The relationship between addiction and motherhood is never a functional one, but the love a mother has for her children can be a powerful motivator to get and stay sober. Although focusing on recovery at the same time you are caring for children can be stressful and challenging, it is always best for the entire family to seek treatment and prioritize your sobriety. However, even when someone wants more than anything to find freedom from their addiction so they can be a loving and stable parent, it is important to remember that substance use disorders are complex and difficult to beat without proper support.
Get Support from Other Sober Moms
An important aspect of recovery as a mother is building a strong system of support from other moms who have been in your shoes. While it is crucial to surround yourself with supportive friends and family members, only other moms in recovery can understand the unique challenges that come from parenting in early sobriety. Many mothers have the tendency to take on more than they can handle and decline help from others when they should be taking a break for their own mental health. This is especially true for moms in recovery who need to focus on stress-management and anxiety relief to protect their sobriety. Having friends who understand where you are coming from makes it easier to reach out for help.
Manage Emotions in a Healthy Way
In addition to excess stress and the pressure of responsibility, many mothers in recovery suffer from severe shame and guilt over their past behavior or poor parenting decisions during active addiction. While recognizing past mistakes and committing to a better future is important and healthy in recovery, too much guilt and shame can lower your self-esteem and put you at risk of relapse. Talk to a professional such as a therapist or addiction expert about your feelings of guilt or shame, and find a positive way to release those emotions, ultimately allowing you to become the best version of yourself for you and your children.
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, now is the time to reach out for help. At Arbor Behavioral Healthcare, you will meet knowledgeable, compassionate professionals who 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 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 today at 844-413-2690.