Tag: sober home

Woman Pleads Guilty To Killing Sober Home Roommate

The convicted woman believed that her roommate had told on her for being drunk during her sober home stay.

A Minnesota woman pled guilty to drunkenly murdering her roommate at a sober living facility, because she thought the woman had reported her for being drunk and she would get kicked out of the facility.

Donna M. Bastyr, 47, killed Corrine L. Gibbs, 69, in May 2018, according to The Star Tribune. Early reporting by the paper said that Gibbs was found dead at about 8 p.m. by the women’s third roommate. She had been severely beaten and had an electrical chord tied around her neck. She had broken ribs, and a dumbbell and bowl nearby were covered with blood.

Police spoke to a man who Bastyr had been out with the day of the murder. The man said that she was “extremely intoxicated,” and that Bastyr had said that Gibbs “was ‘going to get hers.’ ” The man said that when he was with Bastyr later that day, she admitted to the murder.

The man disclosed that Bastyr said Gibbs “had reported [her] for drinking at the sober house and … believed she was going to get kicked out of the program,” police documents said.

On Sept. 11, Bastyr will be sentenced for the murder. She is facing 23 to 32½ years in prison, but because of time she has already served she will likely be in prison for 14 to 21 years, the paper reported.

Unregulated Industry

Gibbs’ death highlights the dangers of the sober home industry, which is almost entirely unregulated. Recently, bones were found at a sober home in Massachusetts. They were later identified as belonging to Clifford Bates, a resident at the home who had gone missing the year before. Bate’s family said that it was unacceptable that the home hadn’t conducted a more thorough search for him.

“While we accept his death, we never, ever thought he would be found at Lakeshore [the sober living home], a fenced-in property of less than half an acre!!” Bates’ family said in a statement. “That part makes no sense. It makes us ill, angry, and we can’t shake it from our minds.”

Brian Palmucci, a city councilor in Quincy, Massachusetts, who has advocated for better oversight of sober homes in the state, said that the industry needs more oversight so that people trying to get sober are not put in dangerous situations.

“It’s a legal loophole that costs lives,” said Brian Palmucci, city councilor in Quincy, Massachusetts, who has advocated for better oversight of sober homes. “We have these charlatans who are taking advantage of the opioid crisis to get rich.”

View the original article at thefix.com

15 August 2019
Sober Housing Options in Florida
ARTICLE OVERVIEW: Sober homes can help you establish routines in addiction recovery. They can be the bridge between treatment and daily life. But, how can you find a licensed sober home in Florida? What are the regulations in the state? We answer here.

TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Definitions

To begin with, what is a sober home? In general, sober homes in Florida consist of communities of people who agree to live together in a drug-free environment. Sober living is NOT drug treatment. A drug treatment facility is much more proactive and offers medical treatment, so it must be licensed.

Under Florida law, a sober home is a place for recovering addicts to live. This type of housing operates under a typical landlord-tenant arrangement. The resident pays rent and the landlord provides a place to live … but the landlord does not provide actual addiction treatment.

[banner variant=”article-1″]

There are three basic types of housing in Florida:

Sober Living

These houses are stable, supportive, and drug-free living environments for people who want to maintain their sobriety. Most sober living houses offer more than just a transitional period. They provide individualized recovery plans that allows residents to work on their own program. Based on peer support, these houses will help you become self-supportive. It is not necessary to have completed a treatment program, but it is expected that you support yourself, pay rent, and buy food. Moreover, some sober houses will encourage you to work, or to seek work. There is no limitation for the length of your stay.

Halfway Houses

[banner variant=”article-2″]

Halfway houses provide a safe and drug-free environment, but the main requirement for stay is that residents must have already completed or are actively enrolled in a treatment program. Usually, these houses are also funded by the government. Many residents are court-ordered to remain there. Drug testing is mandatory when you leave the house overnight. Also, residents may be randomly drug tested. Halfway houses should have 24-hour staff service which may include a clinical addiction treatment team. Generally, the maximum length of your stay in a halfway house is 12 months with a structured and rigorous program.

¾ Houses

[banner variant=”sidebar-1″]

A ¾ house is a drug-free living house similar to halfway house. The main difference is that ¾ house is less structured and with not so rigorous control. It is a type of step down in supervision. Generally, the curfews are later, and you will have the possibility to go to school or work.

[banner variant=”sidebar-3″]

House Rules

The rules in a sober house vary, but they are some general rules that apply to most of the houses. Here are some of the most common house rules you’ll find a sober home in Florida.

1. No alcohol or drug possession or use is allowed on or off the premises. To monitor compliance, staff can request drug testing for residents, often randomly, and discharge someone who refuses to comply.

2. No guests or visitors are allowed in the house without staff consent. Overnight guests are not allowed.

3. Residents must complete daily chores and adhere to the house curfew.

4. Residents must attend one weekly household meeting as well as self-help meetings daily.

5. Residents must be employed as soon as possible and devote several hours per day to the search.

[banner variant=”article-5″]

6. Residents may not borrow money from others. Stealing results in immediate removal.

7. Many houses do not allow pets.

8. You must pay your rent and any other fees on time.

9. You should keep mental health and medical appointments on time and take medications as prescribed.

10. You are allowed to smoke only in designated smoking areas.

11. Many houses allow a 48-hour overnight pass once a month, but you need to request this in advance and then submit a drug test sample upon return.

12. Fighting and gambling are not allowed.

What Sober Living is Really Like

Living in a sober house after rehab is a challenge. You’ll live with people you’ve never met before who can be very different than you. You’ll need to comply with a strict set of rules. Believe it or not, these rules will help you maintain your sobriety. The idea is that you need rules at the beginning to return to everyday life. So, what’s a typical day like?

In a sober home, everybody wakes up around the same time. The mornings are reserved for daily chores such as making your bed, cleaning your room and the shared bathroom, or helping with breakfast. After finishing with the morning routine, there may be a house meeting to assign duties for the residents. Those who have a job will go to work, while the others can search for employment.

During the day, some residents may have a counseling sessions outside of the home, others may need to perform community service. Usually, the evenings are reserved for a support group session, social activities, and dinner. At night, there is time for reading, or watching TV. Everyone usually goes to bed around the same time, or lights out is around midnight

Despite the fact that these rules may seem strict, there are quite effective to keep you on track with your recovery. A six-months study published in the Journal of Psychoactive Drugs showed that 40% of the participants stayed sober during the 6 months period in the sober home. [1]

Here is a testimonial about living in a sober home:

“Now I no longer live to use. I live with a real purpose and ministry. I live to show others by example that “birds of a feather” can learn to live productive lives and come back from living hell by 70 sticking together. YES I go to meetings. YES I have a sponsor, and YES I am working the steps. BUT – Oxford House was the missing piece to the puzzle that saved my life and for that I am eternally grateful. The funny thing is, Oxford House has become a religious experience for me. I never thought that I would once again find a real purpose for living. Thanks to Oxford House, I am now fulfilling my purpose” Xavier’s Story [2]

Finding a Sober Home

Living in a sober home can bring you many benefits on learning how to live a sober life, and how to avoid triggers. But where you can find a sober home?

1. Ask for a referral from your treatment facility.

Usually, treatment centers are connected with sober houses or offer living in a sober house as part of their aftercare service. Speak with your case manager about options BEFORE you leave treatment. You’ll want to be sure that there is room in a sober home and that they will be ready for you when you arrive RIGHT AFTER TREATMENT.

2. Ask for a referral from a mental health professionals or center.

Most mental health centers in the state of Floridapost flyers for sober homes or have connections with sober households. Speak with an administrative person at a mental health center. Or, connect with a psychologist or counselor for a referral.

3. Visit the National Alliance for Recovery Residences.

This is a non-profit organization dedicated to support people in recovery by helping them access to quality sober homes.[3] Check the website listings for sober homes by city in Florida.

4. Check out a list of Certified Recovery Residences

Finding a good sober home is of huge importance since it has the power to shape your path in recovery. Here is a list of some useful tips you may consider before choosing your future home. [4] :
- Be sure that you understand the house rules.
- Check out the testimonials from people who lived there.
- Find a house that is located near your work and counseling.
- Try to find a home with people who are 6+ months sober.
Laws

There are specific laws in Florida that regulate the operations of sober homes. Additionally, some federal laws govern how sober housing should be provide throughout the U.S. Here is a summary of the most important state and federal laws and their main principles.

H.R.4684, Ensuring Access to Quality Sober Living Act of 2018

SUMMARY: This law requires that SAMHSA publish best practices for operating sober houses, and to provide technical assistance to adopt those practices.

House Bill 807, CS/CS/HB 807: Practices of Substance Abuse Service Providers

SUMMARY: This law authorizes Office of Statewide Prosecution to investigate and prosecute offenders to patients, and to increase penalties for operating without proper license. Moreover, it requires that the Department of Children and Families, DCF, check out owners, directors, CFOs, and clinical supervisors of substance abuse service providers.

The Americans with Disabilities Act
The Federal Fair Housing Act (particularly its 1988 amendments)

SUMMARY: People in recovery from substance abuse disorders are considered “disabled” under these laws. The latter law specifically prohibits discrimination in the sale or rental of housing, or to otherwise make unavailable or deny a dwelling to any buyer or renter because of a handicap. It requires governments to make “reasonable accommodations” to preclude such discrimination.

SAMHSA Block Grants for prevention and treatment of substance abuse
42 U.S.C. § 300x-25 AND 45 C.F.R. § 96.129

SUMMARY: The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), administers two federal health care grants for SUD prevention and treatment that states may use to establish recovery homes and for related activities. First, under its Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment block grant, SAMHSA makes at least $100,000 available annually to each state to provide loans to organizations seeking to establish recovery homes. Second, states have discretion to use SAMHSA funding available under a 2-year grant for 2017 and 2018 primarily for opioid use disorder treatment services, to establish recovery homes or for recovery housing-related activities.

NOTE: Florida SB 582 (2014) required all sober houses to register with the state’s Department of Children and Families and provided a criminal penalty for operating an unregistered sober house. The bill died in committee.

FL State Sober Home Statistics

The Sunshine State doesn’t not require license for recovery residences, but there voluntary certification is described by a law called the Florida Statute 397.487. [5]Currently, there are 392 certified recovery residences in the Florida Association of Recovery Residences. [6]

This law states that a person who deals with addiction issues has a higher success rate of achieving long-lasting recovery when they have the opportunity to build a stronger foundation by living in a recovery residence after completing treatment. Moreover, Legislature protects these people by giving them adequate housing.

The voluntary certification program establishes recovery residence certification requirements, monitors and inspect recovery residences, provides training, and develops a code of ethics.

Licensing

Federal Oversight and Regulations

As far as the federal government is concerned, sober houses do not provide treatment; they provide a place where people can support one another in sobriety. They are not licensed by any state agency or subject to state regulation solely as sober houses. Instead, they may be subject to building and fire safety codes based on their size.

State Oversight and Regulations

The residential group homes in Florida are licensed by two state agencies: The Agency for Health Care Administration and the Department of Children and Families, DCF. You can a complete list of specific residential group care facilities that DOH has authority on in 381.006 (16) of the Florida Statutes. [7] The department provide annual environmental health inspection that covers things such as lighting, house maintaining, water supply, outdoor and indoor equipment, food hygiene and sanitation, etc.

Local Oversight and Regulations

Local governments sometimes try to restrict the establishment or operation of sober houses through zoning and housing codes, but the federal laws outlined above limits their ability to do so. Nonetheless, some towns have tried to use zoning and other codes to restrict the establishment or operation of sober houses.

In Florida, some cities like Pompano Beach have outlined clear zoning guidelines that put restrictions on sober living homes. [8] In this case, for example, the city’s leaders have clarified that people without disabilities and people with disabilities who pose “a direct threat to the health or safety of others” such as prison preparolees and sex offenders are not covered by the 1988 amendments to the Fair Housing Act. Therefore, the logic goes, cities do not have to make the same reasonable accommodation for them as cities must for people with disabilities who do not pose “a direct threat to the health or safety of others.”

How to Report a Sober House

If you suspect that your sober house is committing a crime, a fraud, or has some improper management, you can call on the toll free hotline:

1-844-324-5463

This hotline is created by the State Attorney’s Office who is asking people in recovery, as well as doctors and counselors to report questionable business practice. [9]

Your Questions

Living in a sober house can help you determine the pace of your recovery. Definitely, it will help you focus on you and your health. Further, we believe that living in a sober house will help you transition safely into your day-to-day life. It is the bridge that connects treatment and real life. But it can be a big decision to live in a halfway or ¾ way house.

Do you still have questions about sober housing in Florida?

Call us for more information about your treatment and sober living options. Or, post your questions in the comments section at the end. We try to respond personally and promptly to all legitimate questions.

REFERENCE SOURCES:[1] NCBI: A Clean and Sober Place to Live: Philosophy, Structure, and Purported Therapeutic Factors in Sober Living Houses
[2] Oxford House: Oxford House Stories
[3] National Alliance for Recovery Residences
[4] FL Statutes: Certified Recovery Residences
[5] FL Statutes: Voluntary Certification of Recovery Residences
[6] RARR: Certified Residences
[7] FL Statutes: Public Health
[8] Pompano Beach, FL Guidelines on Sober Housing
[9] Sober Homes Task Force
State of Connecticut: 2015 State of Connecticut Office of Legislative Research Report on Sober Houses
FBI: Sober Home and Drug Treatment Center Owner Sentenced
GAO, United States Government Accountability Office 2018 Report: Information on Recovery Housing Prevalence, Selected States’ Oversight, and Funding

[banner variant=”article-6″]

View the original article at addictionblog.org
26 March 2019
Sober Living Options in Florida
ARTICLE OVERVIEW: Sober homes can help you establish routines in addiction recovery. They can be the bridge between treatment and daily life. But, how can you find a licensed sober home in Florida? What are the regulations in the state? We answer here.

TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Definitions

To begin with, what is a sober home? In general, sober homes in Florida consist of communities of people who agree to live together in a drug-free environment. Sober living is NOT drug treatment. A drug treatment facility is much more proactive and offers medical treatment, so it must be licensed.

Under Florida law, a sober home is a place for recovering addicts to live. This type of housing operates under a typical landlord-tenant arrangement. The resident pays rent and the landlord provides a place to live … but the landlord does not provide actual addiction treatment.

[banner variant=”article-1″]

There are three basic types of housing in Florida:

Sober Living

These houses are stable, supportive, and drug-free living environments for people who want to maintain their sobriety. Most sober living houses offer more than just a transitional period. They provide individualized recovery plans that allows residents to work on their own program. Based on peer support, these houses will help you become self-supportive. It is not necessary to have completed a treatment program, but it is expected that you support yourself, pay rent, and buy food. Moreover, some sober houses will encourage you to work, or to seek work. There is no limitation for the length of your stay.

Halfway Houses

[banner variant=”article-2″]

Halfway houses provide a safe and drug-free environment, but the main requirement for stay is that residents must have already completed or are actively enrolled in a treatment program. Usually, these houses are also funded by the government. Many residents are court-ordered to remain there. Drug testing is mandatory when you leave the house overnight. Also, residents may be randomly drug tested. Halfway houses should have 24-hour staff service which may include a clinical addiction treatment team. Generally, the maximum length of your stay in a halfway house is 12 months with a structured and rigorous program.

¾ Houses

[banner variant=”sidebar-1″]

A ¾ house is a drug-free living house similar to halfway house. The main difference is that ¾ house is less structured and with not so rigorous control. It is a type of step down in supervision. Generally, the curfews are later, and you will have the possibility to go to school or work.

[banner variant=”sidebar-3″]

House Rules

The rules in a sober house vary, but they are some general rules that apply to most of the houses. Here are some of the most common house rules you’ll find a sober home in Florida.

1. No alcohol or drug possession or use is allowed on or off the premises. To monitor compliance, staff can request drug testing for residents, often randomly, and discharge someone who refuses to comply.

2. No guests or visitors are allowed in the house without staff consent. Overnight guests are not allowed.

3. Residents must complete daily chores and adhere to the house curfew.

4. Residents must attend one weekly household meeting as well as self-help meetings daily.

5. Residents must be employed as soon as possible and devote several hours per day to the search.

[banner variant=”article-5″]

6. Residents may not borrow money from others. Stealing results in immediate removal.

7. Many houses do not allow pets.

8. You must pay your rent and any other fees on time.

9. You should keep mental health and medical appointments on time and take medications as prescribed.

10. You are allowed to smoke only in designated smoking areas.

11. Many houses allow a 48-hour overnight pass once a month, but you need to request this in advance and then submit a drug test sample upon return.

12. Fighting and gambling are not allowed.

What Sober Living is Really Like

Living in a sober house after rehab is a challenge. You’ll live with people you’ve never met before who can be very different than you. You’ll need to comply with a strict set of rules. Believe it or not, these rules will help you maintain your sobriety. The idea is that you need rules at the beginning to return to everyday life. So, what’s a typical day like?

In a sober home, everybody wakes up around the same time. The mornings are reserved for daily chores such as making your bed, cleaning your room and the shared bathroom, or helping with breakfast. After finishing with the morning routine, there may be a house meeting to assign duties for the residents. Those who have a job will go to work, while the others can search for employment.

During the day, some residents may have a counseling sessions outside of the home, others may need to perform community service. Usually, the evenings are reserved for a support group session, social activities, and dinner. At night, there is time for reading, or watching TV. Everyone usually goes to bed around the same time, or lights out is around midnight

Despite the fact that these rules may seem strict, there are quite effective to keep you on track with your recovery. A six-months study published in the Journal of Psychoactive Drugs showed that 40% of the participants stayed sober during the 6 months period in the sober home. [1]

Here is a testimonial about living in a sober home:

“Now I no longer live to use. I live with a real purpose and ministry. I live to show others by example that “birds of a feather” can learn to live productive lives and come back from living hell by 70 sticking together. YES I go to meetings. YES I have a sponsor, and YES I am working the steps. BUT – Oxford House was the missing piece to the puzzle that saved my life and for that I am eternally grateful. The funny thing is, Oxford House has become a religious experience for me. I never thought that I would once again find a real purpose for living. Thanks to Oxford House, I am now fulfilling my purpose” Xavier’s Story [2]

Finding a Sober Home

Living in a sober home can bring you many benefits on learning how to live a sober life, and how to avoid triggers. But where you can find a sober home?

1. Ask for a referral from your treatment facility.

Usually, treatment centers are connected with sober houses or offer living in a sober house as part of their aftercare service. Speak with your case manager about options BEFORE you leave treatment. You’ll want to be sure that there is room in a sober home and that they will be ready for you when you arrive RIGHT AFTER TREATMENT.

2. Ask for a referral from a mental health professionals or center.

Most mental health centers in the state of Floridapost flyers for sober homes or have connections with sober households. Speak with an administrative person at a mental health center. Or, connect with a psychologist or counselor for a referral.

3. Visit the National Alliance for Recovery Residences.

This is a non-profit organization dedicated to support people in recovery by helping them access to quality sober homes.[3] Check the website listings for sober homes by city in Florida.

4. Check out a list of Certified Recovery Residences

Finding a good sober home is of huge importance since it has the power to shape your path in recovery. Here is a list of some useful tips you may consider before choosing your future home. [4] :
- Be sure that you understand the house rules.
- Check out the testimonials from people who lived there.
- Find a house that is located near your work and counseling.
- Try to find a home with people who are 6+ months sober.
Laws

There are specific laws in Florida that regulate the operations of sober homes. Additionally, some federal laws govern how sober housing should be provide throughout the U.S. Here is a summary of the most important state and federal laws and their main principles.

H.R.4684, Ensuring Access to Quality Sober Living Act of 2018

SUMMARY: This law requires that SAMHSA publish best practices for operating sober houses, and to provide technical assistance to adopt those practices.

House Bill 807, CS/CS/HB 807: Practices of Substance Abuse Service Providers

SUMMARY: This law authorizes Office of Statewide Prosecution to investigate and prosecute offenders to patients, and to increase penalties for operating without proper license. Moreover, it requires that the Department of Children and Families, DCF, check out owners, directors, CFOs, and clinical supervisors of substance abuse service providers.

The Americans with Disabilities Act
The Federal Fair Housing Act (particularly its 1988 amendments)

SUMMARY: People in recovery from substance abuse disorders are considered “disabled” under these laws. The latter law specifically prohibits discrimination in the sale or rental of housing, or to otherwise make unavailable or deny a dwelling to any buyer or renter because of a handicap. It requires governments to make “reasonable accommodations” to preclude such discrimination.

SAMHSA Block Grants for prevention and treatment of substance abuse
42 U.S.C. § 300x-25 AND 45 C.F.R. § 96.129

SUMMARY: The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), administers two federal health care grants for SUD prevention and treatment that states may use to establish recovery homes and for related activities. First, under its Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment block grant, SAMHSA makes at least $100,000 available annually to each state to provide loans to organizations seeking to establish recovery homes. Second, states have discretion to use SAMHSA funding available under a 2-year grant for 2017 and 2018 primarily for opioid use disorder treatment services, to establish recovery homes or for recovery housing-related activities.

NOTE: Florida SB 582 (2014) required all sober houses to register with the state’s Department of Children and Families and provided a criminal penalty for operating an unregistered sober house. The bill died in committee.

FL State Sober Home Statistics

The Sunshine State doesn’t not require license for recovery residences, but there voluntary certification is described by a law called the Florida Statute 397.487. [5]Currently, there are 392 certified recovery residences in the Florida Association of Recovery Residences. [6]

This law states that a person who deals with addiction issues has a higher success rate of achieving long-lasting recovery when they have the opportunity to build a stronger foundation by living in a recovery residence after completing treatment. Moreover, Legislature protects these people by giving them adequate housing.

The voluntary certification program establishes recovery residence certification requirements, monitors and inspect recovery residences, provides training, and develops a code of ethics.

Licensing

Federal Oversight and Regulations

As far as the federal government is concerned, sober houses do not provide treatment; they provide a place where people can support one another in sobriety. They are not licensed by any state agency or subject to state regulation solely as sober houses. Instead, they may be subject to building and fire safety codes based on their size.

State Oversight and Regulations

The residential group homes in Florida are licensed by two state agencies: The Agency for Health Care Administration and the Department of Children and Families, DCF. You can a complete list of specific residential group care facilities that DOH has authority on in 381.006 (16) of the Florida Statutes. [7] The department provide annual environmental health inspection that covers things such as lighting, house maintaining, water supply, outdoor and indoor equipment, food hygiene and sanitation, etc.

Local Oversight and Regulations

Local governments sometimes try to restrict the establishment or operation of sober houses through zoning and housing codes, but the federal laws outlined above limits their ability to do so. Nonetheless, some towns have tried to use zoning and other codes to restrict the establishment or operation of sober houses.

In Florida, some cities like Pompano Beach have outlined clear zoning guidelines that put restrictions on sober living homes. [8] In this case, for example, the city’s leaders have clarified that people without disabilities and people with disabilities who pose “a direct threat to the health or safety of others” such as prison preparolees and sex offenders are not covered by the 1988 amendments to the Fair Housing Act. Therefore, the logic goes, cities do not have to make the same reasonable accommodation for them as cities must for people with disabilities who do not pose “a direct threat to the health or safety of others.”

How to Report a Sober House

If you suspect that your sober house is committing a crime, a fraud, or has some improper management, you can call on the toll free hotline:

1-844-324-5463

This hotline is created by the State Attorney’s Office who is asking people in recovery, as well as doctors and counselors to report questionable business practice. [9]

Your Questions

Living in a sober house can help you determine the pace of your recovery. Definitely, it will help you focus on you and your health. Further, we believe that living in a sober house will help you transition safely into your day-to-day life. It is the bridge that connects treatment and real life. But it can be a big decision to live in a halfway or ¾ way house.

Do you still have questions about sober housing in Florida?

Call us for more information about your treatment and sober living options. Or, post your questions in the comments section at the end. We try to respond personally and promptly to all legitimate questions.

REFERENCE SOURCES:[1] NCBI: A Clean and Sober Place to Live: Philosophy, Structure, and Purported Therapeutic Factors in Sober Living Houses
[2] Oxford House: Oxford House Stories
[3] National Alliance for Recovery Residences
[4] FL Statutes: Certified Recovery Residences
[5] FL Statutes: Voluntary Certification of Recovery Residences
[6] RARR: Certified Residences
[7] FL Statutes: Public Health
[8] Pompano Beach, FL Guidelines on Sober Housing
[9] Sober Homes Task Force
State of Connecticut: 2015 State of Connecticut Office of Legislative Research Report on Sober Houses
FBI: Sober Home and Drug Treatment Center Owner Sentenced
GAO, United States Government Accountability Office 2018 Report: Information on Recovery Housing Prevalence, Selected States’ Oversight, and Funding

[banner variant=”article-6″]

View the original article at addictionblog.org
26 March 2019
Sober Living Options in California
ARTICLE OVERVIEW: Sober homes can be the bridge you need between treatment and daily life. But how do you find the right one to accommodate your needs? We review sober living standards in California here. Then, we invite your questions at the end.

TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Definitions

In order to find the right sober living home, it’s important that you know what it is first. This way, you can know what to expect and what to avoid. In the state of California, a sober living home is a supervised place to live. Sober homes are communities of people who decide to live together in a drug-free environment. People rent these homes the way they would rent an apartment under a landlord-tenant arrangement.

It should be noted that this landlord will NOT offer any kind of drug addiction treatment. Sober living is NOT drug treatment. Rather, it’s a place where people go after treatment in order to avoid relapse and continue pursuing a sober and healthy life. [1] Within the Golden state, you’ll find three basic types of housing:

[banner variant=”article-1″]

Sober Living in California

Sober living is when you live in an alcohol and drug free environment. These apartments, houses, and rooms offer peer support for recovery outside the context of treatment. In order to qualify, you simply must pay rent, purchase your own necessities, and be a supportive member of the community.

You don’t have to go to rehab to join a sober living community. The essential characteristics of this type of housing include:
1. No formal treatment services.
2. Strong encouraged attendance at self-help groups.
3. Personal responsibility for financing rent.
4. Long-term stay as long as you comply with house rules.
Sober living has its origins in the state of California. However, it is difficult to know how many sober living homes there are in California because they do not need to report to state licensing agencies. Still, many are affiliated with coalitions or associations that monitor health, safety, quality and adherence to a peer-oriented model of recovery such as The California Association of Addiction Recovery Resources (CAARR) and The Sober Living Network.

Halfway and ¾ Way Houses

Halfway and ¾ way houses are transitional accommodations. You live in a shared living space, often managed and supervised by others. In order to qualify for this kind of an arrangement, residents must either have completed or be actively involved in a treatment program.

[banner variant=”article-2″]

What’s it like? When people enter these houses, they’re living in a drug-free environment.
However, there is more or less supervision in this type of sober housing than other options on our list. For example, if you decide to sleep elsewhere, you can expect to have to take a drug test the following day.

Halfway houses can be funded by the government. Plus, there are many residents who are court-ordered to remain a resident for a certain period of time. People who stay in these homes usually do so for about 12 months.

[banner variant=”sidebar-1″]

A ¾ way house is a transitional living situation that is good for people who need a little more help before being 100% on their own. Most people who seek this option need more time before moving out on their own.

House Rules

According the California State Library, the house rules set up in a sober living house must be respectful to the residents, the neighbors, and the community. [2] These rules will vary from house to house. In order to truly know the rules of your house, you’ll want to ask either the landlord or check out the website of the house itself.

[banner variant=”sidebar-3″]

Common rules for sober living homes within California are as follows:
1. No alcohol or drug possession or use allowed on and off the premises. In order to make sure this rule is followed, you may be asked to take frequent drug tests (often at random) and, if you refuse to take one, you’ll be discharged.
2. No guests or visitors allowed on the premises without the consent of a staff member. Overnight guests are never allowed.
3. In order to keep the sober living home sanitary, each resident must complete a daily chore. In order to make sure the home remains functional, you’ll have a curfew.
4. All residents must attend one weekly meeting and daily self-help meetings.
5. You’ll be encouraged to find and maintain a job. If you do not have one, you’ll be encouraged to seek out employment for certain period of time.
6. Residents are not allowed to borrow money from others. If you’re caught stealing, you’ll immediately be discharged.
7. No pets allowed, though some houses will allow self-help pets.
8. Rent and other fees must always be paid on time.
9. Though you won’t be monitored, it’s highly encouraged you keep your medical and mental health appointments and take your medication as prescribed.
10. Cigarette smoking is only allowed in specific smoking designated areas.
11. Many houses will allow for a 48-hour overnight pass on a monthly basis. In order to qualify for this, you must need to request permission in advance. Upon your return, you should expect to be asked for a drug test.
12. No fighting nor gambling allowed.
Though these rules seem strict, the purpose of them is to get your body and brain in a new rhythm. By doing a lot of activities, you’ll better be able to keep your mind off cravings. Plus, you’ll be practicing healthier alternatives. You’ll begin to understand what life can be like without drugs…and be encouraged to continue your new life.

What Sober Living is Really Like

Sober living is like living in a dorm with people in addiction recovery. Why do most people agree to enter this type of housing? When you leave drug addiction treatment, it can be difficult to jump back into life. Plus, you may still experience cravings for your drug-of-choice. Even though you’ve gotten rid of the chemical within your body, your brain still has ways of fantasizing about the high [3].

The purpose of entering a sober living home is to have support in recovery. Some people benefit from planting new roots. Others benefit from being away from home. Either way, a drug-free environment can help you better understand how to stay sober…. while receiving help from a support system of people in the same boat.

According to the Journal of Psychoactive Drugs, 40% of sober living home participants remain sober during their 6 month period in the sober home. [4]

But living in a sober living home isn’t always easy. Being surrounded by a new cast of people under one roof with very strict rules can be intimidating. Plus, you’ll need to agree to a certain set of rules. However, everything about a sober living home is set up to help you maintain your sobriety.

[banner variant=”article-5″]

Day–to-Day Life

You can expect to wake up around the same time as everyone else. In the morning, you’ll have a number of chores to do which include, but aren’t limited to:
- Cleaning your room or the shared bathroom.
- Doing laundry.
- Helping with breakfast.
- Making your bed.
By the time you complete your morning chores, you’ll then go to work if you have a job. If you don’t, then you’ll actively search for a job. It’s during these work hours when many residents will complete counseling sessions, go to doctor’s appointments, and perform community service.

By the time the evening rolls around and everyone has completed their responsibilities, you can expect a support group session, social activity, and dinner. These vary depending upon where you live. In order to get a clearer sense of these activities, you’ll want to talk to your landlord.

By the time night comes, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy some entertainment. Whether you’d like to read a good book or enjoy the latest Netflix has to offer, this is the time for you to relax. Everyone will then go to bed around the same time and, though it varies, most sober living homes will have lights out around midnight.

Finding a Sober Home

Now that you’ve learned about most of the benefits of a sober living home, you might be wondering where to find one. There are a number of options at your disposal:

1. Request a Referral from a Treatment Facility

Reputable treatment facilities will have connections to sober houses and may even offer you options for living in a sober house as an aftercare service. In order to receive this information, you’ll want to discuss the matter over with your case manager BEFORE leaving the treatment facility. This is for the sake of making sure there is room in the sober home and that you will have access to all they have to offer RIGHT AFTER YOUR TREATMENT.

2. Request a Referral from a Mental Health Professional or Center

As part of your drug addiction treatment, you may be seeking out a mental health professional. If so, this is a great time to ask them of connections they have to a sober living facility.

3. Visit the National Alliance for Recovery Residences

This non-profit organization aims to support people who are in the recovery process by giving them access to sober homes. You can check out their recommendations through their California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals page or their Sober Living Network page. Both links offer contact information.

4. Check Out a List of Certified Recovery Residences

Laws

Within the state of California, there are specific laws when it comes to regulating and operating sober living homes. By gaining knowledge of these laws, you’ll have the ability to better determine which sober living home is most reputable in accordance with the state.

Fair Employment Housing Act (1959)

Summary: Forbids discriminations within housing based upon disability. In turn, houses must provide reasonable accommodations or modifications for those with disability on the premises.

Government Code 65008 (a), (b), and (d)(2)

Summary: Forbids discrimination in terms of zoning laws against those of disability. Whether it be single-family or multi-family residences, people with disability are protected.

City of Santa Barbara v. Adamson, 27 Cal. 3d 123, 134 (1980)

Summary: Before this trial, there were laws set into place which placed a limit on the number of unrelated people who were allowed to live within a single house-keeping unit. Before the law, only those of “family” based (blood, marriage, and legal adoption) could. This case determined these ideas violated the rights to privacy under the state constitution.

86 Opinions of the Califonria Attorney General 30 (2003)

Summary: The California Attorney General developed the opinion that communities had a right to prohibit lodging houses in residential areas. Since this opinion was released, numerous cities have used it to limit the development of sober living homes.

Licensing

Under California law, you do not need a state license in order to run a sober living home [5]. This is due to the Fair Housing Act making it so that rental homes cannot discriminate against those with a disability.

Still, after the 2003 California Attorney General’s opinion, many cities are placing rules of their own against sober living homes. When you’re seeking out a sober living home in a specific location, you’ll want to look up the specific rules and regulations of both your city and county.

Federal Oversight and Regulations

In accordance with the federal government, a sober living house does not provide treatment. Rather, they provide an aftercare service and a place where people can support one another in sobriety. With that, they are not a licensed facility under the state. Depending on their size, they may be subjected to building and fire safety codes.

State Oversight and Regulations

As mentioned, California does not require a license to run a sober living home. The laws surrounding sober living state that places which offer the accommodations cannot discriminate against people of disability. Again, you may find that there are areas in which you will not find sober living homes due to the 2003 California Attorney General’s opinion. In order to get a clear sense of where you can find a sober living home, you’ll want to look up specific rules and regulations for specific cities and counties.

Local Oversight and Regulations

Throughout California, there are a variety of instances where local government are seeking to better regulate sober living homes. For example, in January 2013, the Los Angeles City Council sent a proposition from the Community Care Facilities Ordinance to the committee for further review [6]. If this had gone through, any home within a single-family zone would be viewed as a boarding house. This is prohibited within all residential zones under existing legislations. In another example, a number of sober living homes were removed from the city of Newport Beach. [7]

How to Report a Sober House

If you have suspicion that you sober house is committing a crime, fraud, has improper management, you can call a toll free hotline in the State. This hotline is that of California’s State Attorney’s Office. It’s open to both residents of a sober home and doctors/counselors to report questionable business practices.

1-800-288-3212

You may also check out the contact information on the Attorney General’s website to reach out for a more specific concern: https://oag.ca.gov/contact

Your Questions

By entering a sober living home, you’ll find yourself active in recovery process. In turn, this will help you focus on important areas of your life and your health. Furthermore, you’ll find that a sober living home is a more welcoming transition into everyday life compared to simply leaving recovery. Again, it’s the bridge that connects treatment and the real world. But to get into a sober living home is a big decision.

With that, you may still have questions concerning sober housing in California. Please post your questions in the comments section below. We try to personally and promptly respond to all legitimate questions.

Reference Sources [1] SAMHSA: Recovery Homes Help People in Early Recovery
[2] California State Library: Sober Living Homes in California: Options for State and Local Regulation
[3] National Institute on Drug Abuse: Health Consequences of Drug Misuse
[4] US National Library of Medicine: A Clean and Sober Place to Live
[5] Select California Laws Relating to Residential Recovery Facilities and Group Homes
[6] City of Los Angeles RE: Community Care Facilities Ordinance
[7] The Orange County Register: Costa Mesa doubles down on sober-living home restrictions

[banner variant=”article-6″]

View the original article at addictionblog.org
26 March 2019
Sober Living Options in Mississippi
ARTICLE OVERVIEW: A sober living home provides a supportive drug-free environment. But where do you start to look for housing? We review your sober living options in Mississippi and state regulations that support your recovery here.

TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Federal and State Laws

Sober living is supportive housing for people in addiction recovery. The purpose of a sober living home is to provide a support system and a drug and alcohol-free environment. The overall goal is to create a bridge between treatment and everyday life. The idea is that the transition to real life can be smoother … this helps prevents relapse.

In order to best understand your rights, it helps to know some basic federal and state laws. There are two federal laws which pertain to sober living homes. They are:

[banner variant=”article-1″]

1. The American with Disabilities Act, the ADA

This law states that “reasonable accommodations” must be created for those with disabilities (this includes those struggling with drug addiction and mental health) either through the state, city, or the homeowner.

2. The Fair Housing Act , the FHA

This law states that anyone who actively seeks out recovery housing will not be discriminated against based on national origin, religion, gender, family status, or disability. Disability includes those recovering from both mental health problems and substance abuse.

[banner variant=”article-2″]

When it comes to specific laws within Mississippi concerning sober living options, the laws vary from county to county. Even more so, from town to town. For example, in the city of Waveland, you need proper zoning ordinances – especially within single-family neighborhood zoning districts – to propose a sober living home [1]. In other cities throughout Mississippi, there are similar measures which need to be taken under a regulation known as “Adult Care Home” [2]. Additionally, specific licensing is required in order to have a sober living home in Mississippi (see below).

Sober Living in Mississippi

It’s important to note that you don’t need to be leaving a treatment facility in order to enter most sober homes in Mississippi. Most people are eligible to join a drug-free community in the state. As long as you pay the rent and follow the house rules, you’ll be accepted.

[banner variant=”sidebar-1″]

The purpose of this living situation is to help you develop self-discipline and works towards living drug-free on your own.

If you believe you’d like to get involved in a sober living home, you’re going to need the right attitude. Since Mississippi’s law has a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to drugs, many sober living homes also have strict guidelines. [3] You must be committed to recovering from drug addiction in order to make the most of your experience there. If you’re interested in finding a sober living home within Mississippi, see below for more details.

[banner variant=”sidebar-3″]

Halfway and ¾ Houses

As you search for sober living homes, you’re going to come across homes which identify as either a halfway or ¾ house. It should be noted, there are a number of halfway and ¾ houses which are government-funded. [4] While this isn’t always the case, you may be housing with people who are ordered to be there by the court.

The biggest difference is that halfway houses may require that you’ve completed OR are actively enrolled in rehab. Plus, most people stay at a halfway house for no more than 12 months.

However, there is no official limit set to how long you’re allowed to stay. Since it’s in everyone’s best interest to allow you to transition when you’re ready, you’re allowed to maintain residency until you feel disciplined enough to stay sober in the real world.

When entering a halfway house or ¾ house, you should know there’s less supervision in comparison to a treatment facility. The idea is for you to learn how to discipline yourself while surrounded by a supportive, drug-free environment. This means you’ll have to start seeking out work and get into a schedule you can commit to when you leave the sober living home.

Still, there will still be some supervision, for sure. For example, you’ll be required to submit to random drug tests from time to time. If you fail a drug test, you’ll be asked to leave the home.

House Rules

Each sober living house will come with its own set of rules. In order to get a sense of the particular rules in terms of your sober living home, you’ll want to speak to your landlord.

[banner variant=”article-5″]

In the state of Mississippi, there are common rules which span across ALL sober living homes. It’s important to remember that the state has a zero-tolerance drug policy. So, house rules regarding drug use and possession must be followed strictly.

Mississippi sober living rules often include:

1. No alcohol or drug possession or use is allowed on and off premises. In order to make sure this rule is followed, you may be subjected to take frequent drug tests often at random and, if you refuse to take or fail one, you’ll be automatically discharged.

2. To be 100% drug-free, some residences don’t allow certain types of mouth wash or cooking ingredients, such as vanilla.

3. There will be regular meetings scheduled which you MUST attend. These meetings are made to check in with everyone and work through emotional difficulties anyone may be facing. You’ll also be assigned chores and, if you have any questions concerning the sober living home, you’ll receive answers.

4. There will be a curfew. You’ll need to meet curfew or face warning and then removal. This rule may be waived if a resident has certain commitments to responsibilities such as work or school. However, it’s only waived if the resident has been there long enough. Furthermore, you can expect to receive a drug test if you’re waived from the curfew.

5. A bathroom schedule may be set in place in order to accommodate with everyone. This means you’ll be assigned certain times to shower or other necessities, such as brushing your teeth.

6. You’ll be assigned chores which include cleaning or prepping meals.

7. You’ll have your own personal treatment goals. Most sober living homes require residents to develop a plan and meet with a staff member on the development of this plan. The goal is to evaluate your progress towards this plan over time.

8. Most sober living homes require you to be active in a 12-step meeting. Some will provide you with these meetings within the home itself, while others will ask you go out to the community and become involved with one.

9. Any cigarette smoking or vaping must take place in a designated smoking location.

10. You cannot have sexual contact of any kind with another resident.

11. You will be penalized for stealing from the house or destroying the property. You’ll also face 12. consequences for engaging in violent activity.

12. Rent and other fees must be paid on time.

13. No pets allowed, although some sober living homes allow for self-help pets.

14. No gambling.

These rules will be strictly enforced, but for good reason: to get your body and brain in the right rhythm for the real world.

What Sober Living is Really Like

Sober living is like dormitory style housing with strangers who are on a similar path to recovery. You’ll live with people of the same gender and get to know them really well. You go to sleep and wake up at the same time. Often, you’ll share meals together. And you might even go to group therapy with your roommates or housemates.

A sober living home provides you with a set of rules but and a rigorous schedule. Though there are many difficulties when residing in a sober living home, there are many more positive outcomes. You’ll learn to develop new habits and hobbies which can help you beat drug addiction for good. [5]

Upon entering a sober living home, you can expect to continue making the change you started in treatment. The change of living a sober, drug-free life. And you can expect to learn to do so through such the guidelines and expectations of the sober living home. If things ever become too difficult, you’ll be surrounded with supportive people, many of who are in the same boat as you.

Day-to-Day Life

The day-to-day life in a sober living home varies from house to house. Just as with the house rules, no two homes work equally and, therefore, you’ll want to ask your landlord to learn more about what to expect on a day-to-day basis.

EARLY MORNING: Upon waking up in the morning, you will have to complete one or more chores you’ve been assigned. This can include anything from cleaning to preparing breakfast. You’ll want to make sure you’re always on top of your chores and be aware if any new ones are added to your list.

LATE MORNING: As the morning comes to an end, you’ll be expected to go to work. If you don’t have a job, then you’ll be required to actively seek one. Not only is this to make sure you can provide for your rent but also to get you in an active mindset. It’s been proven that activity such as a job is a key factor in preventing relapse [6].

AFTERNOON: You’ll probably spend the afternoon at work. But if you have a doctor’s appointment, counseling meeting, or community service to complete, you’ll also be expected to do so at this time.

EVENING: By the time you return home in the evening, you will find yourself in a self-help meeting – either as a group or on an individual basis. Afterward, you’ll have various social activities to participate in. The evening can also include a communal dinner.

As nighttime approaches, you’ll have the opportunity to indulge in some entertainment. This is YOUR TIME and you can do with it as you please – whether it’s watching a movie, listening to some music, or jotting down thoughts in a journal. The time is up to you! Most sober living homes will have a time for when lights go out. This tends to be around midnight.

Finding a Sober Living Home

There are a number ways to find a sober home in Mississippi. A quick Google search of your specific area will give you plenty of options alone. However, it’s important to make sure you discover a reputable sober living home which is just as concerned with your journey to sobriety as you are. In order to do so, you may want to look towards the following resources:

1. Non-profit organizations

The website ProjectKnow is a search engine for sober living homes within various states across the U.S. It’s a trustworthy source which features reputable homes for your convenience. You can view Mississippi Sober Homes or look to this non-profit for more info on Mississippi Transitional Housing. Throughout your search, you may be suggested the organization known as the National Alliance for Recovery Residents (NARR). It’s important to note the state of Mississippi is not currently an affiliate of this organization.

2. Oxford House

Oxford House is a self-run, self-supported recovery house program for individuals recovering from alcoholism and drug addiction. The program provides sober living homes which assure an alcohol and drug-free environment. Within most houses, you’ll find between 6 to 11 individuals – either all men or all women. There are even houses which accept women with children. For a list of Oxford Home vacancies, visit their website.

3. Request a Referral

Your rehab or addictions counselor may know of reputable sober living homes in your area. Ask for a referral. If you’d like more information, you’ll want to talk around. Make sure to do so BEFORE leaving the treatment facility as you’ll want to make sure there’s room in the sober living house the day your treatment ends.

Licensing

Are sober homes regulated in Mississippi?

No. Currently, there are no licensing regulations when it comes to running a sober living home in Mississippi. However, licensing laws are on the horizon.

Early last year, the Scottsdale Independent reported of many sober living homes are getting away without a license due to the fact they aren’t a “health care institution”. [7] Due to this, there talk about the necessity of a license in order to provide such accommodations to recovering people struggling with drug or alcohol addiction.

However, when it comes to zoning for a sober living home, certain licenses are required. [1] There are specific cities which require zoning ordinances within single-family residences in order to provide the accommodations of a sober living home. If you are seeking to start a sober living home, you’ll want to check out your local ordinances.

How to Report a Sober House

You may be suspicious of your sober living home committing a crime, fraud, or having improper management. If so, there’s a toll free hotlines available under the Mississippi Office of the Attorney General. [8] To report a sober house in Mississippi, call:

1-800-281-4418

You may also visit the official website for more information: http://www.ago.state.ms.us/

Your Questions

A sober living home is a great way to make sure you stay on track in recovery. It’s a bridge which helps you transition from addiction recovery back into everyday life. But to get into a sober living home is a big decision. And you may have more questions before you make such a commitment.

If so, we invite your questions in the comments section below. We also invite comments which provide more details on sober living homes in Mississippi. We try to reply to each legitimate question in a prompt and personal manner.

Reference Sources: [1] Zoning Ordinance of the City of Waveland, Mississippi: Ordinance #349
[2] City Council Report: Item 27
[3] Mississippi Department of Mental Health, Bureau of Alcohol and Drug Abuse: FY 2011 State Plan
[4] J Psychoactive Drugs: A Clean and Sober Place to Live: Philosophy, Structure, and Purported Therapeutic Factors in Sober Living Houses
[5] J Psychoactive Drugs: What Did We Learn from Our Study on Sober Living Houses and Where Do We Go From Here?
[6] Yale J Biol Med: Relapse prevention and the Five Rules of Recovery
[7] Scottsdale Independent: Scottsdale dips into sober home regulations through new spacing requirements
[8] USA.gov: State and Local Consumer Agencies in Mississippi

[banner variant=”article-6″]

View the original article at addictionblog.org
26 March 2019