Approximately 70% of adults who have ever experienced a substance abuse issue consider themselves to still be in recovery. Recovering from addiction can be a difficult process for many, but it’s not impossible with the right help.
For those looking for sober living in Long Beach, CA, there is certain information to keep in mind. Let’s explore how to make the best decision for your needs.
1. Consider the Location
One of the most important attributes to consider in a sober living home is its location. Do you feel the neighborhood is safe? How far is it from your school/work? Is it close to places like banks, grocery stores, etc.?
The last thing you want is to choose a sober living home that’s far away from the facilities you often visit. For example, if the home doesn’t have a washer or dryer, it’s imperative to choose one in close proximity to a laundromat. You should also consider the entertainment activities available.
If there’s nothing to do with your free time in the area, you may find it difficult to avoid indulging in certain substances.
2. Research Their Reputation
Not all sober living homes are created equal. You can learn a lot simply by researching its reputation.
See what past presidents have to say about their experiences. Did they feel safe while living in the home? Do they feel as though their needs were heard and attended to?
Certain factors to prioritize include a home that is structurally sound, one that is accredited/licensed, and one that provides access to ongoing support services. These can play a large role in the results you get.
3. Check the House Rules
You should always look for homes that have clearly designated house rules. They should have a strict drug/alcohol policy that prohibits use. The home should also require drug tests.
There are certain rules that vary between locations. For example, one sober living home might have a strict policy on romantic relationships. Another may have no rules at all about this scenario.
The better you understand the requirements, the easier it will be for you to adjust. Don’t be afraid to forego options that seem too strict. Although people choose sober living homes to help get their lives together, this doesn’t mean they need to be miserable while living there.
4. Visit the Home Yourself
No matter how nice online pictures look, it’s essential to visit the home yourself. This will allow you to see the house for what it is and potentially notice details you wouldn’t have otherwise.
Keep an eye out for how happy the current residents seem. You should also pay attention to how clean the house is during your visit.
It doesn’t hurt to bring a friend or family member along so you can get their opinion on the house. This will help you narrow down potential options.
5. Understand the Costs
Unfortunately, relocating to a sober living home isn’t free. Most charge tenants a fee that covers room and board. However, you’ll need to budget for transportation, food, etc. during your stay.
Depending on the situation, your health insurance may cover some of these costs. Get in touch with the admissions representatives at the sober living home to shed light on these details.
The better you understand the costs, the less likely you are to encounter financial surprises.
6. Meet the Staff
It’s in your best interest to choose a home that has warm, welcoming staff. They should also be properly qualified.
Consider whether they live on-site and if they are also in recovery. Ask them how they enforce accountability at the sober living home.
To have the best chance of recovering properly, you need to be in an environment that is conducive to recovery. The staff will play a large role in the overall atmosphere of the place you live.
7. Prioritize Flexibility
Flexibility is something you cannot overlook. This is simply because there’s no way to predict how long you’ll need to stay at the sober living home.
It’s best to choose a home that allows you to stay as long as you need. Some homes have strict policies regarding tenant residency duration, and these are the ones you should avoid.
8. Don’t Ignore Red Flags
Some of the most common red flags include the absence of house rules, a home that isn’t regularly inspected, and one that doesn’t require drug testing for residents.
Other factors to look out for include houses that are dirty, ones that claim to be free, and houses that don’t have qualified staff. Not only will these detract from your recovery, but they could also potentially put you in a dangerous environment.
9. Go With Your Gut
When in doubt, go with your gut. Relocating to a sober living home is a big decision, and it’s not when you should take it lightly.
If something feels off or unpleasant, it’s in your best interest to consider other options. This will help you avoid potential issues and find a home that offers a positive living experience.
Sober Living in Long Beach, CA Is Simple
It doesn’t have to be difficult to find sober living in Long Beach, CA. As long as you do your due diligence, you can make the decision that’s best for your situation and get your life back on track as soon as possible.
Contact a representative at Faith Recovery today. Our professional staff is ready to assess your needs and help you get started.