September is National Recovery Month, an observation of people who are working to achieve lifelong freedom from substance abuse, the cutting-edge therapies that are helping them live their best lives and the treatment professionals who make ongoing progress possible.
Transitional living has been a beneficial part of continuing care for many people who complete a stay in inpatient rehab and find they are not yet ready to return to the stressors and pressures associated with life outside a treatment program. As National Recovery Month continues, here’s what you need to know about the benefits of adding transitional living to your aftercare program.
1. Structure and Accountability
Many people find early recovery to be singularly challenging because they are relearning how to handle life’s ups and downs without the crutch of drugs and alcohol. No matter how much progress you made in your rehab program, you might need additional support to stay on track with your sobriety goals and handle any temptations that can come your way.
At New Found Life, our transitional living residents must abide by specific house rules, including:
- Submitting to random alcohol and drug testing.
- Participating in 12-step meetings.
- Attending weekly house meetings and group activities.
- Observing a curfew.
Adhering to these rules will keep you accountable while you focus on healing your mind and body from the effects of long-term substance abuse.
2. Life Skills
The goal of transitional living is to equip clients with the tools they need to live independently and cope with complex emotions that could represent relapse triggers. These include anxiety, boredom, sadness and frustration. As you move through our Footsteps residential aftercare program, you will benefit from group and individual counseling, excursions and weekly meetings. In this single-gender environment, residents gradually earn privileges through their behavior.
3. Opportunity to Rebuild Trust
Long-term substance abuse can affect all aspects of your life, especially your relationships with others. Family coaching allows you to reconnect with your loved ones and demonstrate your commitment to change. You can also resume school or work during your stay in transitional living, thus proving to yourself and others how responsible you are.
4. Sober Friendships
One of the most remarkable advantages of transitional living is the new relationships you’ll make along the way. Every resident of the sober living home has experienced many of the same challenges as you. They know firsthand what it’s like to see their lives spiraling out of control and finally decide to make a change for the better. This common ground represents the opposite of the loneliness and isolation that characterize the addiction cycle. Some of these friendships can last a lifetime.
Making a Fresh Start With Transitional Living
Research indicates a strong correlation between longer treatment durations and successful, sustained sobriety. If you need to work on becoming a healthier, happier person, a transitional living program can help you bridge the gap between your stay in our residential rehab and your return to the daily realities of life. Learn more about our complete continuum of care by requesting help today.