Rehab as a Single Parent: 5 Appealing Rehab Features for Single Parents
Addiction is an emotionally, psychologically, and physically demanding hurdle to conquer. The sacrifices required to enter—and successfully complete—rehabilitation can be a complicated matter, particularly when children are involved.
For single parents, starting rehab can sometimes seem an impossible feat, but today there are various facilities and programs that specifically cater to families in need—including single parents. Read on to learn about 5 rehab features that single parents may find helpful.
1. Finding a Dual Diagnosis Treatment Facility
For single parents, recognizing their substance misuse and taking the steps toward recovery is only half the battle. One of the most well-known programs used in rehabs is the 12-step program, which specifically tackles detox and a plan for abstaining from drugs or alcohol. However, the program does not address mental health issues.
Rehab facilities that cater to single parents may offer dual diagnosis treatment. Substance misuse may begin as the result of a mental health issue, such as depression or anxiety, so treatment for co-occurring disorders may be necessary.
2. Choosing a Residential or Family Addiction Treatment Program
One reason that many single mothers and fathers put off going to rehab is because they’re unable to find a family member or trusted friend to act as guardian. Depending on the rehab facility, particularly for single mothers or pregnant women, there are programs that have residential or family programs. These programs often allow mothers to bring up to two children to stay with them in rehab.
Inpatient addiction treatment programs may help single parents successfully complete their rehab treatment, which may provide them with strategies and preparedness to avoid relapse in the future. Avoiding repeat rehab stays can help single parents continue their parenting without interruption.
3. Parental Coaching During Rehab
Parental coaching is sometimes offered during addiction recovery to address the emotional strain between parent and child. During the course of addiction, children may have encountered abuse and neglect. Parent coaching allows the parent to acknowledge and take responsibility in order to begin repairing the damage done. Parents learn new life-long skills to effectively communicate with their children.
Parental coaching may include efforts and strategies that help parents address and cope with the effects of their addiction on their children. Parents will work to take responsibility for their choices and actions and understand the impact those choices and actions had on their children. In taking accountability for addiction and its aftereffects, parents will be able to move forward in their recovery and begin work on rebuilding their relationships with their children.
4. Engaging in Alternative Therapies
Along with dual diagnosis and substance misuse treatment, facilities may offer alternative therapies that people in recovery can continue to practice throughout their life. Practices such as yoga and meditation are examples of alternative therapy that can be used to tackle cravings, relapse triggers, and stress.
It may be beneficial to get involved in activities that serve as a distraction from drugs and alcohol. Art and music therapy, among other types of classes, may be offered in rehab, and these types of activities can also be a helpful way to connect with your children after treatment.
5. Continued Aftercare & Recovery Support
How does a recovering single parent adjust back into being the head of household? Many may feel that once rehab is over, you’re on your own; however, having an ongoing recovery aftercare program plan is crucial for relapse prevention.
Recovery centers offer aftercare programs to help people maintain sobriety throughout the rest of their lives. Those who have completed rehab have access to aftercare support such as relapse prevention groups, sober living homes, and individual counseling sessions.
It is important to have a recovery support network so that you can continue to work on maintaining your sobriety over time. Without that support, it can be difficult to avoid triggers and maintain recovery.
Finding Addiction Treatment as a Single Parent
As a single parent, it can be difficult to prioritize self-care, but finding treatment for your substance use disorder is imperative so that you can be the kind of parent you want to be for your children.
If you are unsure about how to find the right facility for you, one that may even allow you to bring your children with you while you are obtaining treatment, then reach out to American Addiction Centers (AAC) today.
If you like, you can verify your insurance coverage or browse our treatment directory online now. You can also speak with one of our admissions navigators 24/7 at and they can provide you with the free information and support that you need.