How Do I Navigate Recovery as a Mother?
Substance use disorder (SUD) and other types of addiction know no bounds. These conditions affect individuals of all ages, genders, and walks of life. However, that is not to say that every individual will experience addiction and recovery the same way. For a mother with addiction, recovery can seem like an impossible feat. However, it is essential to understand that recovery is possible with the help of outside support.
Next Level Recovery Associates understands mothers' unique challenges and barriers when seeking lasting recovery from SUD, co-occurring disorders, and other types of addiction. We are here to provide mothers—and anyone else in need of guidance—with the knowledge and support necessary to establish and sustain lasting recovery and healing.
The Unique Experiences of Mothers in Recovery
Research from the International Journal of High Risk Behaviors & Addiction addresses that most women in addiction treatment are of childbearing age. Likewise, many women in treatment have children affected and influenced by their mother's substance abuse and other addictive behaviors.
According to the journal, women "differ from men in their patterns of substance abuse, treatment-related behaviors, and risks for relapse." Additionally, [W]omen with substance use disorders are more likely than their male counterparts to have coexisting psychiatric problems, low self-esteem, and extensive histories of traumatic life events, and to experience mood, anxiety, and eating disorders, as well as post-traumatic stress disorder." These issues can further complicate the already-challenging recovery process for mothers.
Feelings of Guilt and Shame
While anyone seeking recovery will likely face guilt and shame, mothers are uniquely susceptible to these emotions. When a mother struggles with substance abuse or co-occurring mental health disorders, these symptoms will inevitably affect her children, regardless of how old they may be. A mother's substance abuse will impact not only her children's well-being but also surface concerns regarding child custody and other financial implications.
It is also important to consider that the role of motherhood has been traditionally stereotyped and stigmatized for decades. For example, mothers are pressured to be the central caregiver. They are assumed to be able to juggle many responsibilities at any given time. Similarly, mothers must prioritize their children's and partner's needs before their own. These reasons and more can facilitate worsening feelings of guilt and shame for mothers, contributing to substance abuse and other destructive addictive behaviors.
Nonetheless, feelings of guilt and shame can be all too common for mothers seeking addiction recovery. Mothers need to seek professional treatment and support from trusted therapists equipped to navigate these feelings and associated concerns.
Treatment and Recovery Considerations for Mothers
Women, specifically mothers, experience unique barriers to treatment and recovery compared to men. Due to childcare responsibilities, mothers have reduced opportunities to participate and engage in treatment.
Recovering From Home
Individuals struggling with severe symptoms of SUD are commonly recommended to utilize a residential or intensive outpatient program (IOP). Partial hospitalization programs (PHPs) can be especially valuable for severe co-occurring disorders. However, these treatment options require high attendance and intense participation.
Residential programs require individuals to live at the facility while they receive treatment and can last anywhere from a month to two years. While IOP and PHP allow individuals to live at home, they are still required to participate in intensive treatment, anywhere from 12-30 hours a week. Even detox requires inpatient care. For a mother with childcare duties, this is rarely feasible.
One of the most notable concerns for mothers seeking addiction recovery is that they are often tasked with recovering at home. They may need to utilize virtual treatment options and support groups if they cannot afford or find someone to watch their children. Even then, it is important to consider that recovering at home leaves a mother continually exposed to environmental triggers and additional stressors. This can further complicate her recovery.
Support for Mothers
Mothers seeking recovery must identify and utilize support resources to aid them throughout their healing journey. Although this can be challenging, Next Level Recovery Associates can help.
Recovery Companions at Next Level Recovery Associates
At Next Level, we offer a variety of resources and interventions for individuals striving toward healing in their lives. One of our most notable resources is our Recovery Companion team. This team comprises highly trained professionals equipped with the support and knowledge necessary to walk alongside mothers as they journey through recovery.
A Recovery Companion is hand selected for each client based on their individualized needs and specific situation. For mothers, a recovery companion can provide advice, company, accountability, and social support, among many other things, throughout healing and recovery. In addition, they can help ease stress and added pressures that may arise for a mother beginning treatment. Companions can be used as needed and are especially valuable during high-risk times.
Mothers seeking recovery from substance use disorder, mental health disorders, and other types of addiction experience unique challenges to treatment. As so, navigating recovery as a mother can be increasingly overwhelming. Fortunately, staff at Next Level Recovery Associates can help. We offer a wide range of services and interventions, including recovery companions, that are here to walk with individuals who could benefit from additional support throughout recovery. We are here to walk with you as you navigate your healing journey confidently. If you or a loved one is ready to journey to the next level, let us take your hand. To learn more about our services, give us a call today at (561) 735-2590.