A halfway house, also known as a sober living home or transitional housing, provides a structured and supportive living environment for individuals transitioning back into society after completing an addiction treatment program or incarceration. These homes offer a safe and stable space where residents can focus on their recovery and develop the skills necessary for independent living.

But who foots the bill for these essential services?

The cost of a halfway house is typically covered by residents themselves, but insurance, government programs, non-profits, or grants may help. Some facilities offer sliding scale fees or scholarships for those in need. Always check with the specific halfway house for payment options.

Funding Sources for Halfway Houses

The funding landscape for halfway houses is diverse, often drawing from a combination of sources:

• Resident Fees: Many halfway houses charge residents a monthly fee to cover living expenses. This fee can vary depending on the location, amenities, and services provided.
• Government Funding: Government grants at the federal, state, and local levels play a significant role in supporting halfway houses. These grants may come from agencies focused on substance abuse treatment, mental health, or human services.
• Nonprofit Organizations: Numerous nonprofit organizations dedicate resources to halfway houses. These organizations may provide direct funding, in-kind donations, or volunteer support.
• Insurance Coverage: In some cases, health insurance plans may cover a portion of the costs associated with halfway house stays, particularly if the facility is considered a necessary step in the individual’s treatment plan. This coverage can vary significantly depending on the insurance provider and the specific policy.

Do Halfway Houses Provide Food?

Yes, most halfway houses provide basic food staples for their residents. This often includes access to a shared kitchen and pantry stocked with essential ingredients. Residents are typically responsible for preparing their own meals, which encourages self-sufficiency and life skills development. Some halfway houses may also offer communal meals or have arrangements with local food banks or meal programs.

The Importance of Halfway Houses in the Recovery Journey

Halfway houses play a vital role in the continuum of care for individuals recovering from substance abuse or mental health challenges. They bridge the gap between intensive inpatient treatment and independent living, offering a structured environment that supports ongoing recovery.

Key features of halfway houses often include:

• Sober Living Environment: Halfway houses maintain a strict zero-tolerance policy for drugs and alcohol, providing a safe and supportive environment for sustained sobriety.
• Structured Living: Residents typically follow house rules, including curfews and participation in house meetings, which promote accountability and structure.
• Peer Support: Living alongside others in recovery creates a sense of community and shared experience, fostering mutual support and encouragement.
• Life Skills Training: Many halfway houses offer programs to develop essential life skills, such as job training, budgeting, and communication, to prepare residents for independent living.
• Continued Treatment: Residents often continue their recovery journey through participation in outpatient treatment programs, 12-step meetings (like Alcoholics Anonymous), and individual therapy.

Choosing the Right Halfway House

When considering a halfway house, it’s essential to research different options and find a program that aligns with individual needs and recovery goals. Factors to consider include:

• Location: Proximity to support networks, employment opportunities, and transportation.
• Length of Stay: Understanding the expected duration of stay and any flexibility in the program.
• Cost and Payment Options: Clarifying the fees, payment options, and potential insurance coverage.
• Program Components: Evaluating the specific services offered, such as job training, mental health treatment, and life skills development.
• House Rules and Expectations: Understanding the rules and expectations to ensure compatibility with personal needs and preferences.

By carefully considering these factors and seeking guidance from treatment professionals and loved ones, individuals can find a halfway house that supports their successful transition to independent living and lasting recovery.

Conclusion

Halfway houses, also known as sober living facilities or recovery residences, provide a critical stepping stone for individuals transitioning from an addiction recovery program or incarceration to independent living. These sober homes offer structure and support for those recovering from substance use disorders (SUD), helping them maintain sobriety while integrating back into society.

While the costs of staying in a sober living house are often the responsibility of the residents, financial assistance may be available through healthcare programs, insurance companies, government grants, non-profits, or referrals from a treatment center. Some facilities offer aftercare support, including access to an outpatient program, drug testing, and ongoing counseling to reinforce long-term sobriety. Understanding the treatment options, funding sources, and the required amount of time for transitional living can make a significant difference in achieving long-term recovery.

For those seeking a stable, supportive environment to continue their addiction recovery, researching transitional living options thoroughly and exploring all available health services can help ensure a smooth transition to a healthier, more independent future.

---

Published on: 2025-01-30
Updated on: 2025-04-29

Alcoholism is defined as an inability to control alcohol consumption. While alcohol abuse and alcoholism are often used interchangeably, someone who abuses alcohol may still set some limits on how much or when they drink. However, alcoholism can have a profound impact on both your personal and professional life, often leading to absences, tardiness, and absenteeism at work, which may impair your ability to maintain a job or advance in your career.

How Alcoholism Impacts Your Professional Life

When under the influence of alcohol, completing even the simplest tasks can become challenging. For example, you may struggle to walk from the parking lot to your office due to impairment or health problems like nerve or joint pain. Balance issues caused by alcohol-related damage to your body or brain can also make everyday tasks difficult.

This impairment can affect your ability to safely operate machinery, interact with customers, or perform other job duties, increasing the likelihood of job injuries. Even if you consider yourself a functional alcoholic, warning signs such as bloodshot eyes, smelling of alcohol, or slurred speech may be more noticeable to others than you realize, raising concerns about your well-being and ability to perform at work.

You may also feel the urge to drink during work hours, slipping away to your car or elsewhere, which could violate company policies and further damage your reputation. Behavioral health issues like this can hinder your career advancement and lead to a negative reputation, potentially preventing promotions.

Moreover, alcoholism can increase risk factors for drunk driving or other legal charges due to poor decision-making, potentially resulting in a criminal record that could limit future employment opportunities. The increased healthcare costs and long-term impact on your well-being are further consequences of unaddressed alcohol addiction.

How to Regain Control

The first step in regaining control is admitting that you are addicted to alcohol. Addiction can stem from genetics or be the result of underlying issues such as undiagnosed depression, ADHD, or other health concerns. The prevalence of addiction highlights the importance of understanding its roots, as this insight is key to overcoming it.

Recognizing that you have an addiction is crucial because it shows that overcoming it requires external help. Addiction isn’t something you can control alone, and while you may never fully recover, you can manage it through strategies that help you avoid temptation and maintain sobriety.

Fortunately, managing your addiction becomes easier with time, especially if you have a strong support network. This may include support groups, where you can connect with others who have faced similar challenges, and the assistance of medication to control the symptoms related to alcoholism. Additionally, your employer and loved ones may provide resources and encouragement to help you overcome your dependence on alcohol.

How Your Employer Can Help

Your employer may be able to assist with some or all of the costs associated with going to rehab through an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) or health insurance benefits. Instead of paying for a stay in an inpatient facility directly, your company might offer paid leave while you undergo treatment. An EAP can also provide access to resources for workplace alcohol issues and work performance support.

Additionally, human resources and management may offer work environment support, such as encouraging communication or morale-boosting initiatives during your treatment. Your employer might also provide incentives to ensure you complete your treatment program, such as holding your job open until your return or developing a career path for you post-recovery, possibly helping you transition into management or secure long-term income.

Where Can You Go for Rehab?

There are numerous programs available to help you overcome alcohol addiction, substance abuse, or substance use disorders, but not all will suit your needs. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) can be good starting points for finding the right treatment.

Staying close to home may be ideal if you’re not planning a long-term inpatient stay or need to remain near family, such as your children. It can also help if you don’t feel triggered by a familiar environment and are managing a drinking problem or drug use responsibly with local resources.

On the other hand, leaving home may be best if you need a fresh start, especially if you’re struggling with substance misuse or alcohol use disorder and want to distance yourself from temptations. Moving away might also make sense if you don’t plan to return to your current job or have few local ties.

In some cases, local facilities may be limited, or your insurance may only cover certain programs. Speaking with providers, or having a trusted friend or family member assist, can help you explore options and find the right alcohol treatment or drug rehab program. Organizations like Alcoholics Anonymous can also offer support, especially if you are seeking outpatient care or additional resources such as alcohol testing or alcohol treatment.

What Types of Programs Are Available?

Inpatient programs are designed for individuals who need to detox from alcohol use and give themselves time to reset mentally and physically. These programs provide access to doctors, mental health professionals, and other resources to help you recover from the effects of alcohol. Inpatient treatment typically lasts 30 to 90 days and prepares you to re-enter the world without relying on drinking alcohol as a coping mechanism. This is especially beneficial for those dealing with heavy drinking or frequent hangovers.

Outpatient programs are ideal for those looking to maintain their sobriety or as a first step after a relapse. It’s also a good option for those who feel they can manage their use of alcohol with minimal outside help. Outpatient programs often include daily meetings at local churches or community centers, where participants can discuss their progress and the signs of alcohol dependence. These programs also provide access to healthcare professionals, but appointments may be required.

Your employer may assist in finding meetings or adjusting your schedule to accommodate regular attendance. In some cases, depending on state or local laws, employers may even make participation in meetings or other actions to reduce alcohol consumption a condition of employment, particularly if the smell of alcohol or other signs of alcohol misuse are affecting workplace performance.

How to Salvage Your Career

Your battle with alcoholism can negatively affect your career even after getting sober. However, there are steps you can take to help yourself. For example, you might start your own company, hiring individuals who have recently completed treatment programs and need assistance rebuilding their resumes.

You could also become a consultant, advocating for companies to support those who have overcome addiction. Through your work, you could help others with similar experiences overcome the stigma of addiction and secure employment.

Another option is to find work in a new field or relocate to a city where no one knows you. Moving can also distance you from people or places that might trigger a relapse.

Alcohol dependence can have serious consequences for your career and life, but if you’re ready to move forward, Recreate Life Counseling is here to help. Our treatment center offers a variety of treatment options tailored to your needs. You can learn more about our services, payment options, and other important information online or by calling us today.

---

Published on: 2024-08-12
Updated on: 2025-04-29

You may have become impulsive or aggressive lately, but this occurs when someone has an alcohol use disorder (AUD). Your personality changes, so you may recognize yourself in the alcoholic personality traits in this article’s description.

What Does Alcohol Do to the Brain?

Alcohol suppresses the central nervous system, slowing down brain activity. This leads to mood changes, impaired decision-making, and a loss of self-control. Problematic alcohol consumption can impair memory and make it harder to think clearly. It’s also why you may experience a lack of coordination when drinking.

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) causes the brain to release dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with the brain’s reward system. This increase in dopamine during alcohol consumption creates feelings of euphoria and pleasure, contributing to impulsivity, increased confidence, and more sensation-seeking behavior, such as risky actions or excessive social engagement. These effects of alcohol can significantly alter behavior, even after short-term use.

Many individuals combine alcohol with other substances, such as benzodiazepines or stimulants like cocaine. This combination can lead to serious adverse effects and accidents. If your drinking habits are concerning or you’re noticing the signs of alcoholism, it might be time to seek professional help for your alcohol dependence or alcohol abuse.

What Are the Personality Traits of an Alcoholic?

Alcohol dependence often results in significant changes to personality, with certain traits commonly seen in those with alcohol use disorder. These traits can include impulsivity, neuroticism, and shifts in priorities that affect overall well-being. For example, individuals may show reckless behavior, a tendency to manipulate, or exhibit sensation-seeking tendencies, such as risky behavior or poor decision-making.

When someone suffers from alcohol addiction, they may display several traits:

• Deceptiveness and manipulation
• Shifting priorities, often centered around alcohol consumption
• Self-esteem issues and constant apologizing
• Recklessness and impulsivity
• Blaming others for personal problems

These traits can be compounded by the physical toll alcohol takes on the body, leading to symptoms like muscle weakness and other health concerns. If these behaviors sound familiar, it may indicate a serious drinking problem and the need for professional help at a treatment center.

At ReCreate Life Counseling, we offer comprehensive treatment options for those struggling with alcohol use disorder, including inpatient and outpatient treatment programs tailored to your needs. Our programs address both the psychological and physical aspects of alcohol addiction, supporting a full recovery from the impact of this condition on your mental health and overall well-being.

Alcoholic Personality Traits

The following are common alcoholic personality traits:

Feeling Frustrated

When experiencing an alcohol use disorder, you may easily feel frustrated throughout the day.

Blaming Other People

You may blame others for your actions and never take responsibility for the problems you cause. This tendency begins to create tension between friends and family members. An alcohol use disorder also causes you to be defensive. For example, you may blame your difficult circumstances on what is going on in your life. You may even begin to believe that your family members, your coworkers, your romantic partner, or the people you live with are responsible for the reason that you are drinking.

Experiencing Anxiety

The anxiety can be related to your fear of failure or being in a social setting.

Feeling Guilty

You may appear to be enjoying yourself while consuming alcohol, but the alcohol may mask incredible guilt.

Low Self-Esteem

The most common trait is low self-esteem. When you don’t feel worthy of being in the same space as other people, you may feel like you need a coping mechanism. The first coping mechanism that you may use is alcohol. That may be because it is legal and socially acceptable to drink, and it helps you avoid the problems you are experiencing very well, but it doesn’t last.

Reckless Behavior

When you drink, you are more likely to engage in reckless behaviors. If you are under the influence of alcohol most of the time, this can be a very serious issue. This is when you are more likely to fight with other people. You are also more likely to drive after consuming alcohol, which can have devastating consequences if you drive for a living. Reckless behavior also includes arriving at your place of business or school while you are intoxicated.

Reckless behavior is something we can all engage in at one time or another in our lives, so it isn’t necessarily the result of abusing alcohol. If you were known as a likable person and became reckless due to alcohol, you may be experiencing an alcohol use disorder.

Shifting Priorities

A very common trait that someone with a substance use disorder has is the tendency to shift their priorities so that they can drink alcohol. Instead, you may seek alcohol and drink than attend to your work priorities, childcare responsibilities, or romantic relationship.

You may have noticed your grades suffer if you are in school right now. If you are working, you may not be paying as close attention to your duties as you had in the past. You also begin to neglect your personal hygiene, which is noticeable if you were meticulous about your appearance before alcohol took over your life.

Financial Struggles

People experiencing an alcohol use disorder often struggle financially. Many people experience times when their finances are not as stable as they would like them to be. Still, financial instability can also mean that the consumption of alcohol is the cause of the instability.

First, it can be expensive to keep a supply of alcohol at all times. You may be in the habit of drinking at a bar, but purchasing alcohol at a bar is more expensive than buying it at a store. You can inadvertently spend much more money at a bar than in other circumstances. You may also have used being at a bar as an excuse to consume alcohol. Ordinarily, it wouldn’t spike anyone’s interest if you said that you were going to the bar for a drink, but this may only be your way of making your alcohol consumption appear normal.

An alcohol use disorder can also cause your job performance to suffer. If you are psychologically or physically dependent on alcohol, you may have difficulties completing your work day without drinking alcohol. In most cases, businesses have rules that employees are not allowed to drink while on duty. If you go to work while intoxicated, you may risk losing your job.

Uncontrollable Drinking

Uncontrollable drinking is the inability to stop drinking when it may be prudent. You may drink more than your limit when you are out in public and cannot control yourself.

If you constantly drink alcohol, you may be psychologically or physically dependent on the substance. This dependence causes you to believe you cannot function normally unless you drink. At this point, you are addicted to alcohol, and it is impossible for you to stop.

Making Excuses All of the Time

Alcohol is practically everywhere. Someone offers a champagne toast when we go to birthday parties, graduations or weddings. Several mimosas also accompany brunches. If you are going on a date or with friends, it isn’t unusual to end up at a bar. These are frequent instances that allow you to make excuses to drink.

Drinking to excess often leads to the disapproval of others, but when you have an alcohol use disorder, you are always prepared to offer an excuse for your drinking. These excuses are the harrowing time you had at work this week or the troubles you are having in your relationship. It doesn’t matter what the problem is; you can come up with a reason that you need to take a drink.

Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder

Obtaining alcohol addiction treatment at Recreate Life Counseling ensures you have the best chance of recovering from your disease. Substance abuse and alcohol addiction are diseases, and as such, they can be effectively treated with comprehensive treatment plans. Once you begin your recovery journey, you will be able to recognize yourself once again.

The first step in the treatment process is entering the detox phase. During alcohol withdrawal, we ensure that all harmful substances left behind by alcohol are removed from your body. This is a critical first step because those addicted to alcohol often experience severe withdrawal symptoms when attempting to quit on their own. Medications may be administered to help manage these symptoms during detox, followed by therapy to address the psychological aspects of addiction.

For individuals facing both mental disorders and substance abuse, we offer dual diagnosis programs to address both conditions simultaneously, ensuring comprehensive care for mental health issues as well as addiction.

Contact us today if you’re ready to experience life without alcohol. We provide a range of treatment options, including residential treatment at our inpatient treatment center, partial hospitalization, outpatient treatment, and intensive outpatient treatment programs tailored to meet your individual needs.

---

Published on: 2022-10-31
Updated on: 2025-04-29

Methamphetamine is a highly addictive and very powerful, illegal stimulant drug that affects a person’s central nervous system. Methamphetamine, also called meth, glass, or ice, often comes in crystal chunks ranging in colors from clear to blue. Meth is used either by smoking, snorted, or injected into the vein. Meth causes a powerful rush of energy and “power” that people can get hooked on right away. When it is used, it causes dopamine to flood parts of the brain responsible for regulating feelings of pleasure in a person. It causes a person to feel very energetic and confident.

Once a person is addicted, they will do anything to feel that rush again. As this drug is used more and more, a tolerance is built up, meaning the user will need to continue to use higher and higher doses to feel the same high they felt at the beginning. Meth abuse and addiction can cause a lot of side effects including increased aggression, paranoia, hallucination, problems with the heart, brain, liver, kidneys, and lungs, weight loss, tooth decay, infection, and many other side effects

Effects of Meth on the Skin

Meth sores are a very common side effect of meth use and are most commonly seen on a person’s face, mouth, cheeks, and forehead. They also appear on the limbs, hands, and feet. They may start out looking like acne or a rash but can become infected and spread even more. They often form on the skin because of irritation and persistent scratching. This drug triggers itching, which makes a person want to scratch their face and body; oftentimes to the point where they are bleeding.

Most meth sores are self-inflicted and are often caused by another side effect called meth mites, also known as ice mites or crank bugs. These are imaginary bugs that many meth users say they feel crawling all over their skin or under their skin. This is a hallucination known as formication. Formication is described as a physical hallucination that sometimes is also accompanied by visual hallucinations. This makes the user truly believe they are covered in bugs and will pick and scratch to get them off, leading to meth sores.

What Happens to Skin Because of Methamphetamine

Men and women that abuse meth often have poor hygiene habits. This also contributes to the itchy skin and can lead to the meth sores getting infected. As the sores get worse and infected, they sometimes develop brown or black centers until they grow into a blister and fill with pus. Infected skin sores may even require medical attention. If an infection is bad enough, treatment may need to include antibiotics or draining of the sore.

The best way to get rid of meth sores is to stop taking meth. Once a person stops using meth and begins to take care of their skin again, the sores will heal and scab over however, depending on the severity of the sores, they can scar a person’s skin.

The best and safest option for getting off methamphetamine is by the use of one of our many treatment programs. We offer partial care and outpatient treatment programs that provide therapeutic education and guidance for each individual to help them safely reintegrate into society. With the help of our team of therapists, we offer one on one, group therapy, as well as many other specialized options to fit each person’s needs.

Addiction treatment requires a multi-layered approach for maximum success. We want to make sure you have the tools you need to avoid relapse in the real world.

Treatment for Meth Addiction

Addiction isn’t an easy thing to face and the health risks are not worth a short high. Getting sober can be hard, but the rewards you will get in life are worth it. For your sake, you do not have to face getting off crystal meth on your own. Our admissions counselors and addiction professionals are available around the clock. We are ready to help you or a loved one overcome the disease of addiction. Now is the time to change your or a loved one’s life and overcome meth addiction.

---

Published on: 2020-11-13
Updated on: 2025-04-29