Key Takeaways
- Community is one of the most important things to look for in a sober program.
- Sober homes can differ in the support they offer, so ask what is actually included.
- Living with other sober people can provide everyday encouragement, ideas, and connection.
- Building a sober social network can make activities, dating, and other parts of daily life feel more comfortable over time.
This blog post about sober programs and what to look for was sent in by a sober guest blogger that wished to remain anonymous.
Sober Programs
Sober houses in Massachusetts and sober programs have become more prevalent as a result of the recent addiction crisis in the Northeast. Having a sober community with activities and companions is one thing I know contributed greatly to my sobriety. Sober housing is not a new concept, but when an individual is looking to get sober, it is probably new to that person.
What all sober homes have in common is community.
Most people start their journey to recovery at a detox center or a thirty-day rehab program. This is a great first step, after admitting that you have a problem with drugs and/or alcohol. After this initial treatment, the chances of long term success are greatly increased when the person in recovery engages a supportive environment.
All sober homes offer similar, yet different things. For example, one sober home may not offer a coach or a companion, but will offer a sober driver for transportation. Whether you are looking to get sober, it’s important to build a community of like-minded people. This is what all sober homes have in common- community.
From experience having roommates who were also sober, living with sober minded people, and creating a network of people who were on the same path were all among the most important parts of my early recovery. I needed a to surround myself with sobriety in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle, free from drugs and alcohol. I remember back when I was living in my sober house and I went on a date. If you have never gone on a date as a sober person, it’s hard! Yet, having my roommates, I was able to get some great ideas!
I never thought the day would come where I would feel comfortable being sober in a nightclub, singing karaoke, or hanging out with musicians. In my experience the more like-minded people I met, the more comfortable I became in my skin. I was told to pick and commit to a path of recovery, and for me, it became the beginning of choosing a sober way of life. Whether it be AA, NA, Smart Recovery, or Dharma Punks, being around a clean, sober and healthy environment can do wonders for maintaining your sobriety.
When most people first get clean, they can never imagine being sober forever. People in AA would say, its “one day at a time” to recovery, and they are right. So my suggestion, when you’re stringing together a day at a time, is to create time with friends, build a support system, such as AA, and maybe even ask about jobs or other opportunities to hang with other sober singles.
Who would of thought entertainment, dating, games, and events while sober would be fun! I certainly didn’t in the beginning – but after time it became completely normal and actually much more fun / rewarding. So when you’re out looking for sober programs, remember to look for support in the community you’re involved in – it sure went a long way for me!
You deserve a joyous and meaningful life. Visit us at www.TharrosHouse.com to learn more about receiving the right guidance and support at Tharros House in Lexington, MA.
Frequently asked questions
Start with the community and the kind of support available day to day. Ask what the home provides, how residents spend their time, and whether the environment encourages connection with other people who are living sober.
No. One home may offer coaching or companionship, while another may provide transportation or different forms of practical support. Understanding what is included can help you find a setting that fits your needs.
Living around other sober people can provide connection during a time when everyday situations may feel unfamiliar. Roommates and peers can also become people to talk with about social plans, relationships, work, and other parts of daily life.
It can give you more opportunities to meet people who understand sober life and spend time together without alcohol or drugs. Over time, activities such as dating, entertainment, games, and events may begin to feel more natural without substances.
Not all sober programs follow the same recovery path. The post mentions AA, NA, Smart Recovery, and Dharma Punks as examples of different communities someone might explore while building a sober support system.
Paul Gardner
Paul Gardner is Co-founder and Managing Director of Tharros House, and interfaces with clients and families on a daily basis. Read more →
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