Relapse is a common concern for individuals recovering from substance use disorders. While there are many strategies for maintaining sobriety, it often comes down to the environment that the person is living in. People who reside in a stable, sober home with supportive family tend to have better outcomes than those without. Therefore, deciding where to live after treatment is a big decision that can have a profound impact on your journey.
For some individuals, a sober living home is the right answer. These homes provide a structured, supportive space where individuals can rebuild their lives free from the temptations and triggers that often lead to relapse. Pura Vida Recovery offers several different sober living homes in Santa Rosa, CA, including our women’s sober living home, our men’s sober living home, and our co-ed sober living home.
Let’s learn more about what sober living environments are, what you can expect from them, and how they can be excellent tools for preventing relapse.
What is Sober Living?
Sober living homes, also known as sober houses or recovery residences, are structured, supportive living environments designed for individuals who are recovering from substance use disorders. These homes provide a safe and substance-free space where residents can focus on maintaining their sobriety and rebuilding their lives without excess temptation or distraction.
Some of the key features of sober living are:
- Substance-free environment. Residents are not allowed to use drugs or alcohol, and the use of these substances is typically grounds for eviction.
- Structured living. Sober living provides a structured environment that makes it easier to develop healthy routines and habits. The structure may include house rules, curfews, attendance at group meetings, and assigned chores.
- Accountability. Residents are expected to check in with the house manager and/or participate in regular meetings with other residents. This holds them accountable and prevents relapse.
- Peer support. Peer support is a built-in benefit of sober living. Being with others who are also in recovery offers a sense of community.
- Flexible length of stay. The length of stay in sober living is flexible. Residents can usually stay as long as they need to as long as they are following the rules.
- Gradually reintegrate into society. Sober living allows people to gradually reintegrate into society while continuing to focus on their recovery in a supportive environment.
The Role of Sober Living in Preventing Relapse
People who choose sober living typically move in when they are stable and have completed some treatment. Many still participate in an outpatient program while they reside in the home and rebuild their lives, such as by returning to school or working part-time. Here are the different ways that sober living homes can prevent relapse.
Provides Structure and Support
One of the primary benefits of sober living in Santa Rosa CA is the structure it provides. Structure is essential in early recovery, as it helps individuals establish routines and develop healthy habits. At Pura Vida Recovery, our structured sober living requires weekly drug tests, daily alcohol tests, curfews, and house meetings. This keeps our residents on track and headed in the right direction. Don’t worry—there’s plenty of time for fun, too. Residents get to enjoy various social events, including outings on the boat!
Minimizes Triggers and Temptations
A significant challenge in recovery is avoiding the triggers and temptations that can lead to relapse. While you can’t avoid all triggers, you want to avoid as many as possible. Fortunately, sober living homes offer a safe, substance-free environment where residents are less likely to encounter the people, places, and situations that have contributed to their addiction. By removing these triggers, they’re able to focus entirely on their recovery without distraction.
Encourages Accountability
People with addiction often blame others for their actions and behaviors. However, when you are in recovery, you are expected to hold yourself accountable. It’s the only way you can grow. Sober living homes are designed to foster accountability. Residents are required to check in with the house manager, attend support group meetings, conduct drug/alcohol testing, and more. This level of accountability helps everyone stay focused on their goals.
Develops Life Skills
Recovery is more than just abstaining from drugs or alcohol. It also involves learning how to live a fulfilling, substance-free life. Sober living homes emphasize the development of life skills that are essential for long-term sobriety. You will be encouraged to take responsibility for your daily life, whether it’s managing finances, seeking employment, maintaining hygiene, or communicating effectively with others. Sober living gives you a supportive environment where you can develop these skills and gain confidence without throwing too much at you at once.
Builds a Sober Network
A strong, supportive network is crucial for long-term sobriety. Unfortunately, not everyone has healthy relationships with friends and family back home. The good news is that sober living homes provide an environment where residents can build and maintain relationships with others who are also committed to recovery. These connections can turn into long-lasting friendships and a sense of community that extends beyond sober living.
Sober Living in Santa Rosa, CA
Sober living plays a vital role in helping individuals maintain sobriety and prevent relapse. Pura Vida Recovery has several homes in Santa Rosa that are beautifully maintained and situated in quiet neighborhoods while having access to main roads and amenities. Our sober homes can be a great fit for your recovery, giving you time to slowly reintegrate into society while building skills and friendships, having fun, and preventing return to use. Contact us today to learn more about our men, women, and co-ed sober living homes.
