Table of Contents
Abstinence from Drugs and Alcohol
The cornerstone rule in a sober living home is abstinence from drugs and alcohol, usually enforced through random drug testing. The aim is to help residents learn to live differently, as long-term recovery requires comprehensive lifestyle changes.
Having Structure and Routine
Implementing structure and routine means adopting new eating habits, sleeping patterns, and exercise regimes. Residents pray, meditate, start working a 12-step program, and develop new hobbies, interests, and friendships. Everything has to change.
Returning to an old environment with the same rules that led to addiction is counterproductive, hence the necessity of rules in a sober living home. Sobriety remains the most fundamental rule – staying clean and sober is paramount.
Highly structured sober living homes, which offer a better chance for long-term recovery, include additional rules. Residents must rise by eight o’clock, make their beds, complete chores, and keep the home immaculate. Cleaning up after oneself is crucial as every action impacts the entire community.
Maintaining Cleanliness and Responsibility
Addiction fosters selfishness and self-centeredness. Living in a community home teaches residents to live with others and take responsibility for their actions. This includes not watching TV during the day and ensuring personal messes in the kitchen are cleaned. If one person leaves a dish in the sink, it can quickly escalate to a full sink, creating a disaster. Prompt cleaning prevents this.
The Necessity of Working a Program of Recovery
Most sober living homes require residents to work a program of recovery, typically a 12-step program, but it can also be SMART Recovery, Refuge Recovery, or another program. This requirement is essential for learning to live life differently and focusing on self-improvement.
Becoming a Different Person
The only way to transform your life and become a different person is by doing the work. The support and structure provided in a sober living home are crucial for building a foundation for a new way of living. By embracing these changes and committing to the rules, individuals can create a sustainable and fulfilling path to long-term recovery.
If you or someone you care about needs housing for addiction recovery, explore the advantages of sober living homes like Resilient Home Living.
Reach out to us at (316) 749-8029 or email contact@resilienthomeliving.com to learn more about our program and how we can assist in your sobriety journey