There are 22.3 million Americans who have overcome an alcohol or drug addiction. Fortunately, there are plenty of options to help those who are on the road to recovery. This includes sober living homes, which can provide structure and support for those who have recently been out of a rehab center or have endured a relapse.

If you are looking for a sober living near me, there are several things to consider so that you can find the right fit for you. Continue reading to learn more about how you can find your best option and continue on the path of sobriety!

1. Online Searches

Locating sober living near me has been made much easier with the help of the internet. While you can get lost in the many pages of Google searches, some more specific search tools can help you find treatment homes near you. Taste Recovery’s app can guide you in the right direction.

Once you have identified some potential sober living arrangements, you can go from there. Have a look at the reviews for each place. This can give you a better idea of how others have felt about the experience.

2. Research Potential Homes

There are several things to understand about sober living homes. Each one may operate on different routines, rules, and philosophies. Here are a few things to understand before moving forward with a sober treatment center option:

  • Accreditation and/or licensing
  • Rules for residency
  • Support services (employment opportunities, educational planning, volunteer placement, recovery programs, etc)
  • No-tolerance policy for alcohol and drugs
  • Location
  • Living spaces
  • Drug testing
  • Visitor policy
  • Social activities
  • Rules on romantic relationships
  • Length of stay requirements

These are just a few of the things to consider when looking into your options. Be sure that these policies and practices line up with your recovery and will provide the best support for your journey.

3. Visit the Sober Treatment Center

After you have narrowed down your search, you should try to make an in-person visit to the sober treatment homes that you can. This is the best way to judge if the place is the best fit for you.

While you are there, take note of how comfortable you feel. Pay close attention to the other residents and their behaviors. Do they seem positive and comfortable as well?

Bring a sober friend, family member, or sponsor along with you if possible. This can provide a second opinion and allow you to consider their observations too. Ask yourself if you could see yourself living in this place for the short and/or long term.

If you aren’t able to visit the home in person, take a look at the photos/videos that they have online. This is when the reviews and testimonials of past residents can come in handy.

4. Learn About the Staff

Those who manage a sober living home can have a great influence on the success of the residents. Before you choose a transitional living program, you’ll want to know everything you can about the staff.

This is another important factor to consider when you make your in-person visit to the home. Be sure to observe how these staff members interact with the current residents.

You should find out more about the training, education, and background of staff as well. Finding a home that is backed by the National Alliance for Recovery Residences (NARR) shows that they are dedicated to a high standard of care.

Other questions to consider about staff include:

  • Do they live on-site?
  • Are they also in recovery?
  • How are residents held accountable?
  • What is the staff-to-client ratio?
  • Do they have a positive attitude?
  • Are they willing to answer questions?
  • Do they seem to care about the residents?

5. Financial Requirements

Each sober living treatment facility may have different financial requirements. Oftentimes, they will charge a monthly rate for room and board. You will most likely be responsible for your own food, hygiene, and transportation.

In some instances, your health insurance may cover some of the costs. You can consult with the admissions staff to get a better understanding of the use of health insurance benefits.

Additionally, the admissions staff can help you find other financial aid such as scholarships and financial assistance programs. It’s always best practice to ask as many questions as you can think of.

6. Pay Attention to Red Flags

There are many red flags that you should keep in mind when doing your search. While you may know what to look for, you should also consider what NOT to look for in a sober living home near me. The following are warning signs to be aware of:

  • No admission requirements
  • No drug testing
  • Lack of rules for residents
  • Unqualified or rude staff
  • Rundown or dirty

Having a safe, high-quality sober living home is important to your recovery. If the home shows any of the signs above, you might want to consider your other options. Remember that you are investing in your future with this decision.

Find the Best Sober Living Near Me

Sober living homes provide supportive and structured environments to help in the recovery process. These transitional environments can be vital to the success of those in recovery. If you are looking for sober living near me, it’s best to keep these factors in mind when making your decision.

Are you stumped or just starting in your search for the right sober living home? Contact us to start finding sober living homes in your area.