Drug and alcohol addiction is a problem that affects millions of men, women, and teenagers around the world and throughout the United States. Every day, thousands of men and women decide that they are through being chained to their drug or alcohol of choice and instead decide to do something about it. Luckily, there are changes that you can make when you want to get onto the road to recovery. Inpatient, residential, and outpatient treatment centers offer the professional help most patients need to overcome their addiction and learn how to live a sober life.
But once the program ends, what can you do? Many patients have the choice to go to a sober living home or a halfway house. The two are similar, and it is easy to see why people confuse the two places. Each place offers the support and community that addicts need when they are working on their sobriety. But both housing options have a couple of small differences. While they may be negligible, you will want to know what you will be getting into before you choose one. There is a history to be learned concerning the two, so let’s get into that part next.
History of the Two Choices
Many people are shocked to learn that halfway homes were opened up in the 18th century. In England, children who committed crimes were sent to stay in halfway homes. When they started opening in the U.S., released criminals were sent there to live after being let out of prison. This is still a common occurrence today. Many halfway homes are open for newly-released criminals or for the homeless in the area. Some people are court-ordered to stay in a halfway home after being released from prison or during a probationary period.
Sober living homes also have a long history, beginning in the early 1800s. Religious organizations would open them up as “dry hotels” where residents would commit to abstaining from alcohol. Today, sober living homes are offered as an “in-between home” for patients who have gotten out of residential programs but still need structure and order.
Read on to learn about the differences between the two places
Sobriety is an important aspect of your life, so you’ll want to understand exactly where you should go- a sober living home or a halfway house? Sober living homes are typically affiliated with local addiction treatment facilities. They are run by experts and professionals who are committed to providing safe and clean living spaces for addicts in recovery. Many work in conjunction with local rehab centers, offering rooms for residents who complete detox and rehab programs. A sober living home will have rules and regulations, just like a residential treatment center does. However, there is much more flexibility within a sober living facility. Most residents leave every day for work, school, or family responsibilities.
In contrast, many halfway homes are government-run agencies. They are often compared to dorm rooms in a university- crowded and noisy. They usually do not have the structure and privacy of a sober living home, and many people living in halfway homes may be court-ordered to be there.
The Costs of Both
Another big difference between halfway homes and sober living homes is the cost of the stay. Since halfway homes offer fewer perks, such as less privacy, they are generally less expensive. Sober living homes are usually more expensive because they are a little more luxurious. However, many insurance plans will cover sober living expenses, making it a wonderful option for addicts who need continued support for their addiction. If you are not sure whether your insurance will cover either, call a representative who can find out for you.
Call Today for More Information
While there is a difference between the two, you’ll want to keep these options in mind once you have completed your drug and alcohol rehab program. If you are eager to learn more about the two, we can help! Give us a call today to see if one of these options should be part of your recovery plan. We can be reached day or night at 844-639-8371. We look forward to the change we can make in your life!