Being a single mother is one of the most challenging jobs imaginable. The tireless demands of parenting become even more exhausting when you have to shoulder most of the burden on your own. It can feel tempting to reach for alcohol and drugs to help you relax and cope with the complexities of life, but the growing presence of an addiction can magnify your problems further. If you’re struggling with a dependence on toxic substances as a single mom, what steps should you take to get help?
1. Overcome Stigma
The ingrained stigma surrounding substance abuse disorders says people who develop addictions have failed in life. Single parents also face more judgment from society, despite the prevalence of single-parent households in America.
The weight of these dual stigmas can prevent many solo moms from seeking the treatment they need to make a full recovery. But remember, nobody can understand precisely what you’ve gone through, and what circumstances have shaped your life. Addiction is a brain disease that requires a comprehensive approach to treatment.
2. Fight Your Fears
Many single mothers feel anxious or intimidated about going to rehab because they aren’t sure what to expect. They allow their worries to keep them in thrall to the cycle of addiction, instead of seeking constructive solutions to the problem.
You might be afraid that admitting to the extent of your substance abuse will lead to someone taking your kids away. However, your children deserve to grow up in the healthiest, happiest environment you can provide, and completing an accredited treatment program is the only way you can make that a reality for them.
3. Rely on Your Sober Supporters
Addiction recovery for single mothers requires dedication – not only on your part, but also from your loved ones. You might have heard that addiction is a family disease, which means it impacts everyone in the familial unit. Find a rehab program that offers family treatment, so you can repair damaged relationships and learn how to move forward together.
4. Explore Treatment Options for Single Mothers
Perhaps you’ve envisioned that addiction recovery can only take place in a facility away from home that removes you from familiar surroundings and limits your contact with the outside world. You might understandably worry about who will look after your children while you’re in treatment – especially if you have younger kids. The good news is that options such as intensive outpatient treatment allow you to take care of your family while you pursue sustained sobriety. With this programming, you can participate in life-saving therapy during the day, and return home to be a mom every evening.
Recovering for Your Kids
When you don’t have a partner helping you raise your children, you could hesitate to ask for the assistance you need because you don’t want to be a burden. Thinking about what’s best for your kids and for you can help you overcome any misgivings about treatment and allow you to move forward with confidence.
At Canyon Crossing, we have made it possible for women to achieve lifelong freedom and happiness with our gender-specific programming. Contact us to learn more and verify your insurance coverage.