We at Sisters of Sobriety believe that developing a social network that supports ongoing sobriety is a key component to sustain long-term recovery. Residents are encouraged to provide mutual support and encouragement for recovery with fellow peers in the house. Those who have been in the house the longest and who have more time in recovery are especially encouraged to provide support to new residents. This type of “giving back” is consistent with a principle of recovery in 12-step groups. Residents are also encouraged to avoid friends and family who might encourage them to use alcohol and drugs, particularly individuals with whom they have used substances in the past. Many people believe that recovery is abstinence from alcohol and drug use and relapse only occurs when one begins to use alcohol and drugs. Abstinence from alcohol and drug use is necessary for recovery but it is not recovery in itself. Living in a drug free, safe environment at Sisters of Sobriety will teach residents how to live a lifestyle without alcohol and drug use behaviors. This is the critical aspect of recovery, in teaching residents to learn how to cope with the stress of life without returning to the use of alcohol and drugs.