5 Myths About Sober Living Homes

Even as you finish detox or rehab, you may not be ready to go back to your home environment. In many cases, returning home means returning to the familiar places, people and situations that contributed to your substance use in the first place. Or, you may have concerns about maintaining your sobriety so soon after gaining it. Whatever your situation, moving into a sober living house could be your solution.

Sober living homes can be the difference between staying in recovery and relapsing. Some people have misconceptions about the rules, services and even cleanliness in sober living houses, and we're here to debunk some of the most common myths.

1. All Sober Homes are the Same

Everyone who deals with addiction is different, so there must be various solutions to help them recover. Sober living comes in all formats, sizes and housing types. You can find private condos, dormitory-style living and everything in-between. These homes have different programs, amenities and participation levels. If you're exploring your options for sober living homes, take your time and research which places will fit your needs best.

2. Sober Living Homes Are in Bad Areas and Poorly Maintained

While some sober living situations are dirty or in unfavorable neighborhoods, the vast majority stand by their commitment to providing safe and comfortable housing for continuing your recovery journey. Diamond House Detox's living spaces are in lovely areas of Sacramento, CA.

3. You Can't See Family, Friends or Pets in Sober Living Houses

There is a perception that sober living spaces are like inpatient treatment in that you can only see family, friends and outside visitors during predetermined times. This is not the case. You have lots of freedom in these living arrangements to go out and meet with people from your life or invite them to see where you're staying. Some facilities even allow you to bring your pets along so you can get through your time with your favorite companion.

4. You Can Find Drugs or Alcohol at a Sober Facility

Regulations can vary from place to place, but one rule is paramount in all locations — no alcohol or drugs are allowed on the premises. The purpose of sober living is to prevent relapse, and many places enforce this through random drug testing. If you're not committed to your recovery, you may be asked to leave immediately.

5. It's Too Hard or Takes Too Long to Get in a Sober Living House

Highly coveted sober living facilities can have long waitlists and extensive applications for new clients, but new programs are constantly opening, and most sober living homes have open availability or will shortly. Start doing your research and making some calls, and you'll likely discover dozens of options in your area.

Get the Facts About Living Sober

If you are ready to take control of your life and start your sober journey, reach out to Diamond House Detox today. We're here to help you or your loved one navigate sobriety so you can get back to life you enjoy. Verify your insurance today.

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Diamond House Detox
Vicky is a board certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She began her nursing career in healthcare by working in the intensive care unit, and then an inpatient psychiatric hospital. After realizing the mental health needs of both the patients and the families she served, she became a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Throughout her experience working with clients, she has developed a passion for those with dual diagnoses and specializes in helping individuals recognize the issues driving their substance use. This recognition has been crucial to the individual’s success in treatment. Vicky opened Diamond House Detox so that she can address these issues early on in a therapeutic environment to allow clients to transition to the next level in their recovery.
Vicky Magobet
Latest posts by Vicky Magobet (see all)