggles with addiction will prioritize satisfying his or her drug cravings above all else. This can wreak havoc in all areas of one’s life. Although the recovery process from substance abuse and/ or addiction is not entirely linear, the process is usually comprised of completing detox, attending a substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment program, and aftercare.
One component of an aftercare plan can include transitioning to a sober living facility. Sober living facilities are group homes that offer transitional residence to individuals who have completed a substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment program. Sober living homes provide its residents with a somewhat structured, substance-free environment that enables its residents to continue practicing and implementing the information learned during a substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment program prior to returning to their home environment. Each sober living facility will offer different amenities, have its own set of house rules and associated consequences when rules are not followed, have distinct expectations for its residents, and will vary in cost.
There are many sober living homes that can accommodate couples. Every aspect of the substance abuse and/ or addiction recovery process is intended to be an opportunity for a person to focus on him or herself and learn to adjust and alter the way they function in society. For example, part of the recovery process requires an individual to learn how to fill up the significant newly freed time that was once used to support a hefty drug habit. This is one reason that moving into a sober living facility as a couple could be beneficial. Together couples can learn to fill up their time with healthy activities. Further, it allows a safe space for couples to learn to shift negative behaviors, done as a couple, into positive pastimes. New research has surmised, that under the proper circumstance, relationships can be a motivating factor in continued recovery. Just like everything in life, there are positives and drawbacks to continuing the recovery process together by moving into a sober living facility as a couple.
For Information and Support
If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one in regards to substance abuse and/ or addiction we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. If left untreated, substance abuse can result in long lasting and potentially life-threatening consequences. Keep in mind: you are not alone! There is an entire network of professionals that are available to help and support you and your loved one throughout the recovery process. The earlier you seek support, the sooner your loved one can return to a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life.
Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions regarding our specific program at Haven House Addiction Treatment and/ or general substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment related information. Our highly trained staff is readily available to discuss how we might best be able to help you and your loved one. We can be reached by phone at 424-318-3777. You are also welcome to contact anytime us via email at admissions@hhtxc.com.
