Addiction, also known as substance use disorder, is listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) as a chronic, relapsing brain disorder.
The Mayo Clinic defines substance use disorder as a “disease that affects a person’s brain and behavior and leads to an inability to control the use of a legal or illegal drug or medication.” Relapse is defined by the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM), “as the recurrence of behavioral or other substantive indicators of active disease after a period of remission.” According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, 40% to 60% of people relapse after drug treatment. Clinical treatment studies estimate that more than two-thirds of individuals relapse within weeks to months of initiating treatment.
Sober Companion
A sober companion can help a person dealing with substance abuse issues bridge the gap between the high structure and accountability that comes with attending a residential substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment program and the lack of structure that occurs when returning home. Sober companions provide one-on-one support, guidance, connection, motivation, and accountability to mentor clients who are in recovery maintain sobriety, and prevent relapse. Although there are currently no federal or state licensing standards for sober companions, many who enter this field are trained in addiction recovery and come from a variety of backgrounds including clinical or medical professions, residential or outpatient recovery settings, or social services arenas. Sober companions offer personalized support and companionship for recent and even long-time patients recovering from substance abuse and/ or addiction. The role of a sober companion may include helping to:
- Prepare one’s living space for sobriety
- Encourage regular sleep habits
- Plan a healthy diet
- Arrange or provide transportation to appointments and/ or meetings
- Develop daily practices to help prevent relapse
- Cultivate a network of positive people who will support an individual throughout his or her recovery process
- Engage in actions that build self-esteem
- Promote participation in the activities related to one’s recovery community
The cost of a sober companion can range anywhere from $900 a day to $1,900 and will depend on the demands of the job and the needs of the client.
Further Information and Support
Navigating the challenges that arise from living with mental illness, struggling with substance abuse, and/ or addiction can not only be all-consuming but are often impossible to effectively handle without proper support. If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one regarding mental illness, substance abuse, and/ or addiction we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. Bear in mind that you do not have to be on this journey alone. At Upwell Advisors, we offer unique, customized concierge therapeutic services to provide our clients with unparalleled support throughout every step of the recovery process.
Feel free to reach to contact us anytime via email at [email protected] We look forward to supporting you on your journey.
