What Helps and What Hinders When It Comes to Sober Living Homes?

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Written By:

Starla Brown

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Reviewed By:

Our Editorial Content Team

Sober living homes provide people with an amazing opportunity to transition from a more monitored, structured environment (which often occurs with residential treatment) towards more independent living. People who still want to be surrounded by others working on their recovery and could still benefit from simple rules such as curfew and a no alcohol/drug policy, may find sober living homes to be an excellent next step in their journey to recovery. Whether you’ve just started living in a sober living home or you’ve been staying at one for several months now, you’d benefit to know from some of the factors that can enhance (or impede) your journey when it comes to sober living homes.

In 2016, researchers from the DePaul University Center for Community Research published an article in the American Journal of Community Psychology about what works – and what doesn’t – in sober living homes. A survey was sent out to 296 residents of sober living homes, with questions regarding their engagement with others and any perceived plans to leave. What the researchers found relates most similarly to any community – as long as one feels they’re part of something larger, a part of a home, they are more likely to remain engaged in their recovery efforts and get the most out of sober living homes.

The more inclusive a sober living environment is, the more likely members are to help one another out, take part in residential activities and commit to their program. What we have to remember is that sober living homes aren’t just any other location with houses – they are a collection of homes with people who have goals and dreams of recovery to strive for. This is an ultimate opportunity for people to connect with others, to build one another up and to work towards their goals in a safe, trigger-free environment.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has noted the tremendous impact that sober living homes have had on empowering those in recovery. If you’re considering a sober living home, speak with someone today. Your journey starts here.


Cumberland Heights is a nonprofit alcohol and drug-addiction treatment center located on the banks of the Cumberland river in Nashville, Tennessee. On a sprawling 177-acre campus, we are made up of 2 12-Step immersion campuses, 12 outpatient recovery centers and 4 sober living homes. We believe that each person has a unique story to tell – and that’s why we always put the patient first.

Call us today at 1-800-646-9998 to take the next step towards your happiness and health.

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