Secure, Safe Environments are Essential for Sobriety

Many of the homeless individuals that wander our streets are victims of the opioid and heroin epidemic that is prevalent across the nation. The lifestyle and environment that these individuals live in do not foster recovery from addiction, thus, they are exposed to a vicious cycle of substance abuse by virtue of their surroundings which puts them in life-threatening situations. Having supportive housing available for those who are struggling with substance abuse will allow these individuals to have access to safe, supportive environments that can help get them the assistance and guidance that they require.

Supportive housing can assist individuals who are struggling with addiction by providing them a stable place to recuperate and get back on the feet. These housing units are a cost-effective method of housing individuals who struggle with homelessness, mental illness, and chronic illnesses such as HIV and AIDS.

Halfway Homes Post-Treatment

After an individual has completed their intense inpatient or outpatient treatment program for their addiction, the last thing they anticipate is relapse which is also their biggest fear. One of the most important key factors in maintaining your sobriety is the environment that you are in post-treatment. The unique space must be conducive to recovery and sobriety which means it must be substance-free and free of the distractions that may lead you to use again.  

Halfway homes are a transitional type of housing initiative that is designed to help adapt the individual back into everyday life. These homes are designed for individuals who just finished their addiction treatment program, recovering from a substance abuse problem, and are looking for a safe environment during the most vulnerable time in their recovery; the first month after treatment. Making the transition back into everyday life is not easy and can be truly stressful and intimidating for those in remission from addiction. Halfways homes will ease the transition by providing a supportive environment and guidance

What is a Sober Living Home?

A sober living home differs from both supportive housing and halfway homes in that it is a home where residents work toward recovery for their substance abuse. These homes help individuals adjust to life after treatment and involve group counseling and other support groups that can help with the transition from treatment to everyday life.

Although it does not provide as much of a structured environment as an inpatient treatment program, it works along those guidelines with slightly more freedom and independence. This is intended as a stepping stone which helps you toward your end goal of living self-sufficiently, substance-free.

When individuals get the support, guidance, and care required after treatment, they are more likely to succeed in attaining long-term sobriety. Some of the benefits of seeking help from constructive and supportive homes during the recovery period are:

  • Counselors help you find a job
  • Assist in finding housing
  • Provide you with support group information/locations
  • Walk you through the various stages of life post-treatment
  • Provide support and guidance throughout your journey

It is always recommended that individuals seek the support of counselors, therapists, and recovery networks in order to lay the foundation for a successful and long-lasting recovery from addiction. With the assistance of these resources, individuals will be provided with the tools and resources required to live a life that is substance-free.

If you or a loved one needs help with abuse and/or treatment, please call the WhiteSands Treatment at (877) 855-3470. Our addiction specialists can assess your recovery needs and help you get the addiction treatment that provides the best chance for your long-term recovery.

About the Author

is a proud alumni member of WhiteSands Treatment. After living a life of chaos, destruction and constant let downs, Mark was able to make a complete turnaround that sparked a new way of life. He is serious about his recovery along with helping others. At WhiteSands Treatment, we offer support to you in your homes or when you are out living in your daily lives.