Moms play one of the most critical roles in a child’s life and the community. Most mothers would do anything necessary to protect and care for their children. However, drug and alcohol abuse can shake the foundation of a family. It can prevent mothers from being able to take care of themselves or the people they love.
Mothers often face additional barriers to getting treatment for addiction. While recovering from addiction can be incredibly challenging, the benefits of long-term sobriety are endless.
This article will provide helpful tips for moms in recovery.
What you will learn:
- How addiction affects moms specifically
- The barriers moms can face in recovery
- Tips for maintaining long-term sobriety
- Where to find treatment and support in recovery
If you or a mom in your life requires addiction treatment, you are not alone. The Carolina Center for Recovery offers comprehensive treatment programs and support for mothers in recovery. Reach out with questions, to learn about our substance abuse treatment programs, or to schedule an intake appointment.
How Does Addiction Affect Moms?
A mother’s love is stronger than almost anything on earth. However, drug and alcohol abuse can change people’s behavior, emotions, and other core aspects of who they are. The disease of addiction can impact anyone. However, it can affect mothers in unique ways.
Many mothers struggle with underlying issues that are unique to motherhood. These include:
- Chronic perfectionism
- A history of trauma
- Overwhelming stress
- Feelings of isolation or loneliness
- Low self-esteem or self-worth
- Relationship problems
- A lack of meaning or purpose in life
Many mothers believe they are solely responsible for their family’s health and happiness. Single mothers, married mothers, and mothers in all other situations may experience intense pressure to “do it all.” This can lead to intense and ongoing stress.
Many mothers live with undiagnosed, untreated mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety. These conditions put mothers at higher risk of developing substance use disorder (SUD).
What Barriers Do Moms Face in Recovery?
Mothers often play a very important role in their families. They may be the primary caregiver—or the only caregiver–for their children. They may have to balance work, their children’s and family’s needs, and much more. It can be challenging for some mothers to get the help they need.
Some of the unique barriers mothers in recovery face include:
- Spending time away from kids
- Giving up a coping method they’ve relied on for sometime
- Worrying about the cost of getting treatments
- The negative stigma attached to mothers with addiction
Mothers may not always feel comfortable seeking treatment. They may worry about how to pay for treatment, losing time with their children, or continuing to manage their household while in rehab. These concerns can prevent moms from getting help when they need it most.
5 Tips For Moms in Recovery
Addiction recovery is not a final destination. Instead, it is a lifelong journey requiring time, patience, and support. Here are five tips to help mothers manage recovery and get the help they need.
1. Practice self-care
Many mothers find it challenging to take care of their own needs. However, repeatedly ignoring your physical, social, and emotional needs can result in stress and resentment.
It is important to practice good self-care. This does not mean taking the occasional bubble bath. Instead, it means structuring your life to prioritize your mental, social, and physical health.
Good self-care includes:
- Getting regular exercise
- Eating well
- Prioritizing rest and sleep
- Spending time with friends and family
Taking care of yourself during recovery is more important than ever. Tending to your own needs can help you stay sober, allowing you to be the best mother and person possible.
2. Find a purpose
Finding a new purpose and sobriety is essential to long-term recovery. You may explore spiritual practices or find a new way to connect with others. Volunteering for a cause you support, reconnecting with old hobbies or friends, or finding meaningful employment may help you discover your purpose and recovery.
3. Process emotions
It is easy to get stuck in a place of resentment, bitterness, or shame. While these feelings are common among moms in recovery, they can prevent people from moving forward.
Work with a mental health therapist, sober coach, or counselor to process your emotions and experiences.
4. Incorporate family into your recovery
It is critical to involve your partner, children, and other family members in your recovery. Attempting to manage everything on your own might feel isolating.
Including your family members in your recovery journey can keep you accountable and help you feel less alone as you work toward lifelong sobriety.
Ask for help when you need it. Encourage other family members to take on more responsibilities so that you can stay focused on your recovery.
5. Get support
It is critical to ensure you have adequate support in recovery. Surrounding yourself with supportive friends, family, and other community members can make the recovery journey more meaningful. Join a sober mom’s group, find recovery support group meetings, and connect with other community resources.
Treatment for Moms in Addiction Recovery
Addiction treatment is not a one-size-fits-all process. However, most addiction treatment programs provide a combination of evidence-based and holistic treatments. These may include:
- Medical detox programs
- Medications
- Individual, group, and family therapy
- Relapse prevention education
- Behavioral therapies
- Coping skills
- Holistic therapies like art therapy, mindfulness, nutrition support, and yoga
- Aftercare planning and support
Participating in a comprehensive addiction treatment program can help you take steps that support your lifelong recovery journey.
Find Treatment and Support
If you or a mother in your life requires substance abuse treatment, compassionate treatment is available at the Carolina Center for Recovery. Contact our intake staff to learn about our treatment and support programs or schedule an intake appointment.