Facing substance use disorder and pregnancy at the same time can feel isolating. Many people are afraid of their friends, family, and health care providers judging them, which can make asking for help very difficult. But you don’t have to face drug addiction and pregnancy by yourself. Even small steps, like reaching out to a trusted friend, can help make a big difference. As you begin recovery, you can find support along the way.
About 5% of pregnant people use at least one addictive substance. Fortunately, it’s possible to get the help you need. With the right support, you can make progress toward recovery while protecting the well-being of yourself and your future child.
At Groups, we provide a safe and welcoming environment where you can be surrounded by people who understand what you’re going through. Our caring and compassionate staff also offers 1:1 support and attention. No matter how you feel, we can listen to your needs, empathize with your emotions, and give you the support you need.
In this article, we explore seven safe steps you can take to help you on your path to recovery.
7 safe steps toward recovery
Drug addiction and pregnancy can feel like a big challenge. Fortunately, taking one step at a time may help you recover.
Here are seven safe steps you can take to move forward with confidence:
1. Reach out for support.
Asking for help can be hard, but it’s an important step to take. When you reach out for support, you’re looking out for the well-being of yourself and your pregnancy. There are many people who can understand what you’re going through and can help without judgment. You can reach out to your friends, family, and recovery programs for pregnant people.
At Groups, we’ve supported many pregnant members, guiding them with their recovery and pregnancy. We offer a safe environment where you can find the help you need.
2. Explore treatment options for pregnant people.
Your treatment can be safe and tailored to your needs. Medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Under the care of a qualified provider, this type of treatment can help improve outcomes for you and your baby. However, you can also explore nonmedicinal options such as counseling.
Common treatment options include:
- Suboxone — This medication can help decrease opioid cravings. Suboxone can be used safely during pregnancy, when under close medical supervision.
- Methadone — It can provide a healthier environment for the fetus as it develops. Methadone can be also used safely under close medical supervision.
- Counseling and behavioral therapy —These treatments can address the behavioral, emotional, and mental health challenges that can come with drug addiction and pregnancy. They can also be a great way to learn coping skills to help you manage stress and triggers.
- Support groups for pregnant people — This treatment often provides a safe space where people can share their feelings and support each other. You can also ask questions in a welcoming environment and get the help you need without judgment.
If you’re unsure where to begin, our team at Groups can help you. We can support you during your pregnancy with safe, effective, and personalized treatment.
3. Share your fears.
Pregnancy and recovery can cause you to feel many different emotions. When you open up about what you’re going through, you can get the help you need to feel better. You can talk to a friend, family member, counselor, or someone in your support group. Sometimes, sharing your feelings can be scary, but taking this step can guide you in the right direction.
You may also find that you feel less alone, which can provide a sense of relief. While you might feel stronger holding in your emotions, acknowledging them is a sign of strength, not weakness. Admitting your fears can help you get past them and begin positive change.
4. Make gradual changes.
Recovery is a journey that can take time. Trying to change everything at once can feel overwhelming, but you can overcome your fears. When you focus on small, manageable steps, it can be much easier to get started on your recovery.
Some examples of gradual changes include:
- Attending one counseling session
- Taking your medications
- Following a daily routine
Small changes can build momentum over time. They can help you create healthier habits that last while supporting your recovery and pregnancy.
5. Find support.
Having a strong support system can make a meaningful difference on your path to recovery. Surrounding yourself with people who understand what you’re going through can help you feel better. As you connect with other pregnant members who are in recovery, you’re likely to feel less alone. Many people find peer groups helpful because they know they are in a safe, empathetic space.
Your support system can listen when you need to talk and provide encouragement when you’re feeling down. As you find people to support you, you discover who you can reach out to when you need help. Whether you feel the most comfortable talking to a friend, family member, or peer, you don’t have to face recovery alone.
6. Focus on long-term health for you and your baby.
Recovery is more than overcoming drug addiction. It’s an opportunity to create healthier habits. In the process, you can improve the health and well-being of you and your future child.
Here are some steps you can take that can help your long-term health:
- Attend regular prenatal appointments.
- Eat a balanced diet.
- Stay hydrated.
- Get plenty of sleep and rest.
- Do gentle exercises.
- Manage stress and negative thoughts.
Enhancing your physical and mental health can help you work toward creating the best environment you can bring a child into. Each step you take makes a difference. To help achieve the best outcome for yourself and your family, be sure to follow your provider’s guidance.
7. Celebrate your milestones.
Whether you have a big or small win, you should take the time to celebrate. Recognizing each step you make can help boost your confidence and build momentum. Each milestone is also a reminder that making progress is possible.
Examples of recovery milestones include:
- Attending your first counseling session
- Taking your medications consistently
- Going one week without using drugs
As you keep making positive changes, each step becomes a building block toward a healthier life for you and your baby. You deserve to be proud of your accomplishments and celebrate your progress along the way.
Find support for recovery during pregnancy at Groups
Recovery during pregnancy can feel overwhelming, but you can push past your fears. Taking one step at a time can help you make lasting progress. Remember that each milestone adds up over time, leading you to a brighter future for yourself and your baby. You also don’t have to go on this journey alone. The right guidance and support can help you along the way.
At Groups, we can help you achieve your goals during pregnancy and beyond. Our caring and compassionate staff can support you during your recovery, helping to improve the health of you and your baby. You can also find and connect with other members who are going through the same journey as you. No matter how scared you may feel, we will be there for you and welcome you to a safe, supportive, and empathetic environment.
Our pregnancy care pathway involves:
- Learning about MOUD during pregnancy, including risks and alternatives
- Keep your care plan up-to-date with your needs
- Opportunities to join a group with other pregnant members for specialized programming
- Medication monitoring throughout pregnancy
- Post-partum depression screening
Give our Recovery Support Specialists a call today at 888-858-1723 for more information or to begin your recovery. We provide treatment across the country — and we’re always expanding. See if we offer care in your state, either online or at one of our 130+ local offices. If Groups doesn’t offer treatment in your area, you can locate other treatment options here.
