Category: Sober Living

Anything Free When Seeking Sober Homes Means Danger

On May 25, 2018

In Halfway House, Lantana, Recovery, Sober Living

Any time a Halfway House is offering free rent, free phones, free gym memberships, or anything to entice you to come to them is a place you should stay away from. Reputable Halfway Houses do not do this. While this seems to be a great opportunity to get some much needed cash, Houses that do this are placing you in the hands of people that do not care about you, your treatment, your future, or regards for your life. They will talk a great game, be your best friend, connect with you sharing their recovery story, pose as a recovery advocate and make you feel like they can help. However, they only care about the personal monetary gain from placing you and how they can manipulate the insurance company to pay for treatment. These entities have been known to allow drugs and alcohol use, and entice relapse so you go back to a higher level of care. It is vital to be aware of this when seeking sober homes.

These situations with offers of free enticements will put you at high risk for relapse, homelessness and even death.

http://behavioralhealthnetworkresources.com/blog/top-five-criteria-sober-livings-west-palm-beach

Kevin’s Story

By oceanwalk

On April 12, 2018

In Halfway House, Lantana, Recovery, Sober Living

When I went to treatment, it felt like a vacation to me. I went to the pool, played volleyball, worked out, and ate fantastically. The day I left however I was scared out of my mind, now what do I do? I made the right decision to move into a Halfway House. There I found people like me, who felt like me, and we all supported one another while we learned to live life being alcohol and drug free. Through House meetings, working with a sponsor and doing the 12-Steps we all became better men learning to live a life free of drugs and alcohol. We had a support system for each other rather then just moving back home with parents or friends and falling back into our old routine.

I firmly believe this Halfway House support system where i lived for the next 4 months, is what ultimately saved my life. I look back today and fondly remember that not only did I have fun there, I made great and lasting friends there. Many years later I am still clean and sober, and I am still friends with several of my Housemates! None of this would have been possible if it were not for the decision to move into a Halfway House after treatment. It saved my life and the lives of my family.

What is The Cost of a Sober House in Palm Beach County?

By oceanwalk

On September 25, 2017

In Delray Beach, Halfway House, Lantana, Sober Living

The cost of sober houses in Palm Beach County can depend on a number of variables. The benefit of sober houses over halfway houses is the fact that in sober houses, there is no limit on the amount of time one can spend there. So long as the patient can pay for the housing, and abide by the house’s rules, they can stay for as long as they need. The purpose of sober houses is to help addicts not only recover from their addiction, but to rehabilitate their lives. Patients can often self-fund their stay at sober houses by getting jobs of their own. Generally insurance companies will not cover the cost of living at a sober house.

Cost breakdown

Sober house pricing generally includes not only the price of the housing itself, but several amenities associated with sober living. These can include:

Recovery programs
24-hour support
Paid utilities such as cable, internet, and power
Assistance with finding employment

Price is dependent upon the level and quality of amenities provided by the houses, as well as the style of housing. Some sober houses are a single large building that provides accommodation for up to 200 residents at a time, while other houses are comprised of smaller individual homes that can accommodate a much smaller number of residents–generally three to five individuals. The larger, bunker-style sober houses tend to be lower in price, while houses that offer private bedrooms are higher.

Most sober houses offer pricing both by the week or by the month, with some having a minimum stay requirement ranging between a few months to a year. Renting by the month rather than by the week tends to offer a slight discount in pricing. The cost of rent in sober houses in West Palm Beach County is comparable to renting an apartment there. Prices for one month’s stay in a sober house typically range between $800 and $1400 (in comparison, the average cost of a two-bedroom apartment in West Palm Beach County is approximately $1300.) There are, however, some sober houses in West Palm Beach that are far more upscale, offering detailed rehabilitation programs, on-site doctors and therapists, medical treatment, and other amenities, which can cost as much as $3000 per month. Ours is $200 per week.

Overall, the cost of sober houses in Palm Beach County are relatively affordable, especially given most of the sober houses help their tenants find steady employment which helps pay for the cost. For addicts in need of help, sober houses provide a cost-effective, safe, and helpful way of recovering from addiction and integrating successfully into society as a recovered addict.

If you’re ready to start your new life, call us today at 561-929-6900.

What Things Can I Have and Not Have While in a Sober Living House?

By oceanwalk

On September 22, 2017

In Delray Beach, Halfway House, Lantana, Sober Living, South Florida

For anyone entering a Sober Living House, one of the most important questions is what you can, and cannot have while you are there. You want to start your new life making a good first impression, and if you follow general guidelines you should be well prepared.

Starting with the most commonly banned items will make the transition easier while taking some of the nerves away. The first item would be, of course, any illicit substances. This includes illegal drugs and any kind of alcohol. In addition, if you are on any prescription medications, you must notify them and have your medicine in its original container.

This list is not all-inclusive but will give you a good head-start in most Sober Living Houses. Commonly banned items that contain alcohol:

The things that I can NOT have while in a Sober Living House

Any medications that are mind or mood altering
Cosmetic or skin care creams/lotions/liquids
Food items like vanilla
Herbal/Organic remedies with mood changing properties

This much more fun part of your preparation is to ensure you feel at home in your new surroundings. Bring clothes that are appropriate for the climate, while still adhering to decency rules. Pants, tees, a business casual outfit, work clothes, exercise attire, and proper shoes are a must. Flip flops for the beach, sport shoes for working out or playing, and dress or work shoes are the best assortment.

As for personal items, make sure you take your personal toiletries (most Houses allow disposable razors) as well as hair tools. Limit jewelry to watches and wedding or engagement rings. If you use tobacco products bring those along too; e-cigarettes and vaping apparatus may be the exception.

Most importantly make sure you bring photographs, journals, and anything that will make your room more homey and comfortable. You want things that remind you of happiness and well being, and bring a centeredness to your surroundings. CD/MP3/DVD players are also a great source of pleasure. Finally and probably the best item to bring is certainly your cell phone so you feel connected again.

You will receive support and guidelines in your Sober Living House so that you can be at your best. When you are ready to begin, our counselors are available 24 hours a day. Call 561-929-6900

If I Live in a Sober House in South Florida, Do I Have to Go To AA Meetings?

By oceanwalk

On September 20, 2017

In Delray Beach, Halfway House, Lantana, Recovery, Sober Living, Sobriety

Whether you have just completed rehabilitation in an addiction recovery facility or you are looking for an effective alternative to treat your addiction, a sober house in South Florida can be an important part of your recovery. It is one more step that will help you to return to normal life once your dependence on the source of your addiction has been broken. You need to put substance abuse behind you if you are going to live a healthy life. A sober house provides you with a place where you can stay during the transition stage to wellness. When you live in a sober house, you will:

Have a safe envrionment
Be supported by staff members who care about you
Live with others who are experiencing similar struggles
Be an active member of the household as you take care of daily responsibilities

You must remain sober in order to stay in a sober living home. Each day spent in your supportive environment will bring you one step closer to a return to your home, family, and work.

Are AA Meetings Required During Your Stay in a Sober House in South Florida?

You will be required to go to AA meetings or some other type of 12-step program while you are staying in your sober house. This is a crucial part of the recovery process as you regularly meet with others to share your experiences with one another. It will give you the opportunity to talk about your triumphs and your challenges. You will learn that you are not alone. The personal stories of others could have a positive impact on you. You need to recognize your addiction and discuss ways that you can cope with the pressures of life once you are no longer in your sober living home. The support and companionship of others can go a long way in helping you to overcome your personal struggles. It isn’t easy to break free from addiction. Other members of your sober living home understand where you are coming from. They will work with you to help you cross the finish line successfully. Your regular meetings can help you to achieve your goals when you are open and honest about yourself.

Ready to get started with sober living? Call now 561-929-6900

What Are The Rules of a Sober Halfway House Like After Treatment?

By oceanwalk

On September 15, 2017

In Delray Beach, Halfway House, Sober Living, Sobriety, South Florida

Addiction treatment can come in various forms. Some addicts find recovery in AA/NA or other step based recovery programs. Others find IOP treatment to be acceptable, while many turn to residential treatment programs. No matter which resource you choose for treatment, a long term sobriety plan is critical for success in sobriety. Selecting the right sober halfway house is just as important as choosing the right treatment plan, and following the rules is mandatory to avoid being removed from the program. If you or your loved one is planning on a long term sober halfway house, make sure you know the rules you can expect before checking in.

No Drug Use

Not only is substance abuse detrimental to sobriety, it can trigger other residents and cause them to relapse. Drugs, alcohol, mouthwash, cough medicine, or other over-the-counter products that contain alcohol are prohibited.

Sober halfway homes require those who take medication are required to report it to the staff members and take their medication as prescribed.

No Stealing

Honesty and integrity are important aspects of sobriety, and stealing from other residents can be grounds for immediate dismissal from sober living programs.

No Violence

Just as violence is not accepted in non-sober communities, it is not accepted in sober halfway homes either. This applies to both verbal and physical violence, to all staff members and other residents of the sober halfway house.

12 Step Meetings

Support groups are an important part of maintaining sobriety. If you choose to go to a halfway house, it is critical that you start looking for 12-step based programs to help improve your success rates. These meetings also have sponsors available, and many sober halfway homes require that you retain a sponsor at all times.

Obey Curfew

While many residents don’t understand the need for a curfew, it is another important part of the recovery process. Not only does a structured schedule and curfew help promote a sober lifestyle, it ensures that you get plenty of rest for the next day. A curfew also helps newly sober addicts to avoid tempting situations that may encourage a relapse.

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction and are interested in getting into a highly rated sober halfway house, it is important to act fast. Immediate help can be found by calling today. We are available 24 hours a day at 561-929-6900. A sober lifestyle is the best gift you can give yourself or your loved one.

What is Sober Living Like in South Florida?

By oceanwalk

On September 13, 2017

In Halfway House, Lantana, Sober Living, Sobriety, South Florida

Sober living centers in South Florida can aid in the path to successful, long-term sobriety. First, what is sober living?

Sober living is a program providing solid care options for the people recovering from drug or alcohol addiction. Sober living is also an excellent opportunity for the recovering addict to get a clear view of the new direction the post-recovery life must take.

Typically, sober living is a post-rehab housing arrangement. Completing rehabilitation from alcohol and addiction is a major achievement which a sober living home strengthens in several ways:

The opportunity for lifestyle changes and therapies that promote a new beginning in life.
Physical removal from the peers and environments enabling drug addiction through comprehensive, long-term, residential rehab programs.
Help during the transition from addiction to a sober, normal daily lifestyle. Sober living enables the recovered individual to get a taste of the real world devoid of the make-believe drug-inspired notions.
The sober living programs run from 90 days up to one year or more.

South Florida sober living centers provide safe, structured environments where you can continue with the final recovery stages and get used to the real world. Sober living teaches life skills, active work lifestyle, and the means to connect with sober peers.

The Benefits of Sober Living in South Florida

The complete counseling, treatment, support in sober living homes eliminate the feelings of loneliness and isolation as well as providing the following opportunities.

Roommates: Living among other people to help develop excellent communication skills and learning how to work and socialize alongside other people as you prepare to interact with the outside world.

Flexible Schedules: Freedom that you do not find in a rehab program center.

Meetings: Meetings at which peers offer encouragement.

Peer to Peer Counseling: Peer sessions to discuss the lingering addiction issues, trauma, or self-esteem.

Volunteering, Work, and Education Opportunities: Involvement in work, education, and community service to help you adapt to real life and attain personal growth.

Family involvement: Family members can visit, participate in sober living events, and counseling sessions to promote healthy post-rehab family relationships.

Drug Testing: Random drug tests to promote sobriety and prevent relapse to drugs and alcohol use.

The Residents are all expected to get up, go to work, meetings, do errands, etc. come home, Brethalyze daily and Urine Test 3 Times a week.

There are two required house meetings each week: Wednesday at 7:45 PM and Sunday at 7:30 PM. Curfew is 10 PM, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, Midnight Friday and Saturday.

If you would like additional support to address addiction recovery, contact us today at 561-929-6900.

Staying Sober After a Hurricane in Florida

By oceanwalk

On September 11, 2017

In Delray Beach, Halfway House, Lantana, Recovery, Sober Living, Sobriety, South Florida

Staying Sober After the Storm

The effects of a hurricane can often be devastating. You may have had damage to your property during the storm. A friend or family member may have been hurt or suffered a loss. It truly is an emotional time. During stressful events, it is easy to turn to drugs and alcohol to numb yourself from the effects of this natural disaster. However, you do not have to fall to substances to help you cope with the aftermath of the storm. Instead, try to deal with the stress in a healthier way.

How to Cope with the Aftermath

After a hurricane, it is important for you to remain sober. Stressful situations can be a huge trigger for returning to drugs and alcohol. To keep yourself from falling off the wagon, try some of these options:

Attend meetings.
Talk to people.
Keep yourself occupied.
Process your feelings.
Be thankful for what you still have.
Keep a routine.
Take a break from the news.

After a major hurricane, it may be difficult to locate a twelve-step meeting. Even if you are able to locate one, it may be difficult for you to find transportation to a meeting. If this is your circumstance, find another way to get your meeting in. Whether it is talking to your sponsor, a friend, a family member, or a neighbor about the stress that you are feeling, you need to be able to let it out. Feel your emotions, talk about them, and process them. This can be a difficult thing to do, but that is why it is important to talk to others.

Another way to prevent yourself from relapsing, is to keep yourself occupied. This can be as simple as playing cards with a friend or family member. It could mean taking small steps towards fixing your property damage, or even a neighbor’s property damage. Whatever you can do to keep your mind busy, not focused on the effects of the hurricane, and not thinking about substances will be beneficial.

In the wake of a natural disaster, you may feel as if you have lost everything. Most likely, those things were just materials and can be replaced. Instead, try to focus on your blessings and what you do have left after the storm. For one, you have your sobriety!

Natural disasters cause destruction. They are destructive to your surroundings, but more importantly they are destructive to your natural order. So, try to keep your daily routine. I know this may be difficult if you are at a shelter or somewhere other than home. But, even eating and sleeping at your normal times can help you feel as if everything is normal. People who feel normal do not need substances to help them feel normal.

Finally, all that destruction is obviously plastered all over every news channel in the state. It is only natural to want to see what the hurricane did. However, all of the negative talk, images of loss, and even the hyped-up media talk can cause you extra stress. You don’t really need any extra stress. So, take a break from the news, even if it means watching a crazy sitcom or walking away from the television all together.

Hurricanes can leave a mess behind them. They can uproot even the most stable person. If you find yourself needing a little extra help keeping sober after you have experienced a hurricane, we can help. Please contact us at 561-929-6900.