Addiction is a chronic, relapsing disease. This means that people who have struggled with addiction in the past will have to make lifelong efforts to live a sober life. Triggers can be anywhere – people, places, and the things that once fueled their addiction.
This is where sober living comes in. Sober living offers a structured environment where people can find support and focus on rebuilding a substance-free life after rehab. In this article, let’s look at the benefits of both sober living and sobriety.
The Benefits of Sober Living
Sober living aims to help individuals transition back to everyday life and maintain sobriety after addiction treatment. Here are some of the benefits of living in a sober living home.
Escape from Triggers
When a person lives in a sober living home, they can escape the triggers present in normal day-to-day life. The structured environment removes any toxic relationships, stressful situations, and access to harmful substances. As such, it becomes a place wherein residents can focus on themselves a build healthier routines.
Safe Environment
Sober living homes usually have strict rules regarding curfews and drug testing. This is to ensure the well-being of everyone in the home and keep residents free from harmful substances. The environment also provides a judgment-free community where people are working towards a common goal. Those who actively participate in the community and support system within the sober living home are more likely to succeed in their recovery journey.
Helps Reduce Risk for Relapse
Aside from the absence of drugs and alcohol, the house rules in a sober living home promote accountability. Residents should participate in activities and therapies that will help them build healthy habits. The supportive environment and presence of positive influence can help reduce the temptation to relapse in those recovering from addiction.
Fosters Independence
In a sober living home, residents are encouraged to do their part when it comes to chores and other duties. This helps instil a sense of responsibility and independence they need for when they go back to their day-to-day life. Sober living homes also support residents in looking for a job so that they can attain financial independence once they leave the place.
Transition Back Into Society
The gradual reintegration into society helps clients not to feel overwhelmed during recovery. Sober living homes also offer an excellent support network that people can rely upon after leaving the home. Whether the support is through connections made while living in the home or continued therapy with the counsellors, it provides a smoother transition back into society.
Benefits of Sobriety
Once a person decides to get sober, they can expect to experience numerous physical, mental, and emotional benefits.
Improved Physical Health
Abusing substances can increase the risk of disease and other conditions. People who get sober will have better organ function and a stronger immune system, which both contribute to improved physical health. Getting sober also improves sleep quality and energy levels for a healthier lifestyle.
Better Mental Health
Heavy drinking or drug use can lead to increased tension and feelings of panic. In addition, hangovers can cause anxiety since people may not recall what they’ve done while they were impaired. When a person gets sober, they can feel less anxious and depressed. They will also be able to cope with emotions more effectively.
Better Memory
Substances like drugs and alcohol reduce cognitive function, which affects memory. People struggling with substance abuse may find it difficult to recall information or learn new things. Sobriety helps improve memory retention as well as other cognitive functions, such as attention, focus, and problem-solving skills.
Improved Relationships
Substance abuse can cause communication and trust issues among loved ones. The erratic behaviour may push loved ones away and damage relationships. With sobriety, people can mend broken relationships with their loved ones. Therapies like family therapy also create a safe space where family members can talk to each other and resolve their problems.
Financial Stability
One sign of addiction is a person’s inability to stop using substances, even if it’s causing financial problems. So when people achieve sobriety, they stop using their money to fund their substance abuse. Instead, people who get sober can achieve better financial stability.
Improvement in Appearance
A person who gets sober can lead to an overall healthier look. Addiction can significantly impact a person’s appearance – it can dehydrate the skin, dry out the hair, and make a person look tired all the time. By cutting out harmful substances, people can achieve a more vibrant appearance, which can make them feel happier and more confident.
Longer Life
With the numerous health benefits that come with getting sober, sobriety can help people live a longer life. Organs are functioning well, and the risk of developing serious health conditions is significantly reduced.
Increased Sense of Accomplishment
People who overcome addiction can feel a sense of accomplishment. Overcoming addiction is never easy. However, a person who successfully navigates the complexities of addiction recovery shows that they’re strong enough to go through hardships. What once seemed impossible now provides a renewed sense of purpose that makes people look forward to a brighter future.
Greater Fulfillment in Life
Lastly, a person who achieves sobriety can feel more fulfilled with their life since they can now pursue their dreams. Addiction can make a person feel like they can’t fully live their life to its potential. Sobriety allows people to be more productive and accomplish various goals, no matter how small.
Find Recovery from Addiction and Substance Abuse
Achieving sobriety can be a difficult journey, but it has numerous benefits. At Orchid, we offer comprehensive and professional treatment for people struggling with substance use disorder. Our staff has several years of experience helping people achieve a sober life. Contact us today to learn more about our services.
FAQs
Here are some of the questions people have about the benefits of sober living.
What Is a Sober Living Home?
A sober living home is where people live after addiction treatment if they feel like they aren’t fully ready for normal life yet. It’s a home free of substance and has strict rules that help residents maintain sobriety. Residents can also receive therapies and attend support groups while living in a sober living home. Other names for sober living homes include halfway houses or recovery residences.
How Long Is a Sober Living Program?
Sober living programs usually last around 90 days, but the duration is flexible. People can shorten or extend their stay, depending on their readiness and progress. Addiction specialists can also assess a resident’s progress to see whether they are ready to leave the home.
What Is the Difference Between Sober Living and Rehab?
Sober living is a home that provides a supportive, substance-free environment for people who have completed rehab. On the other hand, rehab is a structured treatment where people can address the underlying causes of their addiction.
