Being a parent is hard. Being a working parent is harder. Being a working mom can sometimes feel impossible. Research has shown that while men are taking on more household chores and childcare duties than ever before, moms are handling a disproportionate amount of the workload, regardless of whether they have a day job. This extra responsibility, known as “the second shift”, can lead to stress-induced anxiety and depression, and even substance abuse. Coupled with the popularity of “wine mom” culture which encourages alcohol use as a way to manage the stressors of parenthood, working moms are increasingly finding themselves addicted to alcohol. There is no denying that being a working mother to small children is hectic and exhausting, despite its many rewards. The pressure to focus on your career, figure out childcare, keep up household chores, and still find quality time to spend with your family can become overwhelming. If you find yourself using alcohol to cope, you are not alone. In fact, you most likely have seen other parents in similar situations advocating for nightly wine or playdate margaritas. The truth is that these moms may be questioning their relationship with alcohol themselves and encouraging its use as a way to normalize their own behavior. Alcohol has tremendously negative effects on women. Women metabolize alcohol less effectively than men, and drinking alcohol significantly increases your risk of various health problems including breast cancer. Aside from the frightening health risks, addiction can take a serious toll on your mental health and your ability to safely care for your children. Parents who drink are far more likely to abuse or neglect their children, and in the best of scenarios are emotionally distant and inattentive. If you are a mom who drinks, and you are questioning your relationship with alcohol, now is a great time to seek help.
At Arbor Behavioral Healthcare, you will meet knowledgeable, compassionate professionals that understand addiction in all its forms. The Arbor uses an integrative and holistic approach to treat addiction and mental health issues. No treatment is one-size-fits-all, and at The Arbor you will have a team of experts prepared to create your customized treatment plan. We offer care for your mind, body, and spirit, so that you can heal from the inside out and look forward to a lifetime of sobriety and wellness. If you are ready to take the first step in your recovery, please call us at 844-413-2690.