Recovery Resources

Scientific Research
on Sober Living 

Retention in Sober Living Houses (SLHs):

Residents showed excellent retention in SLHs, with average lengths of stay surpassing the National Institute on Drug Abuse's recommendation of at least 90 days for maximum benefit. The average length of stay was 254 days at one SLH and 166 days at another.

Primary Outcomes

  • Residents generally reduced or stopped substance use between baseline and 6-month follow-ups, maintaining improvements at 12 and 18 months.

  • Abstinence rates improved significantly over time, with fewer days of substance use per month.

  • ASI alcohol and drug severity measures showed improvement at 6 months and were maintained at 12 and 18 months.

Secondary Outcomes:

  • Positive improvements were noted in employment, psychiatric symptoms, and arrests.

  • At one SLH, there was a significant reduction in arrests, an improvement in employment severity, and a decrease in psychiatric symptoms over time.

  • The other SLH also showed similar patterns of improvement in employment and arrests, with substantial reductions in the odds of being arrested over time.

Variety of Positive Outcomes:

A diverse range of individuals across demographic subgroups and referral sources experienced positive outcomes. Furthermore, residents maintained improvements even after leaving the sober living home, with most improvements being sustained at 18 months post-baseline.

This study outlines the characteristics of residents who move into sober living homes and presents the progress of 130 residents after residing in sober living for six months. During the 6-month follow-up period, significant improvements are noted in

  • Substance Use

  • Employment Status

  • Involvement in Legal Issues

  • Psychiatric Symptoms. 

This study explores the significance of the environmental context in human behavior and emphasizes the need to understand how environmental influences shape individuals, particularly within residential mutual-help facilities for alcohol and drug problems. 

This study delves into the architectural considerations that emphasize the role of space in recovery. Researchers identify six key architectural considerations, including:

  • Location

  • Appearance

  • Design for Sociability

  • Personal Space

  • Facility Oversight and Security

  • Care and Upkeep. 

These considerations aim to create recovery-conducive environments while fostering positive community relations.