How Long Should I Stay in a Sober Living Home?
Research Informs Us, Experience Guides Us
One of the most common questions we hear at Solstice Recovery, a sober living home serving men in the Thousand Oaks area of Los Angeles, is:
“How long should I stay in sober living?”
We understand the importance of providing guidance rooted in research and tailored to individual needs. Recovery from addiction is not a race—it’s a long-term lifestyle change. This is a deeply personal journey that sets the foundation for a happy, healthy life. Determining the appropriate length of stay in a sober living home is a crucial decision that can significantly impact long-term sobriety.
Let’s dive into the evidence, the factors that influence your timeline, and why Solstice Recovery might be the right place to spend this transformative season of your life.
What the Research Suggests
Studies consistently highlight the benefits of extended stays in sober living environments:
Minimum of 90 Days is the Gold Standard
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), 90 days is the minimum recommended duration for effective addiction treatment, including sober living environments. Shorter stays are associated with higher rates of relapse
Optimal Outcomes at 6 Months
A study published in the Journal of Psychoactive Drugs found that individuals who stayed in sober living for six months or more had significantly lower substance use, fewer arrests, and improved employment outcomes
Average Stays Exceeding 100 Days
Most residents begin to see noticeable changes in clarity, emotional stability, and structure after about 90–120 days. However, full reintegration into daily life, especially in high-risk environments like Los Angeles, often benefits from extended stays.
Factors Influencing Length of Stay
While research provides general guidelines, individual circumstances play a significant role in determining the appropriate duration:
Personal Progress
Recovery is not linear. Some individuals may feel ready to transition after a few months, while others may benefit from a longer stay to reinforce coping strategies and stability.
Support Systems
The presence or absence of a strong support network outside the sober living environment can influence the decision to stay longer.
Employment and Financial Stability
Achieving financial independence and stable employment can be a milestone indicating readiness to transition.
Mental and Physical Health
Ongoing health issues may necessitate a longer stay to ensure comprehensive care and support.
Benefits of Extended Stay
Choosing to stay longer in a sober living home can offer several advantages:
Reinforced Habits
Extended time allows for the solidification of healthy routines and coping mechanisms.
Community Integration
Longer stays foster deeper connections with peers, providing a robust support system.
Reduced Relapse Risk
Gradual transition reduces the likelihood of relapse by ensuring individuals are well-prepared to handle real-world challenges.
Solstice Recovery’s Unique Approach
At Solstice Recovery, we prioritize individualized care:
Flexible Programs
We offer programs that adapt to your unique recovery journey, without imposing arbitrary time limits.
Continuous Assessment
Regular evaluations ensure that the duration of stay aligns with your progress and goals.
Holistic Support
Our comprehensive services address not just sobriety but also mental health, employment, and life skills.
Get the Help you Deserve
Deciding how long to stay at sober living isn’t easy—but you don’t have to figure it out alone.
At Solstice Recovery, we meet you where you are. Whether you’re new to sobriety or seeking continued structure after treatment, we’ll help you build a personalized plan that puts your long-term success first.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation or tour our home.
