When it comes to addiction, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach or solution. Some people may need medication and therapy, while others may benefit from a sober companion. Sober companions can provide a number of benefits to those struggling with addiction, but they could also come with some drawbacks. In this blog post, we will discuss the pros and cons of sober companionship and help you decide if it’s the best choice for you or someone you know.
What is a Sober Companion?
Let’s begin by discussing exactly what a sober companion is. A sober companion is someone who provides assistance and support to people struggling with addiction in their journey towards sobriety. Sober companions typically have experience with addiction themselves and are therefore able to provide first-hand guidance and support to those they work with.
Their work with addicts can include everything from providing emotional support to helping them stick to their treatment plan and avoiding triggers that could lead to relapse.
In most cases, sober companions live in the individual’s home with them. This allows the companion to provide 24/7 accountability and support. It also allows them to get a better sense of the individual’s home life and what kinds of triggers or stressors they may be dealing with on a daily basis.
Now that we’ve discussed what a sober companion is, let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons of working with one.
Advantages
There are many potential benefits to sober companionship. One of the most significant advantages is that they can provide much-needed accountability. This is especially important in early recovery when people are working to establish new sober habits.
Sober companions can also be a great source of support and encouragement. They can help you stay motivated on your journey to sobriety and provide practical advice based on their own experience in recovery.
Another helpful component of sober companionship is how they can help an individual integrate themselves into the sober community. Companions can also help connect their clients with sober support groups and sober social activities. Finally, they can provide resources and advice on how to maintain long-term sobriety too.
Disadvantages
Of course, there are also some potential disadvantages to consider before working with a sober companion.
One downside is that sober companionship can be expensive (though not more than most treatment options). The cost of hiring a sober companion will vary depending on their experience and location, but it’s important to factor this into your budget before making the commitment.
It can also be difficult to find experienced sober companions you trust. They certainly exist, but it’s important to do your research to make sure you’re choosing the right option.
Overall, the decision of whether or not to work with a sober companion is a personal one. If you’re considering this option, be sure to do your research and talk to your treatment team to see if it’s right for you. With the right support, sober companions can be an invaluable resource on your journey to long-term sobriety.
Sober Companion FAQs
Next, let’s go over some common questions and answers about sober companions.
Do I need to enter treatment first?
No. Some of our clients come to us following residential treatment programs. In some cases, the residential treatment was successful but the client wants to ensure their long-term success.
Other times, they might not have had success in a residential program so they’re looking for an alternative. However, it is not necessary to enter treatment before hiring a sober companion.
Many of our clients choose to hire a sober companion right off the bat, while others choose this option to continue their sobriety after rehab.
What does a sober companion cost?
The price of sober companionship is determined by the job and the client’s demands. The cost per day of services may differ, but on average they are equivalent to the mid-range residential program’s daily cost. At present, most major insurance companies are unable to reimburse sober companion services.
Is a sober coach the same as a companion?
Not quite. A sober coach is more like a sober companion’s sober cousin. They may have many of the same qualifications but sober coaching is not as intensive as companions. They also don’t live with their clients and typically work fewer hours than sober companions do.
Sober coaches can be extremely helpful for people in early recovery who need accountability and support but may not need or want the level of intensity that a sober companion provides.
Sober coaches can help with things like:
- Finding and maintaining employment
- Developing and sticking to a treatment plan
- Navigating early sobriety
- Dealing with cravings and triggers
- Improving communication skills
- Building a sober social network
At Elysian Sober Services, our coaches check in with clients once a day. They also meet with the client five days a week face-to-face to provide better treatment, in addition to being available 24/7 by phone.
Sober coaches can be an important part of someone’s sober support team but they are not for everyone, just like sober companions. It’s helpful to do your research and explore your options to determine the best fit.
What are a sober companion’s qualifications?
A sober companion is someone who has been sober for an extended period of time and who can provide support and guidance to someone who is struggling with addiction. They are usually hired by the family or friends of someone who is struggling with addiction, but they can also be hired by rehab facilities or sober living homes.
Who are they right for?
Sober companionship is not right for everyone. In order to be successful, you must be committed to your sobriety and willing to put in the work required to maintain it. A sober companion can help hold you accountable and provide support during difficult times, but they cannot do the work for you.
However, if in-patient rehabilitation isn’t an option, companions can be an excellent alternative. It can also be a helpful option for those coming out of in-patient treatment who want to give themselves the best chances of long-term success on their sobriety journey.
What We Offer As A Sober Companion
Finally, let’s talk more about what we offer for sober companionship at Elysian Sober Services. Our sober companions are highly-trained and experienced in helping people struggling with addiction to achieve and maintain long-term sobriety. They work closely with you to create a personalized plan that fits your unique needs and helps you reach your goals.
Our multi-faceted approach includes:
Living in recovery
- Preparing the living space and making sure the home environment is free from drugs and alcohol
- 24/7 or partial live-in accountability
- Redirecting negative behavior is not conducive to recovery
Teaching recovery
- Encouraging healthy sleep habits to help with daily sober living
- Incorporating and educating about healthy eating habits
- Encouraging fitness and wellness practices
- Assisting with daily practices that will help prevent relapse
Communication
- Helping to establish a network of positive influences who will support recovery
- Sharing and communicating concerns about long-term recovery
- Encouraging self-esteem building activities
- Repairing and strengthening relationships, including with family members
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. The sooner you get treatment, the better your chances are of achieving long-term sobriety. Call to learn more about the sober services we offer in Port St. Lucie. We can help you take the first step on your journey to recovery today.
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