What is Life Like in a Halfway House?

If you have a loved one that has struggled with addiction to drugs and alcohol but is now trying to maintain their sobriety, you may be wondering about the benefits of a halfway house. Understandably, you may have some questions about what life is like in one of these homes. We are here to provide you with the answers you need, so you can feel comfortable supporting your loved one in their choice to enter a halfway house. Here are some things that you should understand about this part of the recovery process.

Life in a Halfway House Can Be an Integral Part of the Recovery Process

For some individuals, the thought of returning home after being in a treatment facility can be overwhelming. Many people see this return as a path to the same issues, emotions, and behaviors that led to their addictions in the first place. A halfway house can be one of the steps that makes it easier for someone to maintain their sobriety.

What Kind of People Live in a Halfway House?

Most of the folks who find themselves in a halfway house are people who have already completed some form of treatment for their addictions. Some people who are in a halfway house are actually at the beginning of their treatment process. They are using it as the first step toward committing to a more holistic approach to treating their addiction. In general, most people find themselves staying at a halfway house anywhere from three to twelve months.

How Restrictive is a Halfway House?

Many people who are considering a halfway house may wonder what kind of restrictions will be in place. Will they be allowed to leave the house? It’s only natural, as many good candidates for a halfway house have just completed a treatment program that was very restrictive of their freedoms. The truth is that most folks who live in a halfway house go about their everyday lives. They go to school, attend their place of worship, work, and even visit with friends. Of course, there is a commitment to living a sober life. There is also required participation in counseling, meetings, and being a good housemate through cleaning and other chores.

What Kind of Rules Should Be Expected at a Halfway House?

While every halfway house has its own set of rules and requirements, some are fairly universal. Someone who is considering entering a halfway house should expect many of the following rules to be standard:

  • Living a sober life. Residents should expect random testing for drugs and alcohol
  • Violence or fighting with other housemates will not be tolerated
  • Stealing, vandalism, and other destruction of property is not permitted
  • Curfews must always be followed
  • Chores, and other household tasks, should always be completed in a timely fashion
  • Attendance at meetings, appointments, and other important events is mandatory
  • Progress to becoming independent, like securing employment and a place to live once the stay at the halfway house is over, should be made.

How Do You Know if a Halfway House is the Right Choice?

The truth is that halfway houses are not the best option for everyone. Every person is different when it comes to what will set them for success. That being said, halfway houses can provide the type of support and structure that someone in recovery might need to stay on track with their sobriety. People who are considering a halfway house may want to talk to a therapist or doctor. They may have some unique insight that might be helpful. Additionally, many folks may be considering cost when looking at the potential of a halfway house.

The cost associated with this type of treatment can vary. The good news is that there may be options to help with those expenses. For example, insurance may cover the cost of a halfway house. You should contact your insurance provider to see what kind of coverage you might have in the event you choose this option. Other potential sources of assistance include:

  • Payment plans
  • Grants and scholarships
  • Personal loans
  • Credit cards
  • Savings

A Halfway House Helps People Stay Committed to Their Sobriety

In the end, a halfway house is committed to providing those who live there with assistance in maintaining and committing to their sobriety. If you are considering a halfway house for yourself or a loved one, please feel free to contact a member of our team with any questions that you may have about our program. Call us at 772-266-5320.

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Essentials mission is to renew lives impacted by addiction through personalized and complete behavioral healthcare. Our main purpose is to provide services and education to the client and family that will support long lasting recovery of mind, body, and spirit.