When someone makes the decision to stop using, they need a safe place to detox and get their life back on track. And even though some people are able to detox under the care of their treating physician outside of a halfway house, many others need a safe haven with ongoing support.
What is a halfway house?
Contrary to what some people believe, halfway houses are not for people who can’t make it in society. A halfway house is a type of sober living home that allows its residents to live in a substance-free area. Entering a sober living environment is a big step for people who are recovering from their addiction.
Halfway houses are often less expensive than other places such as residential rehab programs. Furthermore, they also come with many of the benefits and services as these programs. Some of the additional benefits include ongoing support and camaraderie with others who are going through the process as well.
What can someone expect from living in a halfway house?
Because a halfway house helps people readjust to living sober in society, they do come with their own structure. In fact, this structure is designed to help keep a recovering person’s mind occupied. Compared to residential rehab programs, however, many halfway homes give their residents more freedom.
By giving more freedom to the residents, we mean that they’re allowed to attend school and go to work as they would if they were at home. However, there is a limit to this freedom. Remember that you’re in the halfway house to take crucial steps towards your recovery. That means you must always attend meetings and therapy, if it’s in your recovery plan.
Here is a list of other rules that must be followed as well:
– Residents must adhere to a curfew that’s set by the staff
– Residents are given certain chores and are expected to complete them within the day
– Mandatory therapy sessions, both group and individual must be attended
– Unemployed residents must try to find work
– All residents must remain sober and to not bring any type of substance into the halfway house
It’s important to remember that certain halfway houses don’t include some of the things listed here. But regardless, if the rules aren’t followed, expulsion may occur.
How long is a typical stay at a halfway house?
The length of a resident’s stay depends on the person. In most cases, the typical length of stay ranges from a few months to a full year. This gives residents plenty of time to get used to sober living and learning how to integrate back into society.
However, there are some cases where residents remain longer. In addition, people who are no longer legally obligated to be in a halfway house can leave whenever they please. It’s important to note that doing so means that the resident feels they are ready to live independently. However, depending on the stipulations of stay, they may be at risk for losing their deposit, if one was required.
How much does it cost to be in a halfway house?
Although halfway house can play a significant role in recovery, they’re not free. The cost of the stay also varies depending on the area. In some cases, a halfway house may cost as little as $100 per month while others can cost up to more than $2,000 a month. If the halfway house of choice is going to is in a metropolitan area, the cost could be considerably more than other locations.
When it comes to covering the cost, there are options. The cost may be covered under the resident’s health insurance plan. But remember this depends if the company participates in their network. Another way to afford a halfway house is to see if they offer payment plans. Some halfway houses even offer scholarships. Similar to a school scholarship, resident must prove they’re committed to staying sober in order to maintain coverage.
Deciding to live sober isn’t always easy, but it is possible when you have the right mindset and professionals working with you. A halfway house can provide you with the structured environment and emotional support you need to get by. If you’re ready to take the first steps towards recovery, contact us at 954-523-1167