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Drug Treatment Options For Single Mothers

The weight of motherhood can seem suffocating at times.

For mothers that also struggle with substance abuse and/ or addiction, it is virtually impossible to simultaneously care for children and satisfy one’s addiction. It is highly common for mothers struggling with substance abuse and/ or addiction to feel they are without realistic treatment options, as they attempt to juggle the possibilities of substance abuse treatment options with the demands of motherhood. While putting one’s children’s wants and needs above oneself has become deeply ingrained in American culture, when it comes to substance abuse and/ or addiction this is not the case. As a mother, obtaining treatment for substance abuse struggles is essential, as it is impossible to properly and safely care for one’s children while actively abusing drugs and/ or alcohol. 

single mother with child

Treatment Options

There are a variety of treatment options available for those in need. The two primary structures for substance abuse and addiction treatment programs are divided between inpatient treatment programs and outpatient treatment programs. Inpatient treatment programs offer a fully immersive experience, as they require an individual to reside at the treatment facility for the duration of her treatment program. Inpatient treatment programs create tailored treatment plans that are made up of a variety of therapeutic modalities. Inpatient treatment programs can provide a woman with the opportunity to practice implementing the skills she is learning in the program without distractions. Residing at the treatment facility allows for the continued reinforcement of new, healthy, daily habits and patterns that are established. For mothers that may require intense treatment, an inpatient program may be the best way to go.

Alternatively, outpatient treatment programs can be a successful option for women in need of substance abuse treatment. Outpatient treatment programs allow an individual to reside at home while attending a certain number of daily treatment program hours. Offering many of the same therapeutic modalities as inpatient treatment programs, outpatient treatment can equip an individual with the tools needed to remain sober. Outpatient treatment programs provide a safe and supportive environment to practice the learned skills, which can be fundamental to one’s success. Regardless of the type of treatment program selected, working through the recovery process will require an exorbitant amount of self-reflection, commitment, and dedication. Securing proper childcare is not only necessary, but can also be instrumental to one’s recovery and continued success. 

Childcare Possibilities

One of the largest concerns for a mother considering attending a substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment program is childcare. Each family will likely require a different level of support when it comes to childcare. There are some outpatient treatment programs that offer daily childcare services while the individual is attending her treatment program. For mothers with school aged children, there may be outpatient treatment programs that hold hours during the school day, which would cover childcare needs while allowing the mother to attend the program. For women that attend an outpatient treatment program and have younger children, they may consider hiring a babysitter to care for the children during the daily treatment hours. Depending on the age of the children, sending them to daycare could also be an option that would allow a mother to attend an outpatient treatment program. 

Twenty-four-hour childcare will be necessary for an individual that attends an inpatient treatment program. Some mothers may opt to send their children to stay with a family member or close family friends while she is in treatment. For women attending an inpatient treatment program that do not have friends or family as a viable childcare option, hiring a live-in nanny may be an alternative. When no workable living arrangements can be made for children while their mother attends a substance abuse treatment program, and it is in the best interest of the children they may be temporarily placed in state custody. 

Further Information

Substance abuse and addiction can be incredibly dangerous.

If you or someone you know is suffering from substance abuse or addiction, please get help as soon as possible. The earlier you seek support, the sooner you and your loved ones can return to happy, healthy and fulfilling lives. There is no reason to go through this alone. Please feel free to reach out to us for further information or with any questions regarding substance abuse or addiction. 

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