Sober Living What is it like living in a Sober House?

Read on to learn about what a sober living house is, the history of sober living homes, types, who should go to one, and how you can find a sober living house. Although halfway houses share a lot in common with sober-living homes, there are a few key differences that set them apart. Halfway houses serve as the halfway point between an institution and independent society, with residents usually coming from either correctional or inpatient treatment facilities.

When leaving treatment, clients can be easily overwhelmed by the amount of freedom and autonomy they are suddenly given, which can make them incredibly susceptible to relapse. In the real world, the burden of too many responsibilities and tough decisions can make it easy to fall back into old habits. In sober living, residents are given rules to abide by that provide them with freedom and flexibility but also offer structure, ensuring they can transition back to independent living with relative ease.

Massachusetts Legal Decisions on Sober Living

Today, sober houses are “free-standing,” independently owned and operated. They’re not licensed by an official body, nor do they provide licensed professional services onsite. Alcoholics Anonymous originated in the 1930s and provided the steppingstones for sober housing by requiring strict sobriety, participation in the community, peer support, and a 12-step program. However, AA did little to address housing needs for its participants as they worked through the program. Are you an existing operator with questions on how to navigate this tricky legal landscape?

Local governments often try to restrict the establishment or operation of sober houses through zoning and housing codes, but federal law limits their ability to do so. People in recovery from substance abuse disorders are considered disabled under the Americans with Disabilities Act and the federal Fair Housing Act, particularly its 1988 amendments. The latter law specifically prohibits discrimination in the sale or rental of housing, or to otherwise make unavailable or deny a dwelling to any buyer or renter because of a handicap.

What is a Rehab, Sober House & Wellness Centre?

Choose a house manager of the appropriate gender who will help you run the sober living house. Generally, a house manager is responsible for observing and monitoring residents of the sober living home and facilitating house meetings and group activities. He or she will also live on-site at the facility with the residents. A man or woman in recovery with at least six months to one year of continuous sobriety may be an excellent choice for this position. As you determine what his or her salary will be, you may want to consider including free or reduced-price lodging and meals, as this is a common practice. Sober houses do not provide treatment, just a place where people in similar circumstances can support one another in sobriety.

Remember there is a lot that goes into sober living and finding the right option for your loved one. We do not recommend that you hastily react when choosing an option. You can also always go take a tour of the home and get a feeling for yourself. Make sure you fully understand the cost of services provided, amount of support and what the day-to-day schedule is. When residents do their research to choose a sober living home, six main factors will influence their decision to either enroll in a program or not.

Massachusetts Zoning and Sober Living

While they are both residences sober house to support folks in maintaining sobriety and transitioning back into society, there are some key differences. While completing a substance abuse rehab program before moving in may not be required, it can help individuals to stay sober. However, if residents are willing to remain sober, follow all house rules, and guarantee medical stability, they should feel free to apply. In the ’40s and ’50s, California began to dismantle its custodial care systems (e.g., local jails and state psychiatric hospitals), creating an even greater need for sober living houses.