After undergoing detox and a residential treatment program for a substance abuse disorder, many require continued assistance in their efforts to regain economic self-sufficiency and independence. Transitional housing, often referred to as sober living, is the next step in the process of transitioning from a residential treatment program back into society. Transitional housing is intended for individuals and families who are in recovery and require further assistance before living independently on their own.
For many recovering addicts, homelessness is a major concern. Addiction, mental illness and other crisis are often to blame for financial instability that leads to homelessness. In some cases, a recovering addict may have a home to go to, but if there are other addicts living in the home, recovery can quickly be derailed and relapse is likely to occur. Transitional housing provides a safe, semi-controlled environment for individuals in recovery to continue working toward the ultimate goal of becoming independent once again.
Regulations

In transitional housing you will live in a home with other people who are transitioning from addiction treatment back to everyday life.
Transitional housing programs are not regulated by the state or local governments becase they do not conduct treatment on-site. Although some sober living communities will require residents to take an active role in their continued recovery by participating in various treatment and support programs, the facilities themselves generally do not provide treatment for residents.
The homes, apartments and facilities that residents in a transitional housing program live in are drug and alcohol-free, many impose curfews and most require residents to be gainfully employed or in search of gainful employment. The primary goal of all transitional housing programs is to assist individuals in getting back into an independent living situation while maintaining continued abstinence from the use of drugs or alcohol.
Is Transitional Housing Right for Me?
When you’re ready to move on, from residential treatment back into an independent living situation, transitional housing can provide a stepping stone toward that final goal of independence. Sober living or transitional housing programs are ideal for individuals who:
- Are ready to start living the skills that they learned in treatment.
- Require further assistance in getting back to independence.
- Need assistance with finding work, learning new skills or otherwise gaining the necessary elements for economic stability following treatment for drug or alcohol addiction.
- Are committed to remaining drug and alcohol free while they reintegrate back into society following treatment.
- Will commit to the rules of the transitional living home which often include submitting to drug or alcohol screenings, maintaining abstinence from substance abuse, continued involvement in treatment and maintaining respect for others in the program.
Transitional housing provides accountability for your actions while also offering freedom to choose how you live and continue to heal from addiction. To learn more about transitional housing or for help finding a transitional housing program that can provide you or a loved one with the sober living experience that will aid in the transition from treatment to live without drugs or alcohol, contact our helpline toll-free today.