Addiction is a complex condition that affects millions of people in the United States. People living with substance abuse and addiction often need comprehensive treatment to get sober. Many also require ongoing support and treatment to maintain their recoveries.
A sober home can provide critical support and care after transitioning out of a drug and alcohol rehab. A sober living home provides a sober environment, structured schedule, and accountability that can help people stay on track in recovery.
This article will explore how to pack before moving into a sober living facility. You will learn:
- What to expect while living in a sober home
- What to pack for your stay in a sober home
- What to leave behind before moving into a sober facility
- How to determine if you may benefit from living in a sober home
- Where to find supportive sober living options near you
If you or someone you love needs support in addiction recovery, you are not alone. Find high-quality, supportive sober living options at Patricke’s Purpose. Contact our intake staff to learn about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is a Sober Home?
A sober living home is an environment where people can continue working toward lifelong recovery after completing an addiction treatment program. As the name implies, a sober home (sometimes called “recovery housing” or “recovery homes”) is a drug and alcohol-free living environment.
People may live in a sober home after attending inpatient or intensive outpatient recovery programs. People may transition directly from an inpatient program at a treatment center into a sober house.
A sober home is an ideal option for people in the early stages of their recovery journeys. They offer:
- A stable, safe, and sober living environment
- Support from staff
- Assistance with housing, mental health resources, employment, benefits, and more
- A community of sober peers
- Structure, including a schedule and house rules
- Flexibility to work, attend community programs, socialize, and engage in hobbies
Many sober living homes require people to complete a detox or rehab program before living there. Contact the Patrick’s Purpose intake team to learn more about joining a sober house.
What to Bring to a Sober Home
A sober house provides critical support and structure to help people stay focused on their recovery journey. Spending time in a sober environment reduces the risk of triggers that can increase the risk of relapse.
People might wonder what to bring to sober living homes. Each sober living house has its own requirements and rules. It is important to consult your program’s rules while packing.
Generally, the items you may bring to a sober house may include:
- Toiletries (shampoo, soap, feminine hygiene products, toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, lotion, etc.)
- Bedding (including sheets, pillows, and blankets)
- Comfortable clothing, including weather-appropriate clothing for the day and pajamas
- Shoes and slippers
- Approved entertainment (books, movies, games, puzzles, etc.)
- Equipment for hobbies, including art supplies, yoga mats, etc
- Prescription medications (consult your sober home’s staff about safe storage)
You may also want to bring personal items like a journal, photos of loved ones, or other special items. Having these items may help you feel more comfortable in a new space.
Consult the staff about personal electronics, including cell phones, tablets, and laptops. Make sure you only bring what is allowed to avoid problems during move-in.
What to Leave Behind Before Moving Into a Sober Home
A sober living facility is a safe, secure environment for all residents. The staff may enforce strict rules about what people can and cannot bring into the home.
Each sober facility has its own guidelines about what to pack and what to leave behind. Generally, items you should leave behind might include:
- Alcohol, drugs, and non-approved tobacco products
- Clothing featuring text or images referring to substance abuse
- Valuable items, including large amounts of cash, expensive electronics, and jewelry
- Hairdryers and other heat-styling tools
- Knives, guns, and other weapons
- Items that could be used for self-harm
Check with the staff at your recovery house if you have questions while packing. The staff at Patrick’s Purpose are always happy to answer questions about sober living or to help you find a program to meet your needs.
Is a Sober Home Right For Me?
A sober living facility can provide the structure, community, and support you need to stay on track in recovery. Here are some of the signs that you can benefit from the support of a sober home:
- You don’t feel ready to manage sobriety on your own
- You want support from caring professionals
- You do not have a stable, sober living environment
- You have a history of relapse after completing a treatment program
If you are committed to recovery and need support, sober living may be right for you. Contact the Patrick’s Purpose support specialists to learn more about our programs or to schedule an intake.