Recovery is hard, but what about recovery as a mom? Imagine waking up every day trying to hold yourself together while also trying to hold a family together. Daily pressures don’t pause just because she’s trying to recover. If anything, they intensify, and that’s the reality for many mothers navigating substance use disorder (SUD) in Pennsylvania as they remain underserved and understudied. In particular, opioid dependency can deeply affect families, and mothers are often at the center of this crisis. Their needs are real, and if we continue not to meet them, entire family units could suffer.
Our residential treatment center in Port Matilda acknowledges and supports moms. We incorporate evidence-based, family-centered services and treatments that meet mothers and their families where they are. Here’s what we’ve learned so far:
- Moms are more likely to engage in treatment when their kids are allowed to stay or visit with them during recovery.
- Family-centered programs prioritize not just the woman in recovery but her children, her partner, and the entire family dynamic.
- Parenting education and support are key to these programs, especially for moms who want to reconnect with their children and gain confidence in their mothering.
We believe that when women feel supported as both people and caregivers, staying in treatment and later staying substance-free is more feasible and rewarding. As more professionals, clinicians, and therapists get behind this thought process, prioritizing healing for mothers and their families can gain the funding, research, and spotlight it deserves.
What Do Moms in Recovery Face?
The development of SUD doesn’t happen in a vacuum, nor does recovery. For many mothers, recovery means navigating finances, childcare, and harsh judgment while performing one of the most stressful roles in society. While men may face greater feelings of stigmatization and are less likely to seek treatment for SUD or mental health issues, women in recovery may face a more intense set of economic and societal challenges.
Here are some of the most common difficulties moms in recovery face:
- Strained family relationships. Moms often have deeper ties to family life, which may mean more emotional baggage to carry throughout therapy. Recovery can be complicated by emotional distance from loved ones and dependents, poor communication at home, and lack of support from partners, especially those who still use substances.
- Stigma and shame. Society can be especially cruel toward mothers who struggle with SUD. The fear of being seen as an unfit mother may block women from seeking help, sharing their struggles, or simply admitting they have an issue, even with those closest to them.
- Limited access to services. Many moms want holistic treatment options that integrate the whole family, and, if available, often find programs that allow children to remain with them particularly attractive. Still, these services aren’t always available or accessible. However, intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) may be viable alternatives.
- Complex family dynamics. While women often want their families involved in recovery, they may also fear the emotional fallout that could follow. Unhealed wounds, past traumas, or familial discord can make family involvement feel overwhelming or even demotivating.
Every mother’s journey is different, but their desire to heal for themselves and their children is a powerful common thread. These moms deserve recovery spaces that reflect that.
How Can You Help?
Supporting a mom in recovery means actively contributing to her healing. Your encouragement and understanding might make all the difference, whether you’re a family member, partner, or close friend.
Offer Unconditional Support
Recovery can dredge up guilt, fear, and self-doubt for you as a mom or for you as a child of a mother struggling with SUD. Your consistent, empathetic presence might help you both stay grounded.
- Remind her of her progress, even when there’s a setback or relapse episode.
- Be open to learning about her recovery education and process.
- Respect her boundaries while letting her know you care.
Be a Safe Space
Many mothers face emotional strain from past family and personal history. Offering a supportive environment may help lower stress for everyone and allow her to better focus on managing cravings and solidifying healthy coping skills.
- Practice patient, non-judgmental listening.
- Encourage open communication.
- Recognize that her journey will take time and commitment.
Get Involved in Family Services in Port Matilda
St. Joseph Institute for Addiction offers family-centered care for mothers and their loved ones in Port Matilda and Wexford, PA. Our programs hone in on healing for the whole family, not just the individual. Together, we can explore:
- Therapy sessions.
- Creating a recovery-friendly living environment.
- Child-friendly treatment options that help families stay together.
When families walk through recovery together, they not only support their mom but also help her build a foundation for long-term wellness, freedom, and stronger relationships. Contact us today to learn more!
