Sober living, halfway homes and transitional living — at first glance, these terms seem like they could be synonyms of one another. But these places can have significantly different rules, guidelines and affiliations. If you're considering your options before or after rehab, it can help to understand what each of these housing types means and which one makes the most sense for you.
Transitional living is the blanket term for any type of living quarters that help you get back on your feet after some time away from regular society. Essentially, it's the in-between of living in an inpatient facility and living independently. It can be apartments and condos or dorms where you share rooms with other people.
Whatever your options, transitional living gives you some freedom with the added benefit of support staff on hand as you learn to maintain your sobriety in the real world. Plus, you'll be near others going through treatment and recovering from addiction, so you can share coping strategies and build a strong support system of people like you.
Sober recovery homes started as religion-centered hotels that required abstinence, but today, many of them have little to do with religion. Now, they're mostly privately owned housing where people can go during or following their time in rehab treatment. They vary widely in size, amenities and program offerings, so finding a sober living house that fits your needs can take some time and research.
Depending on the program, residents in sober living spaces may be required to attend 12-step sessions, certain therapies and other events. Still, you'll have much more freedom in sober living than in inpatient treatment. You may even be able to get a job and start reintegrating back into your life.
Halfway homes are typically government-funded housing, and as such, there can be stringent rules for those living in them. The original purpose of halfway housing was to allow people in prison to stay in a space that helped them reintegrate into regular society. Today, they've evolved to include those leaving rehab. Many people in halfway homes are required to live there for some time following their release from jail or rehab and are subject to random drug and alcohol testing.
Compared to sober living houses, halfway homes are generally cheaper since they're government-sponsored. They also can be less private and more like a dormitory than a private residence. However, this factor doesn't have to be a negative. Halfway houses allow you to get close to other people in a similar situation and have support as you transition into daily life together.
Diamond House Detox is committed to evidence-based treatment that helps people going through addiction find their way to sobriety. If you are struggling with addiction and not sure where to turn, reach out to us to get your sobriety journey under way. Verify your insurance with our supportive team today.
