Sober living homes, also known as residential detoxification homes and sober living centers, are residential facilities that offer structured, supervised living conditions and safe shelter for individuals exiting drug addiction programs. The most common symptoms associated with withdrawal from opiate drugs are disinterest in routine activities, irritability, anxiety, physical deterioration, and suicidal thoughts. People in recovery from these drugs often have no interest in having friends or participating in recreational activities. Consequently, they are subject to isolation and abuse by family members who seek to maintain control. SLHs provide an alternative to this grim existence by providing a safe haven from the negative effects of living on the outside and interacting with peers. They also offer an opportunity for socialization and increased exposure to non-drug related activities and systems which may lead to increased well-being.
There are many benefits of entering a sober living situation. First, by deciding not to engage in substance abuse, the individual becomes accountable for his or her actions. In addition, it helps an individual to make changes that will positively affect their life in the long term. Studies indicate that after one year in a SLH, there is a significant reduction in the frequency and severity of problematic behaviors and substance use, especially alcohol use. Other studies suggest that a reduction in substance use and misuse may result in a decrease in hospitalizations for alcohol and drug abuse, drug-related deaths, and incarceration for substance abuse (e.g., heroin addiction).
In terms of physical health, a person entering a sober housing environment may notice less body aches and an increase in energy. Also, there may be a noticeable improvement in the physical appearance of the person. Weight loss is typically a common side effect, as well as a decrease in mood swings and a sense of mental clarity. Drug users who progress to substance dependent states often experience significant setbacks in the ability to maintain healthy diets and physical activities due to the negative health effects associated with substance abuse.
Many individuals who enter SLH do so because they have experienced traumatic events like the death of a loved one. A therapist can help an addict to identify triggers and symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and/or depression. When an individual begins to develop symptoms of PTSD or depression, they should be evaluated for involvement in SLH. The goal of many sober living houses is to intervene with clients suffering from substance abuse and other mental health problems. Therapy can include but is not limited to, exposure therapy, social skills therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and social skills training.
The staff in the sober living in riverside facilities is highly trained and dedicated to serving residents in a comfortable and safe environment. Staffs are typically required to have a background in medicine or counselling and are monitored on a daily basis to ensure the well-being of each resident. Most sober centres do not allow smoking in residences, require personal hygiene in rooms, and limit the number of guests per resident. All residents in SLH are required to wear accredited clothing purchased through a private distributor; colours and style requirements may vary between facilities.
This article is provided free of charge as information only for reference purposes. It should not be used in place of, or in conjunction with, professional medical advice or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. When in doubt about whether this article is correct for use in place of medical advice, contact a doctor. This article is not intended to be used as support or cure for any disease or condition. If you are in need of health care, please consult a licensed physician for your treatment. To understand more about this topic, click here: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Addiction.
