Going through an inpatient rehab program is the best way to learn how to stay clean, and it provides a much lower risk of future relapses. However, facing the end of your time in a treatment facility is an unnerving process for some because it means losing the structure and supervision that makes treatment so effective. If you’re facing this type of situation, a halfway house may be the answer.

What is a Halfway House?
A halfway house is also commonly known as a sober living home because it requires that all residents adhere to a clean and sober lifestyle. This means you can’t be under the influence of drugs or alcohol while on the property, and it means bringing controlled substances onto the property is also prohibited. It’s an opportunity for addicts who have already been through treatment to adjust to living in society as sober individuals.

What Should You Expect?
The term “halfway house” is used for good reason in that it’s not as strict and regimented as a treatment facility, yet there are some basic rules every resident must follow. In addition to living a sober and clean lifestyle, residents are required to continue attending peer group meetings and adhering to other types of therapy necessary for their continued recovery. There is also a curfew at most halfway houses. Failing to adhere to these rules may get you evicted from the sober living home.

How Much is the Rent in a Sober Living Home?
As with any other type of dwelling, the rent amount will vary based upon the quality of the facility. You can get into a halfway house for as little as $100 a month in some areas, but the highest quality of the sober living home can charge up to $2,000 a month or more. You can work while you live in a sober living home, but most people start out by borrowing the money for their first month’s rent. 

You should take your time in choosing a halfway house. Each halfway house offers a different range of services to help you transition back into normal society. As you visit each sober living house, be sure to ask about their amenities and bring up anything else that concerns you. Taking your time to choose the right halfway house for your situation will help make your transition go more smoothly.