OK, DUers- I need advice, and this is not a political post

[tulipsandroses]

24. Do they have resources to go to a sober living program? If they don't perhaps Salvation Army or some

other community resource may be able to help. I would suggest that they live in a sober living home. As much as relatives would like to help, sometimes its better for loved ones with substance abuse issues to live in more structured environments where they will be accountable. The Salvation Army program may be a short term solution though. Or it may differ in different states. The clients I've had that went through Salvation Army were there for about 3 months. I may have encountered some that were court ordered and did 6 months. . Point is, there needs to be a plan in place for them to not only maintain their sobriety but as you said get on their feet and get healthy.

Is there someone at their current treatment program that you can speak to? A social worker, case manager? They are usually familiar with local after care facilities or sober living houses in the area.

Personally, that is what I would do. If they are financially crunched, perhaps pay for the first few months of the sober living. Usually, you are not only required to maintain sobriety, random drug testing, but required to maintain employment, go to meetings, etc while living in a sober living program.

Find a reputable one, if you go this route. As with so many things, there are people and facilities doing this only for money. Unfortunately, I have heard horror stories from clients who went to unscrupulous sober living houses. But there are many with good experiences that are doing well, learning to live on their own while maintaining their sobriety.

Also see if there is a community mental health center in your area, if they don't have insurance. Substance Abuse falls under the umbrella of mental health. They should have aftercare even if they don't go to a sober living home.