Document Type
Poster Session
Department
Social Work
Faculty Mentor
Caroline Shanti, PhD
Abstract
Mothers seeking recovery from substance use disorders face unique challenges, and treatment options that support women as both patients and as mothers are scarce. Empirical research pertaining to mothers in recovery is reflective of the limited treatment options available for this population. Recognizing that the level of perceived support from providers during early recovery can greatly impact overall outcomes, this study is designed to investigate the individual experiences of mothers as they seek treatment and begin their journey to recovery. Investigators used semi-structured interviews with open-ended questions to capture the emotional and logistical obstacles faced by mothers seeking inpatient treatment that meets their unique needs. Subjects were residing at a residential treatment and recovery home in Southern Maine at the time of interview. Findings of this study will be shared with community partners including the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Office of Maine’s Department of Health and Human Services and the Portland Recovery Community Center. The purpose of sharing study outcomes is to increase awareness of the unique needs of mothers in recovery to allow for increased availability of federally funded options that meet the specific needs of this distinct population. In addition to expanding treatment options, the researchers will share findings with the subject population to highlight similarities between experiences.
Open Access?
1
Mothers in Recovery: A Phenomenological Study
Mothers seeking recovery from substance use disorders face unique challenges, and treatment options that support women as both patients and as mothers are scarce. Empirical research pertaining to mothers in recovery is reflective of the limited treatment options available for this population. Recognizing that the level of perceived support from providers during early recovery can greatly impact overall outcomes, this study is designed to investigate the individual experiences of mothers as they seek treatment and begin their journey to recovery. Investigators used semi-structured interviews with open-ended questions to capture the emotional and logistical obstacles faced by mothers seeking inpatient treatment that meets their unique needs. Subjects were residing at a residential treatment and recovery home in Southern Maine at the time of interview. Findings of this study will be shared with community partners including the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Office of Maine’s Department of Health and Human Services and the Portland Recovery Community Center. The purpose of sharing study outcomes is to increase awareness of the unique needs of mothers in recovery to allow for increased availability of federally funded options that meet the specific needs of this distinct population. In addition to expanding treatment options, the researchers will share findings with the subject population to highlight similarities between experiences.
