Did you know that children from single-parent families are at a substantially higher risk of drug involvement than dual-parent families? It can be disheartening to hear this, as single parents already struggle in many areas. Single-parent families tend to have less money, less quality time with their children and more negative emotions such as guilt and blame.
Since it’s May, we’re going to focus on single mothers and their connection to substance use. It’s important to know that help is available for mothers in the form of therapy, medication, education and support.
Single Mothers More Vulnerable to Stress
In 2022, roughly 15.31 million children were living with a single mother in the United States, compared to 3.27 million children living with a single father. The U.S. has the world’s highest rate of children living in single-parent families. In comparison, 3 percent of children in China, 4 percent of children in Nigeria and 5 percent of children in India live in single-parent households.
Single mothers, in particular, are at a greater risk for high stress levels due to raising children on their own with limited relief. They are also more likely to live in poverty and be in relationships with domestic abuse. As a result, single mothers are more vulnerable to substance use problems.
Gender Differences in Substance Use
Substance use in women tends to develop into addiction faster than in men. Women are also more likely to self-medicate with illicit substances, and more likely to experience intense cravings and relapse.
With this knowledge, it’s believed that single mothers often turn to drugs or alcohol to cope with the stress they are experiencing. They are most likely to use prescription medications or alcohol to numb their emotions and cope with anxiety. However, these outlets only provide temporary relief, and they can start the path to addiction.
Arizona Rehab for Single Mothers
To break the cycle of substance use, it’s imperative that single mothers get the treatment they deserve. Otherwise, they can become trapped in a cycle of addiction and pass this down to their children.
Fear is often what stops a single mother from getting the help she needs. Who will take care of her children? What will other mothers think? Could she lose custody? Does she have the money to pay for rehab?
Wolf Creek Recovery offers personalized substance use and mental health treatment services. As an outpatient drug rehab in AZ, our clients are able to spend plenty of time with their families. Many of our clients have children and jobs, so we can help you or your loved one find this balance as well.
To learn more about our outpatient treatment center in AZ, contact Wolf Creek Recovery today. Our owners have been through this before and can offer the caring, compassionate attention single mothers deserve.
Finding purpose in pain is what Jonathon does best. He is a strong advocate for those suffering from substance use disorders. As a person in recovery, Jonathon knows how important it is to receive empathy and compassion. He recognizes that each person comes from a different set of circumstances and deserves to be valued and respected.
With a fresh perspective and compassionate attitude, Jonathon works closely with clients to help them let go of the past and know when to take necessary risks. The recovery process is ongoing, which means people need to move forward while applying the skills learned in treatment. Jonathon is a great motivator when it comes time for this!
Jonathon also places emphasis on the family unit and how it can make or break the recovery experience. Individuals with active, supportive families have far better outcomes. Jonathon realizes that it’s impossible to move mountains overnight, but with the right support team and positive attitude, anything is possible.
