How Does a Single Parent Seek Drug Rehab?

The stress of being a single parent can be overwhelming in itself. Adding on going to addiction treatment may seem unattainable for you. It does not have to be. Choosing to attend drug rehab will be beneficial for the future of both you and your child, even if it seems difficult right now. 

The First Steps

With any big life change, preparation is always key. This way, you reduce your anxiety by knowing what to expect and setting everything up to go as well as possible. Understanding all of your options for treatment can help you feel more confident in your decision. 

A good place to start is to look into outpatient rehabs close by. Outpatient programs are more flexible, as you do not live at the treatment center, and you are only required to complete a certain number of treatment hours per day, at which point you can return home. This form of treatment is best for individuals with jobs, school, or family responsibilities.

At The Edge, we understand the importance of flexibility, and with our outpatient program, you choose the times that fit best into your life rhythm. This can easily be done after work, or during hours your children are in school or at daycare.

What to Expect in an Outpatient Setting

Outpatient rehabs are great for people with other responsibilities or for those whose addiction isn't as severe. In most outpatient programs, you can expect:

• Dual-diagnosis treatment

• Motivational interviewing 

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) 

• Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)

• Family therapy 

• Group therapy 

Outpatient therapy can be just as effective as inpatient therapy in many cases. While it doesn't remove you from your familiar environment in which drug use is normal, it does provide many services and treatment options to help you gain tools for achieving and maintaining sobriety.

Other Options

If your addiction is more severe and requires more intensive treatment, consider an inpatient program close to home that will allow you to see your kids. If you have connections with family members or friends, you can also work something out where they bring your kids to you for visits. Establishing those connections that you can rely on during this hard time is critical for your peace of mind and the well-being of your children.

Another option is a partial hospitalization program (PHP). These programs are similar to outpatient programs but usually require more hours for more severe addictions. This form of treatment is usually used as a stepstone after inpatient treatment before the flexibility of outpatient. 

Having several options for treatment in mind is always a good idea because you have a few things to fall back on. This will also give you more flexibility to choose the program that fits the best for you. 

How to Ensure Financial Stability 

Understanding the cost of going to rehab as a single parent is critical. This can be daunting in the beginning because you may wonder how you can afford rehab and being the only income source in your home. However, there are a few options you can consider. 

• Look into your insurance policy and understand how much of your rehab expenses can be covered by insurance and what the potential copay might be so you can prepare in advance

• Talk to family members or friends who have the resources to help you financially

• Talk with your employer and human resources (HR) department about employee assistance programs (EAPs) and whether you qualify for the Family and Medical Leave Act 

  (FMLA) or the  Americans With Disabilities Act  (ADA), which can help you with time off from work or financial assistance for you to attend rehab

• Research local non-profits near you that are dedicated to helping single parents get into rehab; there may be some financial assistance available for you

• If you have already chosen the rehab facility you would like to attend, talk to a staff member about whether they offer payment plans or ask them to direct you to apply for a loan

What Things Should I Avoid?

There are a few things you should stay away from during your journey of finding the right rehab center for you. One of them is to avoid letting the fear of cost cloud your judgment when choosing a drug rehab center.

It can be harmful to simply choose the cheapest facility out there because it may not be the best for you. “Budget” rehab programs can be overcrowded and understaffed or may have lower quality services.

In the end, if a cheaper facility does not equip you with the proper tools, you may end up chronically relapsing and needing more treatment. Don't give up on your search. This may seem daunting and unattainable as a single parent. Always keep in mind the benefits of going to rehab for your future and your family's future. 

In the end, choosing to receive addiction treatment is one of the best investments you can make for yourself. Choosing to lead a healthier and happier will always pay off down the road. 

If You’re a Parent Seeking Rehab for You, The Edge Treatment Center Is Your Recovery Resource

We understand how difficult the process of starting rehab can be, especially when you are a single parent with children depending on you. Remember that taking the time and money necessary to attend rehab is an investment.

The staff at The Edge Treatment Center is available to you as a resource and guide. We prioritize community through group activities, group therapy, and bonding experiences. Through this community, you will form long-lasting relationships with others who understand you and what you are going through. We offer personalized programs, including time-flexible outpatient programs.

If you are ready to improve your health for your and your children's sake, contact us today.