Am I A High Functioning Alcoholic?

Knowing when alcohol consumption has become a real problem isn’t always easy. Too often, a person thinks they have to be falling down drunk daily and unable to function in life because of their alcohol consumption in order to have a real problem. These people might need to ask themselves an important question: Am I a high-functioning alcoholic? If the answer is yes, it’s time to face the facts and get the vital help they need.  

What Is a High-Functioning Alcoholic?

A high-functioning alcoholic is someone who abuses alcohol while continuing to maintain a great deal of their personal life. This includes career, school, family life, personal obligations, hobbies, and more. Some people may not be able to maintain all of those areas, but they are capable of presenting themselves to others as having control over a great deal of or all of their lives. They do all of this despite the fact that they are addicted to alcohol. 

The fact that this person can live in a way that fools many others often helps them avoid admitting to themselves that they have a problem. They believe that as long as they can do things like continue to show up at work, take care of their families, or meet other responsibilities, they can’t be a real alcoholic. 

Despite what their outer appearance may be to others, the high-functioning alcoholic still drinks excessively, even though they likely hide some of their alcohol consumption. Many of them drink moderately during the day and do not appear inebriated to others. They may drink enough to keep from having withdrawal symptoms and keep a buzz going. Others manage to hold off on drinking until later in the day. 

These people often believe that alcoholism is defined as drinking excessively all day without being able to control it. As a result, because they do not do this, they fool themselves into thinking their drinking is under control. A person who asks themselves, “Am I a high-functioning alcoholic?” likely needs a deeper examination of their alcohol intake and if it has crossed a line.

Am I a High-Functioning Alcoholic?

Because a stereotype exists about what alcoholism looks like, it can be hard for someone to accurately find the answer to “Am I a high-functioning alcoholic?” Some questions to ask yourself include:

• Do I drink moderately part of the time in order to feel a buzz until I can drink a larger amount?

• Do I often drink heavily at certain times, such as in the evening, on weekends, or when I’m alone?

• Do I have a reputation as someone who can party hard?

• Do I sometimes wish I could drink during certain situations, or drink more than I do, such as at work, school, with family and friends, or while participating in social events?

• Have I maintained good health but worry that continued drinking may compromise that?

• Do I hide evidence of how much I drink?

• Do I spend a lot of money on alcohol, even trying to hide the amount spent?

• Have I avoided repercussions for drinking alcohol at places like work so far but know it’s risky behavior?

• Do I typically consume five or more drinks per sitting?

• Did I start drinking alcohol in my teen or college years but the amount escalated later in life?

Signs and Symptoms of Alcoholism

In order to determine “Am I a high-functioning alcoholic?”, a person needs to look for certain signs. Loved ones can also use the following list to see if the person they care about may fit this description. Signs and symptoms of having an alcohol use disorder (AUD) include:

• Drinking consistently, whether throughout the day, once a day, or several days per week

• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not drinking

• Having tried to stop drinking but couldn’t do it

• Often having hangovers

• Loved ones have expressed concern about your drinking levels

• Spending a lot of money on alcohol

• Choosing social functions based on the availability of alcohol or bringing your own supply to them

• Negative repercussions related to drinking at work, home, school, or elsewhere

• Suspecting you have a drinking problem but convincing yourself it’s not that bad

• Risky behavior when drinking, like driving, unsafe sex, and more

Treatment for High-Functioning Alcoholics

If you are starting to realize “I am a high-functioning alcoholic”, you may not know what your next step should be. The first step in treating alcohol use disorder involves going to rehab. This process lasts from five to ten days and allows the person to rid their bodies of residual toxins built up as a result of alcoholism. From there, a person may enter a residential program, which requires living in a treatment facility for 30 days or more.

Other people transition into outpatient care. This allows them to receive treatment after they return home. For many individuals, sober living homes offer the best next step after leaving detox or residential treatment. Sober living homes consist of residences in which several people in recovery from substance abuse live and work on their sobriety. 

These people often receive outpatient care during their time in a sober living home. Choices for this type of care include individual therapy, group therapy, support groups, family therapy, and more. Many programs include holistic treatment options and planning for aftercare. The more treatment a high-functioning alcoholic receives, the better their chances are of staying sober.

Get Help For High-Functioning Alcoholism in Atlanta

Have you reached the point where you realize you are probably a high-functioning alcoholic and don’t know where to turn? You have more resources than you may realize. Creekside in Atlanta offers sober living residences that allow people in recovery a safe place to reside while they work on their sobriety. Our modern, tastefully-decorated homes are gender-specific and located in popular areas of town. We provide you access to outpatient care that helps you stay focused on a healthy new life. 
Visit our admissions page now and see how easy it is to get started.

Benefits of Sober Living in Georgia

When someone with a substance use disorder thinks about getting help, they often think of clinical settings like detox or a rehab facility. What they often overlook is how much a sober living in Georgia can help them embrace life without alcohol or drugs. When people with the same recovery goals share a living space, they can accomplish many things. This is made easier when the sober living homes are modern and luxurious. This is why so many people choose this route to help them stay sober for life. 

What Is Sober Living in Georgia?

Often, people think of sober living just in terms of stereotypes seen in movies and television. They confuse it with halfway houses that often provide only the bare essentials in an unwelcoming environment. Our sober living in Georgia offers so much more than that. Sober living homes provide a safe place for people in recovery to live. Everyone is expected to remain sober. Drug and blood alcohol testing are typically provided to ensure everyone stays on the path to sobriety.

Sober living houses provide a home base for people needing a safe place to temporarily call home. Residents live together in pursuit of common goals to heal themselves. They are usually required to participate in some level of outpatient rehab. This can include regular outpatient, intensive outpatient, and partial hospitalization programs. Other programs focus on topics like family therapy, medication-assisted treatment, and trauma-focused therapy.

The combination of receiving outpatient addiction treatment while living safely among others also in pursuit of getting well provides a powerful way to not just live sober but thrive in that life.

What to Expect From Sober Living Georgia

Some sober living homes provide just the bare essentials. Staying in one might provide some help for addiction but the home itself may not feel welcoming. Creekside believes someone taking advantage of sober living in Georgia should have a beautiful, invigorating home to reside in. With that in mind, we offer the following amenities:

• Homes in upscale, popular Atlanta neighborhoods

• Modern homes decorated by professionals that feel inviting

• A private bedroom with a smart TV for each resident

• Some bedrooms come with an en suite bathroom

• Internet and wifi throughout the house

• Located near restaurants, shopping, and entertainment venues

• Bi-weekly housekeeping

Along with the comforts of a beautiful home and area of the city, we offer even more. Each house has a master’s degree level care manager who assists residents. They help each person get comfortable in the home and determine their recovery goals. Each resident will have several options for outpatient treatment that help them understand their addiction and learn not to relapse. 

The Benefits of Sober Living in Georgia

Attending our sober living in Georgia means taking advantage of several benefits. Each one is designed to provide an effective treatment program that equips all of the residents with what they need to thrive in recovery. 

Some of the benefits include:

Receiving Peer Support: When people who share similar experiences come together in pursuit of a common goal, powerful progress can be made. Residents in sober living all have become sober and plan on staying that way. They understand each other’s emotions and experiences like no one else can. Together, they can provide support and inspire each other to leave their addictions in the dust. 

Gender-Specific Houses: This type of sober living means that each residence houses people of just one gender. People often find a deeper level of comfort when they are surrounded by their own gender. This makes them lean into recovery and make progress more quickly. Additionally, statistics show that gender-specific homes result in less temptation for people to become distracted by romantic or sexual relationships with other residents. 

Outpatient Treatment Options: Sober living homes are about more than just a house. Residents complement their living experience by taking advantage of some of the outpatient options available to them outside the home. This can include individual therapy, group therapy, holistic therapy, and 12-step focused support groups. 

Luxury Amenities: Just because someone is away from their home doesn’t mean they shouldn’t feel equally comfortable. Luxury amenities such as professionally decorated homes in upscale neighborhoods help people feel taken care of and able to relax. Wifi and streaming entertainment options help a person feel at home and offer distractions from the hard work they accomplish each day.

Is Sober Living Right For You?

If someone has put sober living on the table as an option to consider, they may wonder what makes them a good candidate. Sober living may be right for people who:

• Have recently completed detox or residential treatment

• Have completed outpatient treatment but still need support

• Are in or will soon be in outpatient treatment

• Experienced a relapse and are back in recovery

• Do not currently have a stable home environment in which to live

• Want to have a flexible plan for getting treatment but still have downtime in a homelike environment

• Deal with a mental health condition alongside addiction to drugs or alcohol.

  Our sober living admissions teams can help a person decide if this type of care is right for them. An assessment of their situation and treatment goals will determine what their next step should be. 

Find Sober Living in Georgia

Sober living homes offer a special way for someone in recovery from drugs or alcohol to work on healing themselves. Creekside provides sober living in Georgia which makes a difference. Our gender-specific sober living homes offer a luxurious setting for you to focus on sobriety. Access to outpatient options for treatment means this type of care covers a lot of bases. Contact us today and we can answer any questions you have about starting a healthy new life.

How To Help An Alcoholic Spouse

When people fall in love, they want the best for themselves and their partners. They celebrate their love and plan for bright futures. Sadly, for some, the “for better or for worse” part of their vows comes to focus on the latter. If you need to learn how to help an alcoholic spouse, Creekside can give you the answers. We can help your loved ones turn their lives around. Our luxury sober living homes set the stage for comfortable living in an alcohol-free environment. Additionally, your spouse will receive the skilled addiction treatment they need to become sober and stay that way.

How To Help An Alcoholic Spouse: What To Do

You know the person you love has become addicted to alcohol and now you want to know how to help your alcoholic spouse. Start with the things you should do that can help. 

Address the Denial

Someone struggling with alcoholism often finds themselves in denial. They may tell you repeatedly that they are not in trouble. Make sure you do not agree with this assessment. Tell them calmly and as often as needed that you recognize they are in poor health and need help. While they may not embrace the message initially, spouses often hear their partners eventually. It’s important that they know you do not buy into their delusion that everything is fine. 

Help Find Treatment

Offer to find treatment for your spouse. In fact, doing some homework ahead of time allows you to tell them what options are available. When a husband or wife knows that you have cleared the path and can help them immediately enter treatment, it can feel easier to agree to get help. 

Keep The Focus on Yourself

Keep a focus on your own life. Create a routine that allows you to tend to work and family needs. Make sure you take time out for fun activities and spend time with others. Keeping a routine helps your life feel less chaotic. Additionally, modeling how a sober person enjoys structure can help your spouse see what they are missing. 

Self-care is important. Make sure you eat healthy meals and get some exercise. Remember that even if your spouse has not yet sought help for their addiction, you have choices for yourself. Al-Anon offers free support groups for people who have a loved one who is an alcoholic. These meetings allow you a place to vent, be understood, and get great advice from peers.  

How To Help An Alcoholic Spouse: What Not To Do

What not to do is just as important as what you do. First, do not assume you can control your partner’s drinking. At the end of the day, they make the choice to drink. Additionally, only they can make the choice to get help. 

Moral Failing

Do not talk to the person as if their alcoholism is laziness or a moral failure. Alcoholism is a medical disease that takes hold of a person’s brain. Talking to them as if they simply have to use willpower to get better will fall on deaf ears. They need intervention from medically trained professionals who understand the disease of addiction. 

Giving Up

Do not give up and accept that things will never change. Reach out for support for yourself. Present options for treatment to your spouse more than once. Even if you ultimately have to spend time apart, many spouses come around and eventually get treatment. From there, couples can rebuild their relationships. 

Reasoning

Do not try to reason with your spouse when they are inebriated. Confrontational conversations with people who are drunk often do not go well. In addition, in many cases, the person does not remember them. 

Perhaps most importantly, do not stay in an unsafe living situation. If your spouse acts violently or otherwise threatens you, get yourself and others in the house out. Not only does this keep you and your family safe, but it can act as the impetus that spurs someone to finally get alcoholism treatment. 

What Happens in Alcohol Addiction Treatment

Many steps to alcohol addiction treatment exist. Part of learning how to help an alcoholic spouse involves learning what the options are and which ones fit your partner’s needs. Alcohol treatment starts with going through detox. From there, many people enter a residential treatment program, where they live for several weeks or months.

Other people use outpatient rehab in Atlanta, which take place during the day. The person can get the help they need while still living at home. 

A popular option for many involves moving into a sober living home. These homes provide a safe, alcohol-free environment for people to live in while they adjust to life as a sober person. Most individuals attend outpatient treatment while they stay in a sober living home. This can include individual therapy, group therapy, and holistic therapy. 

Sober living homes provide a safe spot to put sobriety into practice. As well, residents enjoy being surrounded by other recovery-focused people who share the goal of leaving alcohol in their past. The homes are often modern, tastefully decorated, and located in popular areas of town. House managers help keep things moving and everyone on the right path.

Learn How To Help an Alcoholic Spouse

It’s hard when someone you love needs help and you don’t know where to turn. Do you need to know how to help an alcoholic spouse? If your partner struggles with an addiction to alcohol, we can help. Creekside in Atlanta and Tampa provides excellent sober living homes for those ready to change their lives. Our residents enjoy upscale living with access to world-class treatment for substance abuse. Contact us now and let us help you reach out to your loved one. We know how to help you get back the person you miss. 

Sober Living Daily Schedule: What Happens During Sober Living?

Are you ready to tackle your addiction to drugs and alcohol but aren’t sure where to start? Maybe you’ve committed to a detox or inpatient plan but want follow-up care that keeps you focused on knowing how to avoid relapse. If so, a sober living house may be what you need. The idea of living in one might not sound familiar, which is why we’re offering a look at a sober living daily schedule. It balances receiving valuable outpatient treatment with having a safe place to live. 

Sober Living Daily Schedules For Therapy

Sober living daily schedules vary depending on the particular sober home. They generally fall into two categories. The first centers around the type of outpatient rehab each resident engages in. How often they attend each session depends on the individual’s needs and goals. Treatment sessions usually include some of the following:

Individual therapy: One-on-one counseling helps people dig deep and figure out the root cause of developing their addiction. From there, they can develop healthy coping skills that help fight the urge to relapse. 

Group therapy: Sometimes held in the home, group therapy can also take place off-site. A counselor leads everyone in learning to embrace their sobriety. It offers each person a chance to support and learn from each other. 

Support Groups: 12-step support groups prove popular because they help millions of people. Other types of support groups work for many, too. Typically free to all, people can continue to attend them after they return home. 

Holistic Therapy: This type of therapy embraces the idea that the body, mind, and spirit connect to one another. Treating one provides progress in all areas. Types of holistic therapy include yoga, acupuncture, massage therapy, art therapy, and equine therapy. 

Sober Living Daily Schedules Within the Home

The second category of sober living daily schedules involves what goes on inside the home. Schedules vary per home, but in general, are set according to the needs of the individual, as well as the group as a whole. In-home schedules can include a set wake-up time and bedtime for all residents. 

Some or all of the meals may occur at scheduled times, too. Additionally, residents may have assigned times to help prepare the meals. Some homes require that residents perform chores. This can include keeping their rooms tidy and contributing to basic housekeeping chores. Activities like cleaning and cooking together help promote camaraderie. This allows residents to get to know each other, promotes bonds, and increases the amount of peer support. 

Many sober living homes have mandatory house meetings, often on a weekly basis. Residents come together and discuss any issues they have. A house manager can help mediate any concerns and assist in problem-solving.  

Knowing that relaxation is key to healing, most sober living homes build free time into their schedules. Therapy and other treatment modalities can be taxing. Knowing there is time to watch a favorite TV show, chat with others, or just relax on their own helps residents recharge. 

For homes that allow visitation from family and friends, it often occurs as part of a schedule. They realize the value of residents getting to spend time with loved ones and update them on their progress. Keeping visits on a schedule helps everyone, including the other residents, know what to expect. This keeps unauthorized or overnight visits that aren’t allowed from happening.

Why Are Sober Living Daily Schedules Important?

Often, during addiction, people become laser-focused on their drug and alcohol consumption. Because of this, they lose the ability to create and maintain a schedule. Sober living daily schedules help each person relearn the art of living by a schedule. This sense of order cuts down on the unfocused time that may result in a person being tempted to use drugs or alcohol. Additionally, when each resident has a schedule, it makes it difficult for one person to engage in dangerous behavior that might result in relapse. A peer community with focused schedules makes everyone more accountable. 

What Is Luxury Sober Living Like?

The goal of sober living homes is to provide a safe living space for people working on their sobriety. Having said that, not all sober houses are created equal. Some offer minimal amenities, often in older homes that may not be in popular parts of town. As an alternative, many people prefer luxury sober living homes. 

These types of sober living homes are typically recently renovated and professionally decorated houses. They don’t feel like a halfway house. Instead, they provide an inviting setting in upscale neighborhoods. Residents can truly feel at home, while also feeling cared for and safe. Each person who stays with us at Creekside gets a shared or private bedroom equipped with a smart TV. Some bedrooms feature an en suite bathroom. 

Updated gourmet kitchens offer a soothing place to enjoy a cup of coffee or a delicious meal with other residents. Other common areas in the home allow for group activities or quiet discussions. Wi-fi service and high-speed internet are usually available throughout the house. Many homes include regular housekeeping. With all these amenities to enjoy, residents find it easier to keep up their sober living daily schedules. 

Sober Living in Atlanta

For a lot of people, moving into a sober living home means getting some much-needed space. You have the room to work on yourself while still enjoying downtime away from the stressors of your home life. Our sober living homes provide luxurious settings designed to be the perfect location for getting sober. We provide gender-specific homes, allowing women and men to live separately. If you’d like more information about sober living, contact Creekside in Atlanta today.

Executive Sober Living: How It Works

Have you decided it’s time to get help for your addiction to alcohol or drugs? If so, a sober living home may be the best fit for what you need. Our executive sober living homes offer treatment while you reside in upscale neighborhoods. Additionally, we provide gender-specific homes. You receive outpatient care that helps you build a strong recovery. Then, you can return home ready to hit the reset button on your life and enjoy lifelong recovery. 

What Happens in Executive Sober Living 

Our sober living homes provide a flexible level of care for those who don’t need 24/7 care but aren’t ready to end treatment. Our guests take part in treatment three or more days per week. The sessions can last either part of the day or the entire day, depending on the person’s needs. Which services each person needs can also fluctuate, depending on their changing needs and the progress they make. 

Treatment includes several types of therapy that prove beneficial for the treatment of addiction to alcohol and drugs. Additionally, they help people learn to manage any accompanying mental health conditions. Types of services include:

• Individual therapy

• Group therapy

• Family therapy

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) 

• Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)

• Outpatient Rehab

• Case Management

When a person isn’t attending treatment, they have different ways to fill their free time. We encourage them to establish schedules; thus, they can work, attend school, and partake in volunteer work. The combination of treatment and putting together a schedule, including social events, helps prepare each person for a healthy, sober life when they leave us. 

Who Qualifies for Executive Sober Living?

Executive sober living homes help people from different walks of life and places in recovery. Our homes help those who have recently completed a type of treatment. This can include a detox stay, residential, or outpatient care. All we ask is the person is committed to staying sober and actively working on their sobriety. We treat those who are working on recovery from alcohol or drug addiction. Additionally, we treat mental illness conditions such as depression, trauma, and anxiety. 

Another thing to consider about if executive sober living is right for someone is the details of their current living situation. Someone who leaves formal treatment may not have a safe home waiting for them. By this, we mean they may have an unstable housing situation or live with someone who has their own substance use disorder. Going home too soon can set someone up to relapse quickly. Taking the time to live in a sober living house can help them build a strong foundation in recovery. Additionally, it provides them time to plan for the right living situation for their return home. 

How Long Does Executive Sober Living Last?

How long a person stays in a sober living home depends on a few factors. The first is the person’s history with addiction, including how long they have struggled with it. The type and number of substances they used are also a consideration. If they need mental health services can also influence the length of their stay. 

Another factor has to do with the progress each person makes. For some, a stay of just a couple of months can lend itself to great progress. For others, staying in executive sober living for several months or a year works better. The house case manager works with each individual to determine what length of time works best for their needs.

The Advantages of Gender-Specific Homes

In previous generations, many sober living homes were co-ed. Men and women lived together and shared their lives and recovery. A more modern approach offers the alternative of staying in gender-specific homes. There are several advantages to this approach, including:

Less Temptation to Engage in Personal Relationships

One of the tenets of staying in a strong early recovery involves not starting a new romantic or sexual relationship. Gender-specific homes help reduce that temptation. This allows guests to keep their focus on recovery and healing.

Ability to Just Be Yourself

Often, men and women feel pressured to pay strict attention to their physical appearance when around each other. Women experience societal pressure to wear makeup, do their hair, and wear dressy or attractive clothing when in the presence of men. Alternatively, many men may feel the need to always look camera-ready in order to impress women. Gender-specific executive sober living homes eliminate this pressure. 

Ability to Open Up Emotionally

Another social pressure involves the one which coaches men to hold in their emotions. As a result, they often find it hard to open up, especially around women. Male-only camaraderie allows a bigger opportunity for men to be honest about their emotions, fears, and past experiences. For women, a gender-specific home can mean important female bonding, which results in an easier time opening up and speaking honestly. 

The Safety Factor

A lot of people can point to past or ongoing physical, sexual, or emotional abuse as a major contributor to their developing a substance use disorder. Women, in particular, find that living in a gender-specific home promotes a sense of safety they need. This proves especially true if the abuse they endured came at the hands of a male.  

Executive Sober Living in Atlanta

When it’s time to seek help for addiction, it may involve leaving home temporarily. Creekside understands that everyone wants to feel at home wherever they are. Because of this, we created executive sober living homes that provide comfort and style. We treat everyone like guests and surround them with the luxury and compassion they deserve. Contact Creekside in Atlanta today and we can answer all your questions. A sober life is just around the corner for you.

Sober Living Options for Mental Health

When someone realizes they need help for addiction, they often don’t know where to start. About half of all who deal with addiction also have at least one diagnosable mental health condition. The person may have considered a sober living house for their addiction but not realized that sober living for mental health is also available. Addressing both addiction and mental illness under one roof helps people make major progress in both areas.

What Is Sober Living For Mental Health?

When someone hears “sober living”, they often think it’s just for people learning to overcome addiction to drugs and alcohol. As a matter of fact, many homes also function as sober living for mental health. Residents of the house all work towards staying sober. Additionally, many also have at least one diagnosable mental illness. For this reason, the homes provide access for everyone to effective help for their mental health.

Most sober living homes have a house manager or other staff that oversees the running of the home. Each person living there is expected to stay sober and focused on their goals. Many homes require residents to attend at least one form of treatment, such as therapy or a support group. These options may take place within the home or off-site. Additionally, homes have rules that each person must follow. This may include things like drug or BAC testing to ensure everyone remains sober. They may also have to adhere to a curfew and participate in household chores.

What Does Sober Living for Mental Health Treat?

Mental illness can come in many different forms. Sober living for mental health homes typically treat all or most of the following:

• Anxiety disorders

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

• Depression

• Bipolar disorder

• Mood disorders

• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

• Schizophrenia

• Trauma-based illnesses

In some cases, treatment allows people to reduce their mental health symptoms. This can include things like experiencing less anxiety or fewer feelings of depression. People can learn to predict triggers for something like a panic attack and know how to stop many of them from the beginning. As well, someone who deals with a trauma-based illness can find ways to reduce or even put a stop to things like flashbacks. 

Who Is a Good Candidate for Sober Living for Mental Health?

Anyone who needs help for mental health and may also be in recovery from addiction can do well in a sober living for mental health home. If a person has not been in treatment before, this type of plan can be a great fit for them. They may be coming straight from detox or from another residential program. 

Alternatively, a person may have previously completed addiction treatment but needs help with their mental health. They often find that a sober living home helps them focus on their mental health needs while still receiving any needed help with sobriety. 

An assessment is performed on potential candidates for a sober living home. Their physical and mental health will be taken into consideration. Together, they can help the individual make a decision about if proceeding with sober living is right for them.

Benefits of Sober Living for Mental Health

Several benefits come from spending time in a sober living mental health home. Since so many residents deal with at least one mental health concern, they can bond with each other over their experiences. Living with people who not only share a goal of staying sober but also learning to manage their mental health helps everyone. They can offer each other support, ideas, and cheerleading. 

Learning to manage a person’s mental health takes time. Being in a sober living in Atlanta provides a lengthy time frame for each person to learn new skills. Doing so makes it easier to put them into practice when they return home. Going back to their homes can be challenging in some ways. When the person has a new skill set for dealing with symptoms of things like depression or anxiety, they are more likely to thrive. 

People stay in sober living homes for different amounts of time. For some, just a month will help a great deal. For others, staying for several months provides the most benefits. Each person works with their treatment professionals to determine how long their stay should be. Additionally, they can decide on any aftercare programs to set up for their return home. These can include things like individual therapy, group therapy, or support groups. 

Last of all, treating both mental health and addiction at the same time saves money. Why go to two different treatment programs and spend extra time in sessions when both issues can be addressed at the same time?

Sober Living for Mental Health in Atlanta

Dealing with mental illness on a daily basis takes a major toll on your life. Sometimes you just want to get away from the daily grind and go somewhere to begin to heal. Creekside’s sober living for mental health program can provide you with that haven. Our residents receive the best of both worlds. We provide access to outpatient rehab treatment for mental health conditions. As a result, you leave our house knowing how to manage mental illness symptoms and enjoy a life of sobriety. Contact Creekside Recovery Residences today and get started on your new life.

What To Expect After Rehab

Recovering from addiction is a lifelong process. The first step in the recovery journey is normally a drug treatment program. While successfully completing a treatment program is a huge first step in the right direction, it does not end there. It is important to understand that treatment is simply one piece of the puzzle and it cannot fully address the habits, lifestyle, and psychological trauma that occurs over the course of an individual’s addiction. Understanding what to expect after drug rehab helps you make the transition into a sober lifestyle easier and aids you in making the proper decisions when creating your aftercare plan. Here at Creekside Recovery Recovery Residences we have put together a guide on What to Expect After Rehab in order to help minimize any fears around your new journey as a sober individual. 

Types of Drug Addiction Treatment

There are many options when it comes to addiction treatment. Normally a step down process is recommended. This is commonly the best option for those suffering with substance abuse issues because it allows them to slowly reintegrate back into society and adjust to their new found lifestyle. The step down process that is frequently suggested is as follows:

• Detox- If someone is physically addicted to a substance, then detox is a necessary first step. Detoxes provide 24/7 medical supervision in order to make the withdrawal process as safe and comfortable as possible.

• Inpatient Treatment- Inpatient treatment allows individuals to reside within a treatment facility while receiving intensive therapy and regular medical supervision. Normally clients will stay between 30-90 days in an inpatient facility. 

• Partial Hospitalization Program- PHP programs may be the next step after residential treatment or may be recommended as an alternative to inpatient treatment. It is all dependent upon the level of supervision and therapeutic intervention that a patient needs. In partial hospitalization programs clients live in affiliated sober living housing and attend the facility several days a week for therapeutic services.

• Intensive Outpatient-Intensive outpatient programs are normally attended by individuals who also live in affiliated sober living housing, or who live at home. IOP clients attend the facility a couple of days a week, either in the morning or at night.

• Outpatient Program-Outpatient programs usually occur in the evenings and are less frequent then IOP programs. Clients will either live at home, or in affiliated sober living housing. Outpatient programs are normally the last suggested level of care in the step down process.

What To Expect After Rehab?

Upon completion of an inpatient treatment program or a partial hospitalization program you will meet with either your therapist or case manager in order to create an aftercare program. This is when your provider will explain to you what to expect after rehab. Normally it is highly suggested that you enter into a sober living recovery residence and continue to attend either a partial hospitalization program, intensive outpatient program, or outpatient program. Sober living is housing in which residents are required to remain abstinent from drugs and alcohol. Sober living houses are especially important while an individual is in early recovery, since they drastically reduce the risk of relapse. It is important to take into account how difficult it is to transition back into society following a drug treatment program. Adjusting to life as a newly sober individual is not an easy process. The more support, stability, and therapeutic services a person has, the more likely they will be able to achieve long-term sobriety.  There are alot of things to adjust once you leave an addiction rehab program. Here are some of the changes you can expect following treatment:

Creating New Routines, Habits, And Schedules

When an individual is in active addiction or alcoholism they often have bad habits, no daily routine, and a schedule that isn’t compatible with life as a productive member of society. Inpatient treatment helps a person begin to form a better lifestyle, but since it is a well supervised environment and is isolated from the outside world it can be easy to fall back into old habits once discharged. Sober living and continued care help to support addicts as they go through the process of changing their lifestyles to begin to adjust back into daily living. 

Coping With Emotions and Triggers

When thinking about what to expect after rehab, it might not come across someone's mind to consider the difficulties they may face with their mental health and emotional stability. It is important to understand that new emotions and triggers will begin to occur during early sobriety. Drugs and alcohol are often used as a coping mechanism for overwhelming emotions. Once sober, addicts' emotions come back and it can be difficult to process them in a healthy manner. Sober living and outpatient programs provide support and therapies in order to help develop new coping skills. It can also surprise people when they start to experience triggers. Triggers are normally people, places, or things that bring up thoughts and/or desires to begin abusing substances again. It is important to properly deal with triggers in order to avoid potential relapses. In sober living and outpatient programs individuals can discuss their triggers with therapists and their peers in order to learn ways to cope with them and eventually overcome them.

Learning Methods To Prevent Relapse 

Avoiding the temptation of relapse is hard. One of the things that should be done while involved in a treatment program is a relapse prevention plan. A therapist should discuss the possibility of relapse when explaining to a client what to expect after rehab. Relapsing is a very real and dangerous possibility for an addict or alcoholic. Having a relapse prevention plan, and more importantly following it, helps reduce the possibility of picking back up substances. Sober living homes and outpatient programs help individuals follow their relapse prevention plans and instill their own structure and accountability procedures to help keep their client’s recovery on the right track. 

The Benefits of Long-Term Sober Living

Transitioning from an addiction treatment program and back into daily living is a difficult process. Long-term sober living programs are designed to make that transition easier. Treatment teaches individuals the skills they need in order to successfully navigate life sober, but it is recommended that you enter into a long-term sober living program while you implement these new tools into your daily routine. Long-term sober living programs greatly not only reduce the risk of relapse post-treatment, but they also have a multitude of other benefits as well. 

What Is Long-Term Sober Living?

Sober living, also called sober homes, are structured programs that offer safe and supportive living environments for individuals who are in early recovery from addiction. The goal of long-term sober living homes is to help support the difficult transition for individuals from treatment back into daily living. It is hard to face life as a sober individual, especially in the beginning. Long-term sober living homes offer the safety and guidance needed in order to set individuals up for the best success possible.

Should You Go To Sober Living Following Treatment?

It can be difficult to determine what the next steps should be following the completion of an addiction treatment program. Sober living homes, also referred to as sober homes and halfway houses, are the ideal option for individuals in early recovery. Returning back to the previous living environment after treatment is not easy, and for some individuals, it is not even possible. The stress of daily living can put someone in a very vulnerable position when they are first beginning their journey with sobriety. Sober living homes provide the two key factors that are vital in an individual successfully achieving long-term recovery which are, accountability and support.

The Benefits of Long-Term Sober Living 

There is a multitude of benefits to living in a sober living program. The residents of long-term sober living homes are provided with support, structure, and safety. Here are some of the ways in which long-term sober living can be helpful for those beginning their recovery journey:

Fellowship Through Peer Support

Isolation is a very common behavior that normally will lead to relapse. Sober living homes encourage residents to offer each other peer support. They have weekly meetings with the residents in which they can go over issues and offer each other support and guidance. The staff of some sober living facilities may also be in recovery themselves, which allows residents to relate and seek support from them as well. 

Safe Living Environment

One of the most beneficial things a sober home has to offer is a safe living environment. Residents of sober living homes are expected to maintain abstinence from drugs and alcohol. Drug testing is used in order to keep clients accountable, and prohibited substances are not allowed on the housing property. These rules keep clients safe from temptation and help prevent relapses. They also allow for early intervention if a relapse does occur. It can be difficult to step outside of the safety of an inpatient setting and back into a society where drugs and alcohol are readily available. Sober livings offer a safe living environment for addicts and alcoholics as they learn to say no to the temptations of the outside world. 

Structured Living

Long-term sober living also offers an extensive amount of structure for residents. Due to the fact that individuals in early recovery are learning to live an entirely different lifestyle, the structure is extremely important. Long-term sober living sets basic rules that allow clients to form healthy habits including curfews, assigned household duties, weekly meetings, and job requirements. These rules are meant to help residents adjust to their new lifestyle and create new, healthy routines. 

Accountability and Guidance

Another benefit to long-term sober living programs is the accountability and guidance that the staff offers clients. In addition, many individuals create unhealthy behavioral patterns such as remaining unemployed and avoiding cleaning up after themselves. Clients are expected to follow the house rules and they are kept accountable through consequences if the rules are broken. It is important for the clients to understand that there are consequences for making the wrong decisions as they begin to navigate life sober. Sober homes also offer clients an exuberant amount of guidance. Residents and staff normally have a wide range of time sober and those who are in early recovery have access to individuals with long-term sobriety in order to seek guidance from them. 

Long-Term Sober Living in Atlanta

At Creekside Recovery Residences, our long-term sober living options go beyond the scope of a thirty-day halfway house or sober living option. We follow each client through the transition process from treatment to sober living, as they acclimate back to the real world. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, mental health issues, or are looking for support, give us a call today at (470) 460-6688. Our dedicated admissions coordinators are ready to assist you back to freedom from addiction.

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Sober Living in Atlanta
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How Does Sober Living Work?

Sober living programs are designed to help individuals struggling with addiction transition from treatment back into independent living. Sober livings encourage long term recovery by offering continued structure and support to residentents as they begin to establish their lives. Today, we answer the questions: how does sober living work, and how do sober living homes help.

How Does Sober Living Work?

Before entering sober transitional living it is important to understand how sober living works. High quality sober living homes offer supervision and structure, mental health treatment, while also supporting independence. At most sober living facilities there are normally some basic and essential rules to keep to ensure the programs safety and effectiveness. 

• Clients must have detoxed from alcohol and/or drugs prior to entering the program.

• Residents are assigned household duties and are expected to complete them weekly.

• Clients are expected to attend all required house meetings.

• General house rules such as abstinence from substances and curfews are expected to be followed.

• There is normally a step down process in which residence have less restrictions the longer they stay.

• The recommendation is normally at least a 90-day commitment.

The Benefits of Sober Living 

Sober living houses and halfway houses offer a multitude of benefits to those seeking long-term recovery. Sober living services go beyond drug and alcohol addiction. They carry over into the residents daily schedule to help implement positive habits that they can continue using long after they move on to fully independent living. Different than an outpatient treatment program, sober living houses provide a drug free living environment alongside inpatient treatment. A halfway house is normally more affordable, which helps individuals save money and take time to establish themselves back into work. Sober living can also help refer clients to jobs, therapeutic services, AA/NA meetings, and other community support. Potentially two of the most important aspects of sober living is guaranteed medical stability and the fellowship of other recovering individuals. The clients have the ability to use each other as supports, encouraging positive outcomes, while tackling the difficult journey of early recovery. 

How To Choose A Sober Living

Choosing the right sober living for you or your loved one can be a very difficult process. There are many sober livings out there, and some are better than others. Here are some important things to look out for when picking the best sober living for you:

• Services that are offered: It is important to take note of the services that are offered at the sober living. Are there therapeutic services available? Accommodations for medical needs? These questions are important to consider.

• Certifications: There are certifications from sober living coalitions and networks such as CARF and NARR. The sober living that you decide to go to should have at least one of these certifications.

• The structure of the program: Sober livings should offer adequate structure for residents. There should be curfews, drug testing, meetings, and a form of supervision for clients. 

• Specialized programs: If you are seeking a particular type of sober living, or are part of a particularly vulnerable population, then it is important to look for a sober living that offers specialized programs that can adequately help you. 

• Size of the program: It is important to consider the size of the program depending on your particular needs.

Is Sober Living Right For You?

If you or your loved one is struggling with an addiction, then sober living can be a great way to help support you through the recovery process. It can be difficult to decide to voluntarily reside somewhere that has rules, such as meetings and curfews, but it is also important to remember that sober living is a temporary step that can help lead to long-term recovery. Sober livings offer the structure and support needed to implement healthy habits while in early recovery. 

Although sober livings are a great option, they are also not the right choice for everyone. Some individuals require a higher level of care, such as detox or residential treatment, before they can transition effectively to a sober home. Once the necessary treatment has been completed it is strongly encouraged that individuals strongly consider going to a sober living. Living in a sober living can help aid the recovery process and set you on the right path to continue moving forward in your recovery journey. 

Sober Living Programs In Atlanta

Creekside Recovery Residences offers safe and welcoming sober living in Atlanta, Georgia. At Creekside we offer a luxury and structured sober living. If you are ready to take the next steps down your path of recovery then contact Creekside Recovery Residences.

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Sober Living vs Halfway Houses: What's The Difference?

People often confuse sober living houses and halfway houses. A sober living facility is a place where an addict or alcoholic goes to get clean. A halfway house is a transitional living facility where an addict or alcoholic lives while he or she gets back on his or her feet.

There are two types of sober living homes. Sober living facilities provide short-term housing and support services for people who are leaving an addiction treatment program. Halfway houses are more "dorm-like" and offer few amenities and less structure.

Read our Sober Living vs Halfway House guide to learn about the differences of each. Here's what you need to know.

Sober Living vs Halfway Houses: The Similarities

Halfway houses and sober living homes share many similarities. Both provide housing and support for those working toward sobriety. Both can also be valuable resources for people who have completed residential treatment, attended outpatient programs, or left incarceration.

Sober Living vs Halfway House: The Differences

There are many different types of sober living homes. Some are associated with drug rehab centers, but some are run by people who specialize in helping addicts stay clean. You need to choose the right type of sober living home for you.

Some halfway houses, on the contrary, are run by government agencies. These homes provide less privacy and comfort than do most sober living homes. The cost is also lower than that of sober living residences. Insurance can cover sober living at certain facilities for those attending an outpatient drug rehab center, making it an affordable option for those who might need help.

Halfway houses are often used by people who have recently been released after serving time in prison. These places are generally not intended for those who have already completed a drug rehab program while in jail. 

Residents of sober living homes can benefit from longer-term stays, having more responsibility, and community support. They also gain peace of mind knowing where they're going to be living after their time is up. This helps them focus on their recovery instead of worrying about where they'll be living afterward.

What is a Sober Living?

A sober living house is a place where people who need help recovering from addiction go to stay. People who want to get clean go voluntarily. There are different types of sober living houses, including faith-based, 12 step, and more.

A sober living residence has strict rules and a zero-tolerance policy for substance possession and use. People who want to get into this type of facility must be clean and drug-free. They also need to attend weekly meetings and follow the rules of the house. Most often, those residing at a sober living house come straight from detox or a residential treatment center.

How Does Sober Living Work?

There are many options for sober living homes that work in a number of ways, so finding the right fit based on your individual requirements is very important. Sober living can occur at the same time as outpatient drug rehab programs or they can occur after completion of an addiction treatment program.

The National Assocation for Recovery Residences defines four different categories of sober living environments, including:

• "Residential" - This option provides 24/7 supervision and support by staff who live in the house.

• "Transitional Living" - This option allows residents to live independently while receiving support services.

• "Outpatient Treatment" - This option provides intensive outpatient care without requiring residency.

• "Independent Living" - This option offers independent living opportunities but does not provide any residential services.

Important: Supervised housing facilities vary, but they usually include counseling and other support services. They are licensed and regulated by state or local authorities. There may be an organizational hierarchy, administrative oversight, and policies and procedures. In some cases, staff is trained and certified. Drug screens are required.

How Sober Living Benefits Recovery

People who grew up in an abusive household may be more likely to abuse drugs or alcohol later in life. Living in a sober living house helps them learn new ways to deal with stress. Returning home after treatment could lead to relapse if they're still surrounded by toxic environments.

Who Can Live In A Halfway House?

Most halfway homes require residents to be clean or sober. Many people who go through rehab have been clean before. Those who are newly sober may still be struggling with addiction. Some halfway houses allow residents to stay even after they've been sober for a long time. Halfway houses also offer support groups and other activities to help residents stay sober, though not to the degree that sober living homes do.

Halfway homes are usually less structured than inpatient programs. You can still work and attend school while living there. However, you must continue working on your recovery by attending AA or NA meetings.

Halfway House Activities

At a halfway house residents may stay there for extended periods while they work on their sobriety or transition back into mainstream society after having been incarcerated. These homes usually help residents find work and task them with chores as part of the requirement for being allowed to stay there. 

Halfway houses are more "dorm like" and crowded and quite a bit more independent than a sober living home so there are typically fewer amenities and less staff.

Sober Living in Atlanta

If you're looking for a sober living home in Atlanta, Georgia, check out Creekside Recovery Residences. At Creekside we offer luxury sober living, accepting individuals who have recently completed or are still enrolled in a treatment recovery program. If you're serious and ready to continue your journey of recovery contact Creekside Recovery Residences or call: 1-470-460-7995

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Sober Living in Atlanta
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What's A Halfway House and What Is It Like?

Halfway houses are a safe place to transition from treatment back into society. They can be a place where memories are made and an empowered life begins. They have helped a lot of people over the years fit back into a healthy lifestyle, free from drug and alcohol use. They are also a place friendships are made and skills are learned.

Read our "What’s A Halfway House” guide to learn more. Once you read this, you'll know what exactly a halfway house is and what to expect to determine if a halfway house or sober living house is right for you.

What’s A Halfway House?

A halfway house is a place where people can stay while they get back on their feet while beginning recovery from alcohol, drugs, or other substances. They're usually located near hospitals and treatment centers. Halfway houses typically help people recover from addiction by providing them with support services such as counseling and job training.

While someone lives in a halfway house, they live in a safe, drug-free environment while readjusting to life out of treatment. Someone can stay in a halfway house for several months or even years. Your needs determine how long you'll be there. Studies show that halfway houses have been proven to help individuals maintain long-term recovery and sobriety. In essence, halfway houses are crucial for those entering the recovery process.

Who Can Live in a Halfway House?

A halfway house is a place where people go after completing drug rehab programs. Halfway houses are usually located near hospitals, colleges, or other places where people go to get help. Most people who stay at halfway houses are recovering addicts who need to stay clean. Some facilities allow residents to continue working while staying there. Others require residents to work full-time. Residents must follow strict rules about what they do and how much they drink or use drugs.

What Kind of People Live in a Halfway House?

Most of the folks who find themselves in a halfway house are addicts and alcoholics who have already completed some kind of treatment program. Some people who are at a halfway house are actually starting their treatment process. They're using it as the first part of a more holistic approach to dealing with their addiction. People stay at a halfway house anywhere between 3-12 months, some longer.

What Should I Expect at a Halfway House?

Halfway houses tend to be less restrictive than traditional treatment programs. They permit residents to attend school, go to work, and even enjoy social functions. Residents are usually required to participate in 12-step meetings, and ongoing counseling, make their homes clean and inviting, and to also contribute to the community in positive meaningful ways.

How Restrictive is a Halfway House?

Most people who are thinking about a halfway house are going to be restricted in some ways. They will need to stay inside the house unless they're visiting with friends or doing something else. They'll need to participate in counseling, meetings, etc. They will need to clean up after themselves. They may be tasked with some communal responsibilities.

Halfway House Rules and Regulations

Halfway houses are places where people go when they need help staying off drugs or abstinent from alcohol. Residents must stay clean, contribute to the upkeep of the house, and avoid fights or violence.

A strict rule set is in place for the members. No stealing or destroying property. Attendance is required at all house meetings and curfews are often set in place. Housemates must be accountable for ongoing work. Independence is achieved when a housemate secures employment and eventually comes to live away from the halfway house environment.

Choosing Your Halfway House Environment

A halfway house environment is not suitable for everyone. Talk to your doctor or therapist about getting into such an environment. Ask others who are in treatment or meetings to recommend you to a facility that provides the services you need. Research and plan ahead before moving into a sober living environment. Don't take this transitional period lightly; it's crucial to your recovery.

Halfway Houses in Atlanta

The best halfway houses offer a safe environment for recovering addicts. They provide a structured schedule, nutritious meals, and access to counseling and job training. Some halfway houses are run by religious organizations, which means they may not accept everyone who applies. At Creekside Recovery, we offer halfway houses and sober living in Atlanta. To find out more about Creekside Recovery Residences and if we’re a fit for your situation, we’re ready to talk. All inquiries and conversations are 100% confidential.

PHP vs IOP: What's The Difference?

PHP stands for Partial Hospitalization Program. This type of addiction program is more intense than an IOP (Intensive Outpatient Program), but less so than a full inpatient or residential treatment program. Compared to IOP (individual outpatient program), partial hospitalization requires more weekly visits and sessions. Here is more insight into PHP vs IOP.

Learn what the best addiction treatment program is for you. Call: 470.391.4603

What Is A PHP Addiction Treatment Center?

A PHP addiction treatment center, also known as a PHP rehab, is a place where people can receive intensive medical help for their substance abuse problems. It’s designed to provide patients with a combination of therapy, medication, and group support that will allow them to overcome their addictions. Patients are usually required to attend daily counseling sessions, participate in 12-step programs, and take part in various other activities that will help them stay clean and sober.

A PHP addiction treatment center is different from a traditional drug rehabilitation facility because it provides intensive care while allowing patients to continue living at home during night time hours. In addition, these centers offer a wide range of services, including individualized therapy, psychiatric evaluation, and family counseling. They may also include a variety of recreational activities like sports, art classes, music lessons, and even cooking classes.

Many people who struggle with alcohol or drugs use PHP addiction treatment centers as a way to get better. However, there are some who choose this type of treatment because they want to avoid the stigma associated with going to a traditional rehab. For example, if someone has been arrested on charges related to their substance abuse problem, they might not feel comfortable admitting that fact to others. Instead, they would prefer to keep their past a secret by enrolling in a PHP addiction treatment center.

[cta icon well] If you have questions or need addiction recovery help, please contact us for help.

What Is an IOP Addiction Treatment Center?

An IOP (Individual Outpatient Program) is similar to a PHP addiction treatment center in many ways. Both types of facilities require patients to live at home during the evening hours, while receiving intensive treatment throughout the day. However, they differ in one important aspect — IOPs do not provide any overnight accommodations. Therefore, most patients must remain at home all night long.

IOPs are often used as a first step coming out of a full PHP addiction treatment program. Usually patients enrolled in an IOP have become confident they can abstain from substance use and begin to rebuild their lives. Many people find themselves struggling when they return home. That’s why IOPs exist — to give them a chance to regain control over their life before moving on to a less comprehensive form of treatment.

Do I Need a PHP or IOP treatment program?

The decision to seek help for your substance abuse problem should be based on what kind of treatment works best for you. While PHP addiction treatment centers are more common, IOPs are just as effective as PHP programs.

If you’re looking to stop drinking or using illegal substances, PHP addiction treatment centers are probably right for you. These facilities provide a safe environment where you can focus solely on getting healthy without having to worry about anything else. You’ll typically spend several months at a PHP addiction treatment center before graduating into a less structured form of treatment.

If you’ve already completed a PHP addiction treatment program but still struggle with your substance abuse issues, an IOP may be the next step. This type of treatment allows you to stay at home and receive intensive support through the day, while also giving you the opportunity to develop coping skills. It’s designed to help you learn how to manage your urges so you can maintain abstinence.

While PHP and IOP addiction treatment options are both available, it’s important to consider which option will work best for you.

How Long Does A PHP Addiction Treatment Take?

Most people who enter PHP addiction treatment programs complete their treatment within 12 weeks. During that time, they attend group therapy sessions, participate in individual counseling, and take part in various other activities designed to help them recover.

At the end of the initial phase, patients graduate into a less intense level of care called Aftercare. There, they continue to meet with counselors and therapists to discuss their progress and get feedback on how to improve their overall wellness.

Aftercare usually lasts between six and nine months. During this period, patients gradually transition back into society and resume their normal routines. They then move onto another stage of treatment if necessary.

What Is The Cost Of PHP Addiction Treatment?

The cost of PHP addiction treatment varies depending on the facility. In general, however, PHP addiction treatment is much cheaper than traditional drug rehab programs. Some facilities offer discounted services, while others charge more than $1,000 per month.

It’s important to remember that PHP addiction treatment isn’t cheap, but it’s far less expensive than traditional rehab. If you don’t qualify for financial aid, you might want to look into PHP addiction treatment centers.

Where Can I Find Help For My Substance Abuse Problem?

There are many different types of substance abuse treatment available. To find out which one is best for you, talk to one of our caring intake specialists or your healthcare provider.

Contact 470.391.4603 today to schedule a free one-on-one private consultation. 

Find PHP vs IOP Georgia Treatment

Finding the right detox and rehab center is crucial for overcoming substance use disorder and living a healthy life free from addiction. At Creekside Recovery we offer both PHP and IOP treatment options. We also offer aftercare programs to help you phase out treatment to rejoin life again.

Who Pays For A Halfway House?

Halfway houses are an important bridge in reaching the goal of healthy sober living in the real world. Treatment, the first step towards recovery is typically covered completely or in part by most insurance plans. Intensive medical and psychological treatment involving professionals to care for the addict are acceptable expenses for insurance companies to reimburse. However, who pays for a halfway house? Sober livings and halfway houses are typically a form of treatment and therefore is not normally covered by insurance plans. Investigate your insurance plan thoroughly as insurance companies change their acceptable expenses from time to time. In addition, there may be a service covered in continuing treatment that you need to be aware of.

What Exactly is a Halfway House?

The concept of a halfway house is to offer a supportive and understanding environment for those who are fresh out of treatment but need to make a gradual step up into a sober living environment. Presently, a remote possibility still exists for coverage in some insurance plans if medical necessity can be proven. Treatment centers can help in making decisions concerning this transition out of treatment into a sober living facility and aid in reviewing insurance plans for coverage details.

There may be grants, funds, or assistance through The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration available in certain sober living facilities. You will need to inquire about any special assistance programs that might be available when you search for a sober living facility. It is possible that the sober living facility could offer scholarships and self-pay discounts. With insurance unable to pay for sober living, the family could be of help in assisting the recovering addict with expenses or the addict could look at prior savings to help pay for the program. 

Without Insurance Coverage – Who Pays for A Halfway House?

The reality of the situation is that the purpose of participating in a sober living environment or halfway house is gaining strength and responsibility to perform the essential elements in life needed to survive sober. Learning how to maintain employment, pay bills and make positive strides in using healthy coping mechanisms while being supported by others who are struggling to do the same can prove the cost of sober living to be worthwhile. Sober living facilities and halfway houses typically have case management programs to help addicts form healthy and positive lifestyle structure, which is needed to prevent relapse. In addition, earning how to make good decisions and form healthy social relationships in this environment builds self-confidence. 

Although insurance does not usually pay for sober living facilities or halfway houses; it does continue to pay for outpatient drug rehab, required for the recovering addict as well as medications prescribed. Management in the sober living facility is often aware of educational opportunities as well as employment openings that could be a match for the needs of the residents. Learning to make a budget, getting to work and appointments on time and performing required chores within the household are all tasks designed to move the residents on to independent living in the real world after the sober living facility. Sober living facilities are a source of building personal accountability in recovery.

Factors to Consider When Paying For A Halfway House

Before making your decision to enter a halfway house – ask about the following factors to help determine the costs of your decision:

• The location of the home

• Private rooms or shared rooms

• What is the rent?

• What utilities will you be responsible to pay

• How long is the usual stay?

• What amenities are included?

• Does the home have a licensed therapist on site?

• Full check of insurance coverage to find out what benefits are covered

Halfway Houses Offer a Supportive Personal Environment

It is unfortunate that insurance does not normally pay for sober living facilities but the advantages you will gain in living in a supportive environment is an experience that can help prevent relapse. Participating in twelve-step programs with your housemates and forming positive healthy coping mechanisms in social situations is vital knowledge. Facilities often hold mandatory house meetings to review the household chores and answer residents' concerns. Helping others who are struggling to maintain a sober lifestyle is helpful to your own recovery. 

If you believe that a sober living facility could be the perfect place for you in your recovery journey, do not let the fact that insurance does not pay for this benefit hold you back. Being open before leaving treatment when you are making the decisions about entering a sober living environment will help your treatment team address your fears and concerns. Living in a sober living facility can still be a successful option in your recovery journey. 

Find Healing at Our Halfway House in Atlanta

Although insurance may not cover the costs of sober living – the sober living option proves to be successful for less chance of relapse and success in the next venture of living independently in a healthy and positive lifestyle once time in sober living is completed. If you need help in finding out the benefits your insurance offers – seek help with your treatment counselor. Creekside Recovery Residences offer halfway house and sober living options for both men and women in the Atlanta area. You can contact us with any questions you may have! We have trained professionals who can help you with your options.

How Can I Tell If My Son is Using Drugs?

For many families, drug abuse is impacting their young adult children on a number of troubling levels. Studies show that males are more likely than females to use illicit drugs (such as opioids, meth, cocaine, etc.), so if you are a parent of a young adult son, you might be concerned that they will go down the wrong path.

According to the Monitoring the Future Survey conducted by the University of Michigan and funded by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), rates of illicit drug use by today’s youth have declined from 2020 to 2021.

While that is certainly welcomed the news, it does not mean that drug abuse is something of the past. You might even suspect that they have already ventured down this path, but just aren’t sure. You are likely asking yourself, “how can I tell if my son is using drugs?” on a regular basis. Thankfully, there are several signs and symptoms to watch for so that your question can be answered. 

How Can I Tell If My Son is Using Drugs?

If you are wondering, “how can I tell if my son is using drugs?”, know that you are not alone. Millions of parents have similar thoughts and concerns, especially considering drug use is something that frequently occurs in kids of this age range. If you are worried about your son and if he is using drugs or not, there are many things that you can look for. 

Extreme Mood Swings

Everyone knows that teenagers can have some pretty big mood swings. All of this is normal due to hormones and related stressors. But, if your son is using drugs, these mood swings will be more intense, occur more frequently, and sometimes seem to appear out of the blue. 

Beginning to Hang Out with the ‘Wrong Crowd”

One of the tell-tale signs that young adults are using drugs is because they start hanging out with the “wrong crowd”. Your son may have started developing relationships with other kids who get in trouble often, use drugs, or struggle at school. They may even abandon the friends they used to have in an effort to spend more time with these kids instead. You may notice him adopting behaviors that are reflective of the company he keeps, including drug use.

Social Isolation

Of course, many young adults are going to hole themselves up in their rooms from time to time. But if you notice that your son is isolating himself regularly, there may be something more going on. Young adults who abuse drugs often isolate themselves from others in an effort to continue using or to hide their use. They may even come home from being out and immediately go to their rooms because they do not want their parents to see them under the influence

Physical Changes

If you are still asking yourself, “how can I tell if my son is using drugs?”, then one thing to look at is your son’s physical appearance. Drugs often cause a decline in personal hygiene and weight loss. Additionally, problems sleeping can create bags under the eyes and an overall pasty appearance. Keep an eye out for burns on the fingers or hands, signs of self-harm such as cuts and wounds, and what your son is wearing. It is a common practice for those using drugs intravenously to wear long-sleeve shirts (even in hot weather) to cover up their track marks. 

The most important thing you can do in order to tell if your son is using drugs or not is to be as informed as possible about what to look for. But considering these signs, you are already on your way. 

Why Do Young Adults Use Drugs?

Young adults are undoubtedly more likely to experiment with drugs than other groups of individuals, especially considering it is something they have never done before. The curiosity of it certainly serves as one of the most common reasons why kids use drugs, but there is much more to it than just that.

Young adults use drugs for a number of reasons, including, but not limited to, the following:

• Peer pressure - Young adults are no stranger to peer pressure, as everyone experiences it during their formative years. Many young adults find themselves experimenting with drugs because someone in school offered it to them and they don’t want to see uncool or they are being teased into using.

• Academic stress - Many young adults struggle with academics, whether they are striving for perfect grades or having difficulty with their schoolwork. The stress that can come from tests, pop quizzes, homework assignments, and more can be overwhelming for a teenager who is not equipped with the right skills to manage this stress, potentially leading to drug use as a means of relaxation.

• Problems at home - Whether one’s parents are getting a divorce, a sibling has an untreated mental health disorder, or there is chaos in the home because of financial reasons, problems at home can be a trigger to use drugs for teens. 

These are just some of the reasons why young adults may become more inclined to use drugs, however they are not the only reasons. Therefore, it is critical to be able to determine if your adult child is using drugs or not so that you can be prepared to help.

Sober Living in Georgia

At Creekside, we understand how difficult it can be for anyone to have an addiction, never mind younger individuals. We also understand that there is a light at the end of the tunnel and that with our help, your son can get there. Our sober living for men can help young men reclaim and renew themselves to create better futures.

If you’ve asked yourself, “can I tell if my son is using drugs,” contact us right now. Our team of professionals will work closely with you to develop an appropriate treatment plan designed to help your son recover as best as possible.

Do not wait any longer. Call us at 470.391.4603 to get more information on how Creekside Recovery Residences can help your son. 

How to Find A Local Sober Living Home

When you have completed an addiction treatment program via a residential program, an intensive outpatient program, or any other level of care, it does not mean that your work is done. Learning how to live sober is a lifelong process and it can take a great deal of effort. Luckily, as time passes, navigating sobriety becomes easier. In the meantime, however, you might still feel like you need that extra helping hand of support prior to fully immersing yourself back into your daily life. A living environment that is chaotic, contains drugs and alcohol, and is unstable will not be suitable for an individual who is just learning how to navigate life sober. If this is the case, you may want to consider how local sober living homes can benefit you.

It is important to know what to look for in a local sober living home before deciding which one is right for you. Here at Creekside Recovery Residences we have put together a guide on what to look for in a local sober living home in order to help make the process of finding housing after treatment as easy as possible for you or your loved one.

What is a Local Sober Living Home?

Sober living homes bridge the gap between the end of a treatment program and independent living. Sober livings offer drug and alcohol-free housing in order to provide a stable, safe, and supportive to those who are in early recovery. Sober living homes are not considered to be a formal treatment program. These homes are not funded by the government and are non-reimbursable under health insurance plans, therefore they are not under the same supervision and do not require the same type of licensing that formal treatment facilities must abide by. Most sober living homes promote a 12-step based model of recovery. This means that residents are normally required to attend peer support meetings in addition to maintaining employment and following the house rules. Most sober living homes do not have a time constraint around how long individuals can reside in them, but it is recommended that residents should make a commitment of at least three to six months.

Sober living homes are designed to give individuals the structure and guidance that they continue to need as they build on their sobriety. These individuals no longer need as strong of a focus on care as they received in their addiction treatment program, but can still benefit from professional presence.

Why Should Someone Enter Into A Local Sober Living Home?

It is a common misconception that the transition from an alcohol and drug treatment program back into daily living will be relatively easy. Unfortunately, learning how to live a sober life comes with a multitude of challenges. While inpatient treatment prepares people as much as possible, it is still a difficult process to implement healthy new habits, lifestyle changes, and relationships. Sober living homes make that transition easier, and therefore greatly reduce the risk of relapse. Some of the beneficial reasons someone should enter into a sober living home include:

• A drug and alcohol-free living environment

• Accountability through house rules and drug testing

• Case management services

• Peer support 

• Access to community support services

• Structure 

• Supervision 

It is important to understand that sober living homes exponentially benefit individuals who are early in their recovery journey, but it is also important to know that not every sober living home may be the right fit for you. Unfortunately, due to the lack of regulation of sober living residences, they are not all required to offer the level of support that is necessary for success in sobriety. Understanding what to look for in a local sober living home helps you avoid choosing a residence that may not offer the care and support either you or your loved one need.

What to Look For in Local Sober Living Homes

If you have completed addiction treatment programming, you may be looking at what your next steps will be. Depending on where you live, you may be able to choose from some local sober living homes in your area. Making choices like these can be extremely difficult, especially if you are unaware of what to be looking for. But, with the right information, you can begin to sort through local sober living homes and find one that meets your needs. 

Location 

There are sober living homes in all types of places. When you are making your decision on which local sober living homes you want to choose from, consider where they are located. It is always a benefit if you can find a sober living house that is not surrounded by noise and chaos, as peace and quiet is conducive to recovery. Also, you may want to attend one of the local sober living homes in your area so that you can continue to work, go to school, and/or see family. Conversely, you may want to find a sober living home that is out of town so that you can continue to work on developing your fresh, new start without distractions.

Affordability

You are likely aware of what you may expect when looking at costs of local sober living homes if you have already participated in an addiction treatment program. Sober living homes cost money, but that does not mean that you have to break the bank to live in one. You may be able to obtain partial or full coverage from your insurance company depending on your plan. You may also be able to figure out funding through other methods outside your insurance. Either way, know that you do not need to pay an arm and a leg for good sober living care. 

Structure and Rules

All local sober living homes should have clear rules and structure in the home for all residents to follow. Rules should always include keeping the home free and clear of any and all mind-altering substances. There should be expectations, such as being back home by a certain time of night and upholding household responsibilities. Additionally, good local sober living homes tend to offer counseling sessions to help keep residents connected and focused on recovery. 

Every sober living home is unique in its own way but these are some of the key factors when considering what to look for in a local sober living home. If the sober living program offers the services listed before it is most likely a reputable and safe residence. Once you’ve found a sober living home that look like the right fit you can call them and learn more about their programs and schedule a tour. 

Ensuring You are Choosing the Best Local Sober Living Homes

While there are a plethora of exceptional local sober living homes, there are also some that do not fully abide by the expected standards. In order to avoid sober living homes like these, it is important to be careful of sober living homes who:

• Tell you there is no cost for care or offer to pay you to live at their home

• Does not have a clear set of rules for residents to follow

• Show little to no interest in the upkeep of the home

• Hires staff members who are not qualified

• Does not prohibit the use of drugs or alcohol 

There are many options when it comes to local sober living homes, but you can weed out the ones that are not credible simply by asking questions and taking a look around for yourself. 

Sober Living in Georgia

The road to recovery is not always the easiest, but with the right supports put in place, you can solidify yourself in your sobriety. If you want to learn more about sober living homes, contact us right now by calling 470.391.4603 or visit our website to learn more. Our team of professionals is dedicated to helping you achieve your recovery goals so that you can start living a happier, healthier life free from the struggles of active addiction.

What is a Vivitrol Shot and How Does It Work?

Opioid addiction affects roughly 15 million people worldwide. This number does not take into account the millions of friends, family, and loved ones who experience significant impacts from this disease, too. When opioid addiction is occurring within a person’s life, everyone and everything around them can suffer tremendously. The same goes for those who are addicted to alcohol. While opioid addiction is certainly in the forefront of several worldwide conversations, alcoholism affects approximately 25 times more people than opioids, as 380 million people nationwide experience this substance use disorder. In order to combat these ever-growing numbers, a handful of treatments have been developed and implemented in those who have reached out for help for opioid or alcohol addiction. One of the lesser-known forms of treatment for both opioid and alcohol addiction is a shot known as Vivitrol. So, what is a Vivitrol shot and what does it do?

What is a Vivitrol Shot?

So, what exactly is a Vivitrol shot? A Vivitrol shot is an injectable medication that is designed to help reduce cravings for continued opioid use and treat alcohol dependence. It is an extended-release medication that lasts for 30 days, therefore Vivitrol patients only need to get one shot each month for the duration of time they are taking it. Individuals who have incorporated Vivitrol into their overall treatment plan will have their Vivitrol shot administered to them by a healthcare provider in an outpatient setting. Known generically as naltrexone, Vivitrol works to block the effects of opioids and alcohol in the brain so that cravings and dependence can be addressed effectively. 

How Does a Vivitrol Shot Work?

What is a Vivitrol shot and how does it work? It might seem simple at first glance, but there is a much more complex process that evolves when Vivitrol is being consumed. 

When a Vivitrol shot is administered, this extended-release medication makes its way to the brain, where the majority of its work will be done. Vivitrol binds to the opioid receptors in the brain, which are part of the endogenous system. This system is responsible for feelings of reward and regulating pain, as well as addictive behavior. When opioids or alcohol are being abused, these substances bind the opioid receptors which then send rewarding signals throughout the body. When this action continues to occur through opioid or alcohol abuse, the brain begins to require the presence of either substance in order to keep a person from going into withdrawal. When taking Vivitrol shots, naltrexone binds to the opioids receptors, producing the same signals but not causing harm when doing so. 

It is recommended that individuals who take Vivitrol do so for at least three full months, as studies show that it is most effective after that point. Individuals will work with their healthcare providers to determine how long they should be taking Vivitrol, as each and every person is unique and has their own personal needs in recovery. 

Side Effects of a Vivitrol Shot

Vivitrol shots are not only extremely effective, but also safe for use. This medication is FDA-approved and has helped countless individuals succeed in their recovery. However, as with any medication, there are some side effects that can develop in those who receive Vivitrol shots. 

The most significant potential side effect of a Vivitrol shot is the risk of overdose. Vivitrol works to block the opioid receptors in the brain. Therefore, if someone uses opioids while on Vivitrol, it is possible that they may take more than they normally would in an effort to get the sensation of being high because those receptors are blocked. Additional side effects of the Vivitrol shot can include:

• Nausea

• Dizziness

• Headache

• Vomiting

• Cold symptoms

• Skin rash

• Chest pain

• Depressed mood

Who Should Not Get a Vivitrol Shot?

Just because Vivitrol is an FDA-approved medication does not mean that it is appropriate for everyone who is recovering from alcohol or opioid addiction. You should not get a Vivitrol shot if you are:

• Still drinking alcohol or abusing opioids

• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms

• Allergic to naloxone

Consult with your healthcare provider before you get a Vivitrol shot if you have a history of liver problems, blood conditions, or kidney issues. For female individuals, be sure to tell your provider if you are pregnant, planning on getting pregnant, or breastfeeding before receiving a Vivitrol shot.

Sober Living in Georgia

Living with an alcohol or opioid addiction is extremely painful, especially when the addiction continues. The most important thing a person can do when dealing with this disease is to ask for help. Simply by reaching out, a person can take one vital step towards recovery and away from the confines of active addiction.

If you are struggling with an addiction to opioids or alcohol, do not waste any more time. Contact us right now to get started on your own journey towards recovery. Our team of compassionate, experienced professionals is dedicated to helping you heal from addiction mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually and our treatment programming offers Vivitrol education and administration.

Do not hesitate. Call us at 470.391.4603 to speak with one of our admissions counselors and to get started on your new tomorrow. 

Georgia Substance Abuse Statistics and Drug Use

For over a decade now, the entire United States has experienced some of the worst drug abuse in its history. In 2011, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) declared the abuse of and addiction to opioids as being a “pandemic.” Today, that same pandemic is occurring, only now it has reached even more severe levels, forcing it to be referred to as the “opioid crisis.” About 130 Americans are dying each and every day from opioid-related overdoses, nevermind any other type of drug overdoses. Georgia substance abuse statistics are on the rise. While they are certainly not exempt from the presence and impacts of the opioid crisis, they continue to face challenges with other illicit drugs. 

Georgia Substance Abuse Statistics

Methamphetamines Are the Most Widely Abused Drugs in Georgia

According to recent data provided by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI), methamphetamines claim more lives in the Peach State than any other drug, including opioids. In 2018, approximately 1,890 meth cases were turned over to the GBI lab. Following on the heels of these cases were cocaine with 891 cases, alprazolam (Xanax) with 201 cases, oxycodone with 196 cases, and heroin with 175 cases. 

Methamphetamines are stimulant substances that can be homemade and are usually consumed via injection. The Deep South is home to countless meth labs, where individuals concoct meth by using several toxic ingredients such as battery fluid, paint thinner, and acetone, as well as the over-the-counter medication pseudoephedrine. Meth is highly addictive and is also extremely corrosive to the body -- both inside and out. Abusing meth for long periods of time can lead to issues such as brittle bones, chronic skin sores, and permanent brain damage. 

Georgia Has a Close Relationship with Cocaine Abuse and Addiction

Prior to meth taking over as the most abused mind-altering substance in Georgia, cocaine held that very title. In Atlanta, cocaine abuse and addiction has run rampant for years. Part of the reason for this is because Georgia remains one of the most drug trafficked states in America, meaning that residents have easy access to large amounts of this particular drug. However, the rate of cocaine abuse in the capital of Georgia has slowly lessened, as more people have enrolled in treatment programs for cocaine addiction over the past 10 years than ever before in the area.

Cocaine, like meth, is also an illicit stimulant substance. When people consume it, they get a rush of energy that lasts only for a short period of time. When the high wears off, users can become agitated and uncomfortable, causing them to use again and again to prevent those feelings. Because cocaine is so addictive and is known for its back-to-back use, it has led to countless overdoses in Georgia. In fact, from 2015-2016, overdose deaths involving a combination of meth and cocaine in Georgia spiked. Research shows that the abuse of these drugs in particular have claimed more lives than HIV/AIDS during its height in the area.

Opioids and Benzos Are Heavily Abused in Georgia

Just because rates of meth and cocaine abuse are the highest in the state, that does not mean that other dangerous substances are being abused, too. Opioids live oxycodone, fentanyl, and hydrocodone are abused at distressing rates. These Georgia substance abuse statistics are alarming: In 2018, overdose deaths involving heroin increased to 2.9 per every 100,000 persons in Georgia. More than 60% of all drug overdose deaths among Georgians involved opioids in that same year. 

Similar to other areas of the country, Georgians are exposed to high levels of prescription painkillers via prescribing providers working in the state. Unfortunately, many prescribing professionals continue to prescribe opioids at astonishingly high rates, leading to more pills than needed in the hands of residents. In 2018, there were 63.2 opioid prescriptions written for every 100 persons in Georgia. The national average of opioid prescriptions per 100 people is 51.4, showing a higher incidence rate in the Peach State than in the country on the whole. 

But opioids are not to blame for all of the complications the state of Georgia faces as a result of substance abuse. Benzodiazepines, commonly called “benzos”, have also ruined the lives of many. Xanax, Klonopin, and Ativan are just some benzodiazepines that have made their way into the mainstream due to overprescription by providers. They are also readily available because more people than ever before are experiencing symptoms of anxiety disorders, prompting the prescription of these medications, contributing to higher substance abuse statistics in the state of Georgia. When abused, benzos can produce a pleasant sense of detachment, relaxation, and euphoria, which is what most people who abuse these drugs seek to obtain. Like opioids, benzos are highly addictive and can be extremely difficult to stop using. As a result, many people continue to abuse them or lose their lives to them. 

Luxury Sober Living in Georgia

Dealing with an addiction on your own can be isolating and frightening. If you are struggling with an addiction to meth, cocaine, opioids, or any other addictive substance, reach out to us right now. At Creekside Recovery Residences our sober living for men, sober living for women, and luxury sober living backed with outpatient programming can show you how to overcome challenges associated with your active addiction so that you can begin living a happier, more productive life. Call us today at 470.391.4603