The Los Angeles Times explains that sober living houses (SLHs), sober homes, and sober living environments are “facilities that provide safe housing and supportive, structured living conditions for people exiting drug rehabilitation programs.” Sober living homes are privately owned and operated group homes for individuals who have recently completed substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment program that wish to move into transitional housing prior to returning home. Sober livings each hold distinct characteristics, are in different geographical areas, offer a variety of wide-ranging amenities, and many specialize in accommodating individuals’ nuanced needs. Sober living homes offer an in-between option that is a step down from traditional substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment programs. Instead of immediately returning home, sober living facilities offer a greater level of support in a drug and alcohol-free community environment. The purpose of a sober living facility is not to shield its residents from reality, but instead to help them take the necessary preparatory steps to fully reintegrate into society and further strengthen a foundation of recovery to enable prolonged and sustained sobriety.
Safe Haven
Sober shelters are different from sober living homes, as individuals that move into sober shelters often do so prior to attending a substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment program. The most widely known type of sober shelter is called a Safe Haven. A Safe Haven “is a 24-hour/ 7-days-a-week community-based early recovery model of supportive housing that serves hard-to-reach, hard-to-engage homeless individuals with severe mental illness and substance use disorders.” Unlike sober livings, the people that live in Safe Havens may not have come from completing a substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment program, and they are not required to participate in treatment during their residence. Rather, the purpose of sober shelters is to transition individuals from unsafe and unstable street-like living conditions to a stable housing environment. Safe Havens allow individuals the opportunity to prioritize their recovery. Removing the obstacles and dangers of homelessness, individuals in Save Havens can begin to re-engage with treatment services.
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 welcome to contact anytime us via email at admissions@hhtxc.com.
