Every person is unique, and everyone’s substance abuse and/ or addiction recovery journey is distinct. Addiction, also as substance use disorder, is listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) as a chronic, relapsing brain disorder. It is characterized by compulsively engaging in rewarding stimuli (e.g., abusing drugs and/ or alcohol) without regard for consequence. An individual that struggles with addiction will prioritize satisfying his or her drug cravings above all else. The development of substance use disorder does not occur immediately, nor will recovering from addiction be achieved instantaneously. 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 could include an individual transitioning into a sober living facility.
Sober Livings
Sober living facilities are group homes that offer transitional residence to individuals that have completed a substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment program. The Journal of Psychoactive Drugs found that the average stay in a sober living facility ranges between 166 to 254 days. Useful tools and healthy coping mechanisms are hopefully absorbed through successfully completing a substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment program. For example, taking the time to identify one’s personal triggers surrounding substance abuse can be helpful in making a conscious decision to avoid them. The triggers and temptations that can present themselves to an individual in recovery can be overwhelming at times. As such, it is important to surround oneself with positive influences and when possible, to avoid negative, triggering situations. Residing in a sober living home inherently removes many of the potential trigger’s individuals may have that could threaten their sobriety and provides additional opportunities to navigate triggers in a semi-controlled environment. When posed with the question: How long should you stay in sober living? It would be impossible to provide a finite answer, as the ideal duration will be unique to each person. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), the length of time an individual spends in substance abuse treatment (including sober living) can directly increase his or her outcome in recovery.
For Information and Support
If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one regarding 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 welcomed to contact anytime us via email at admissions@hhtxc.com.
