Losing a loved one is a challenging experience, one made even harder when it is a child. Many parents have loving expectations for their lives after their child is born, like looking forward to holding them close, taking their first steps, and even starting school. However, many parents never get the opportunity to experience life with their children due to pregnancy complications. This experience can be devastating, bringing their world crashing down on them. A loss like this can be so impactful that it leads to extremely unhealthy coping methods, like drinking.
If you or a loved one has recently experienced a pregnancy loss and has turned to alcohol to try and cope, we may be able to help. At The Arbor, our alcohol addiction treatment programs work to provide compassionate support to every client who walks through our doors. With in-house psychiatrists and an entire team of recovery specialists, your stay will use therapies specially chosen for your recovery journey. Call 844.413.2690 today to get started.
Alcoholism’s Impact on Pregnancy
It’s no secret that drinking alcohol during pregnancy can hurt the developing fetus. Drinking during pregnancy can also increase the risks of pregnancy loss, so it’s important to be aware of the dangers of alcohol before and after pregnancy. If you are struggling with an addiction to alcohol, it’s important to get help as soon as possible.
However, you may not know that continuing to drink after a pregnancy loss can be just as damaging. Alcohol abuse can cause serious health problems, like liver disease, cancer, and heart disease. It can also lead to problems with fertility, making it more difficult to conceive in the future.
Coping with Grief
Grief is a natural response to loss, and giving yourself time to grieve is important. However, alcohol abuse can interfere with the grieving process, making it more difficult to cope with your loss in a healthy way.
Women’s Alcohol Use After a Pregnancy Loss
A study found that women who lost a pregnancy were more likely to drink alcohol excessively than those who did not. The study’s authors believe that this is because women who lose a pregnancy may be trying to self-medicate the pain they’re feeling.
Men’s Alcohol Use After a Pregnancy Loss
While the research on men’s alcohol use after a pregnancy loss is limited, it’s possible that men may also turn to alcohol to cope with the pain of losing a child.
Signs of Alcohol Abuse
If you are concerned that you or a loved one is abusing alcohol, there are some signs for which to look out.
Some common signs of alcohol abuse include:
- Drinking more alcohol than usual
- Drinking alcohol in secret
- Lying about drinking habits
- Feeling guilty or ashamed about drinking
- Drinking alone
- Neglecting responsibilities in favor of drinking
- Experiencing financial problems due to drinking
If you notice these signs in yourself or a loved one, it’s essential to reach out for help.
Alcohol Addiction Treatment at The Arbor
At The Arbor, we understand how difficult it can be to cope with a pregnancy loss. Our alcohol addiction treatment programs are designed to provide the support and resources you need to recover from addiction and begin the grieving process.
Our inpatient treatment program includes:
- A safe and comfortable place to stay during treatment
- Around-the-clock access to support and resources
- Individualized treatment plans
- Group and individual therapy
- Family therapy
- Aftercare planning
During your stay at The Arbor, you can take advantage of our on-site amenities like personal trainers, fishing and swimming sites, and basketball courts. You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in fun activities, like yoga and hiking. Call us today at 844.413.2690 if you are ready to take the first step toward recovery.