Addiction recovery is not a one-size-fits-all process. People have different needs and goals during recovery. While staying sober is a common goal among people in recovery, this can mean something different to each person.
People in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction sometimes use medications to manage mental health and medical conditions. People who use medicinal cannabis to manage chronic pain, anxiety, and other conditions may wonder how to balance this with recovery.
Sober living is a critical aspect of many people’s recovery journeys. People who use medical cannabis may wonder if they can live in a sober living home. This article will outline Patrick’s Purpose’s approach to medical and recreational cannabis use.
Contact our intake team now to learn more about Patrick’s Purpose and our approach to recovery support. Reach out with questions or to explore our programs. We look forward to connecting with you and supporting your unique recovery journey.
Cannabis Use in Recovery: Understanding the Issue
Some addiction experts worry that the risk of medical and recreational cannabis use can complicate a person’s recovery journey. Are people who use medicinal cannabis technically sober, or are they still using an addictive substance? Can people with substance use disorder (SUD) ever fully recover if they are engaging in cannabis use?
The answers to these questions are complicated. People have different definitions of long-term sobriety. For some, sobriety means abstaining from all mind-altering chemicals. For others, it may mean abstaining from “dangerous” drugs.
Some experts believe that medical cannabis use may be helpful for people who struggle with substance abuse. People with chronic pain, anxiety, and other conditions may sometimes self-medicate with addictive drugs. Medicinal cannabis allows people to get relief from disruptive symptoms without the risk of more severe complications or addiction.
Some treatment options require total sobriety, and other treatment programs accommodate medical cannabis use. Recreational marijuana use is typically prohibited. Setting your goals and finding a treatment program that aligns with your needs is critical.
Can You Smoke Weed in a Sober Home?
Recreational marijuana use is typically prohibited in sober living homes. However, some sober homes allow residents to engage in medical cannabis use.
Some research suggests that medical cannabis use may help people with addiction, especially opioid use disorder, prevent relapse. Some medical and addiction experts believe that using cannabis to treat chronic pain and other conditions may help people maintain their commitment to sobriety.
Each sober living home has its own rules and requirements. Some sober living homes require residents to abstain from all mind-altering chemicals, including cannabis. Some allow residents to use prescription medications, including medical cannabis, while living in the house.
Before joining any sober community, you must understand all the rules and requirements. Contact the team at Patrick’s Purpose to learn more about our sober living homes and programs.
Cannabis Use in Sober Living: Harm Reduction and Accountability
Many sober living homes require residents to attend Narcotics Anonymous (NA), Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), and other support groups as part of their treatment plans. At Patrick’s Purpose, we offer a weekly “Go Green” meeting for people who use medical cannabis.
Our Go Green meetings focus on harm-reduction methods that can help people in recovery balance their medical needs with their recovery goals. They are also a safe space for people to share their progress, ask questions, and find support from professionals and peers.
While residents at Patrick’s Purpose can use legally prescribed medical cannabis, they are not allowed to use marijuana recreationally. The goal of sober living is to create a safe environment that protects all residents’ progress in recovery. Recreational substance use is prohibited.
The Benefits of Sober Living in Recovery
Sober living can help people continue making progress in recovery after rehab. Here are some of the most significant benefits of sober living after rehab.
Stable housing
Sober living homes provide a safe, stable environment after completing rehab. Living in a sober house can reduce everyday triggers and provide a stable place to rebuild your life.
Community
Addiction recovery can be isolating and lonely. A sober living community can help people feel less alone as they navigate recovery. It can also increase accountability and increase social skills.
Support
Sober living homes provide essential essential personal and professional support during early recovery. Residents make new friends, learn about community resources, and receive encouragement that supports long-term recovery.
Structure
A sober living home provides a structure and schedule that can be helpful after rehab. A sober home is a middle ground between a highly structured rehab environment and independent living. People learn how to manage their responsibilities and create structure in their own lives.
Learn More About Sober Living
If you or someone you love needs support in recovery, contact Patrick’s Purpose’s recovery specialists today. You can learn about our sober living programs, ask questions, or schedule a tour.