It is common for individuals in addiction recovery to integrate the notion of taking things one step at a time. Part of recovery is the possibility of relapse. Achieving and maintaining sobriety for any length of time is commendable, but the long-term goal of substance abuse treatment would be for an individual to remain sober throughout the remainder of his or her life. In addiction treatment, a person in recovery cannot focus too much on the future as it can be overwhelming, dwelling on the past will not change it, so the most one can do is focus on the present.

Individuals who have spent any amount of time abusing a substance, regardless of the type of substance, has undoubtedly done harm to one’s physical body. In some cases, the negative physical effects can be resolved, and in some cases an individual will simply need to learn how to deal with the possible long term consequences. When an individual becomes addicted to drugs or alcohol his or her body becomes reliant upon the substance to properly function. Removing the substance from one’s body through detox can be extremely uncomfortable and in many cases, can be painful. An individual has to relearn how to use his or her body without the presence of the abused substance, but cannot do this until his or her body is completely rid of the substance. Once this stage is completed, the emotional component to one’s addiction can be addressed. Working through the emotional effects of one’s addiction, which can also include trauma or painful emotional experiences prior to one’s substance abuse, will be a continuous feat throughout one’s recovery process.

There are several stages an individual in substance abuse treatment will work through. The first step is the detoxification stage, which is done to clear one’s body from the abused substance or substances. The next step would be to find some kind of long or short term treatment program to help the individual learn to emotionally cope without the use of drugs or alcohol. These types of treatment also help to teach the individual healthier coping mechanisms for life’s challenges, without having to turn to drugs or alcohol. For many, the next step and final step is the maintenance of one’s sobriety. This step can be accomplished in many different ways. Additionally, this stage is a life-long process, and will shift throughout one’s lifetime.

Transitional living can be extremely beneficial for individuals who have completed the previous steps of substance abuse treatment. Depending on the geographical location, transitional living goes by many names. It can be referred to as the following: sober living, recovery houses, halfway homes, and recovery residences…etc.

When an individual is in a substance abuse or addiction treatment program his or her primary focus is on his or her sobriety. In some ways, an addiction treatment program is a bit of a safe bubble for a person in treatment. While in a treatment program, every aspect of an individual’s life is revolved around his or her remaining sober. Once an individual completes a treatment program, whether it be inpatient or outpatient, he or she is faced with returning to the real world. There are many temptations and possible triggers for a person in recovery who is newly emerging into the outside world. This is where the many benefits to transitional living come into play.

Transitional living is a residence where a group of people who are all dealing with substance abuse or addiction will reside together. It will offer a unique sense of community. This can be supportive on many levels. Living with other sober individuals can give people a unique sense of accountability. Not only will it allow for a built-in support network, but it will also have a group of like-minded, sober individuals with which to spend time.

The individuals that reside in a transitional living facility will have similar goals regarding sobriety, and will also be under the auspices of the same house rules. Many transitional living facilities will offer a variety of additional support some of which can include, a certain number of group meetings, exercise facilities, connections with local places of employment, and residential therapists. Some will even have catered meals, or provide locally grown, healthy groceries.

If an individual is struggling with substance abuse or addiction it is imperative to seek treatment. There are a number of support options available. Anyone who wishes to learn more should feel free to reach out to any substance abuse treatment facility, hospital or clinic for further information.