Women are often given the greatest gift and challenge of being the one their kids want to be with most. Being a mom is hard work, and being a single mother is even harder.
Now, try being a single mother in recovery from substance abuse, and this can be one of life’s greatest challenges. But don’t worry: there is hope for moms looking to rock their recovery journey and motherhood.
Nobody does recovery, or motherhood, alone. Those who succeed in doing these things have not done it without mistakes.
Try to focus on what you can do, instead of what you can’t, and take it one step at a time. Below, we’ll talk about some ways you can rock recovery while being the best mom you can be.
Build Community
The daily task of feeding, teaching, bathing, and caring for your kids is daunting. Combined with the challenges of managing substance use disorders, these tasks can feel downright impossible without help.
Your recovery community is the best place to connect with others who understand. There might be a single mom’s group but maybe it is just the local recovery group. Try meeting others who can help once in a while with kids. Ask them to take them for you so you can get some rest, take a break, or simply get out and do yoga once in a while. Reach out to loved ones who are willing to help. Seek support in the community and always remember to keep sobriety first and foremost.
Let Go of Toxic People
Just as much as the community is important, so is releasing toxic relationships. This might be a partner who is not sober, a sober partner who is not doing well in recovery, or a partner who is not available for the kids.
Don’t let them drag down your recovery and life as a single mom. Things are hard enough, so don’t let this get in the way of what you want.
You should reserve the right to change your mind any time and cut ties if the relationship is going south. Do this for yourself, but also for your kids, who need a strong mother to show them how to navigate life in this season.
Get Help
Don’t be afraid to reach out to therapists for help. Ask for low cost and budget counseling options.
The important thing is the kids have someone to talk to, away from you, but to also give you space to talk about what is happening. Addiction recovery is not easy, especially with kids at home.
Seek out ways to get help and find support for yourself before trying to be a superhero to the kids. Get everyone the help they need and you can begin to thrive on this journey.
Self Care
Nothing is more critical than self-care. You are caring for babies, toddlers, young kids, or even teenagers. Sometimes you are doing all those at the same time. If you are worn out then you cannot provide care for someone else.
Make sure you are getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and getting quality time alone. Self-care is important for mothers, but usually the last on the list.
If you are not tending your own garden, weeds grow. Those weeds can push you towards relapse over time.
Don’t jeopardize recovery because you didn’t take care of yourself first. Remember: your oxygen mask first, then the kids.
Mind Your Mental Health
Being a single mom is tough, especially if you are going through a crisis like an addiction. It’s crucial to take care of your mental health to make sure you are staying strong. Mental health is all about minding your own mind. Look into ways you can keep your mind sharp and focused on healthy ways of living and thinking.
Maybe you cannot leave your house to go to yoga or meditation classes. You can go online and find hundreds of free courses. You can join a fitness club online and find people to do things with, or you can find a gym that offers childcare. You can try getting therapy or doing daily meditation and prayer. Most importantly, get to recovery groups and find ways to share positive things happening in your life.
Try Childcare Options
Ask around to friends and family. Find ways to get help for the kids so you can go out and work or take care of yourself.
Recovery programs, church groups, and service providers often help with children. Ask for what is needed.
Being connected to childcare gives you a chance to breathe, take care of your sobriety, and find ways to give back to the kids in a healthy way.
Expect things to look difficult. They are going to be hard, but they are also going to get better.
One step at a time, baby steps, towards a better future always takes time. Focus on what you can do now so you can do better in the future, for you and your kids.
Casa Capri helps women from all walks of life. If you are a single mother, we have a spot for you. You can come and learn about recovery and how to navigate healing from addiction with support from our professional staff. Call us to find out how we can help you: 844-593-8020
FAQs
How can I balance the recovery process with raising a child as a single mom?
Balancing the recovery process and parenting can be challenging, but prioritizing your mental health is crucial. Outpatient treatment programs often provide flexible options to help single moms maintain their responsibilities while seeking treatment. Support groups and family therapy can also create a network of understanding individuals who offer practical and emotional assistance.
What types of mental health services administration are available for single moms in recovery?
There are a variety of services designed to support single moms, including outpatient treatment, individual therapy sessions, family therapy, and programs that address mental health issues and substance abuse. Organizations like the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offer resources to help single moms navigate recovery and access affordable care.
How does family therapy benefit single moms in recovery?
Family therapy can help repair relationships with family members and create a supportive environment for recovery. It provides a safe space to address mental health issues, practice self-compassion, and rebuild trust, benefiting both the parent and the child.
Are there programs specifically designed for pregnant women in recovery?
Yes, certain recovery programs offer specialized support for pregnant women dealing with substance abuse issues or mental health challenges. These programs ensure both the mother’s and baby’s health are prioritized throughout the recovery process.
Can I seek treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder while recovering from substance abuse
Yes, many recovery programs address co-occurring disorders, such as substance abuse and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Dialectical behavior therapy and other evidence-based methods are often used to treat mental health and substance abuse issues simultaneously.
How can I find support groups for single moms in recovery?
Support groups tailored to single moms in recovery are available both in-person and online. These groups provide a space to share experiences, seek advice, and practice self-compassion, creating a community to help navigate challenges during the recovery process.
What steps can I take to manage mental health while raising a child and recovering?
Managing mental health as a single mom in recovery involves practicing self-compassion, seeking treatment for mental health issues or substance abuse when needed, and utilizing outpatient treatment or family therapy for additional support. Building a strong support group can also help you stay resilient.
What role do family members play in the recovery process for single moms?
Family members can play a vital role by offering emotional support, participating in family therapy, and helping single moms stay committed to their recovery goals. Their involvement can strengthen relationships and improve outcomes for both the mom and her child.
How does mental illness impact the recovery process for single moms?
Mental illness can add complexity to the recovery process, but with the right treatment plan, including outpatient care, family therapy, and support groups, single moms can manage their mental health effectively. Addressing mental health issues alongside substance abuse is key to long-term recovery.
How can I practice self-compassion while navigating recovery and motherhood?
Practicing self-compassion is crucial for single moms in recovery. This can involve acknowledging your progress, allowing yourself to seek treatment without guilt, and leaning on support groups and mental health professionals for guidance. Self-care routines and mindfulness can also help maintain balance.
