Recovering from addiction is a challenging journey, but when you're a parent, it can feel even more overwhelming. You want to be the best parent you can be, but you also need to focus on your recovery to stay healthy for yourself and your family. Balancing these responsibilities isn't easy, but with some practical steps, you can manage both successfully.
Prioritize Your Recovery
The first thing to remember is that your recovery comes first. It may feel selfish, but it's actually the opposite. When you're in recovery, you're working to become a healthier and more present parent. Think of it like putting on your oxygen mask first in an airplane — taking care of yourself allows you to take better care of your children.
Here are some tips to help you prioritize your recovery:
Stick to Your Recovery Plan | Whether you're attending therapy, going to support group meetings, or following a treatment program, make sure you stick to your recovery plan. Schedule these activities just like you would your children's school events or doctor’s appointments. Let your family know that these times are important and that you need their support to attend.
Build a Support System | Recovery is much easier when you have a strong support system. This can include family members, friends, or other parents in recovery. Don’t be afraid to ask for help with childcare or household tasks when you need it. Remember, asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Communicate with Your Children | Depending on their age, explain to your children what you're going through in a way they can understand. Let them know that you're working on getting better so you can be the best parent for them. Reassure them that you love them and that they are not the cause of your addiction or recovery.
Managing Parenting Responsibilities
While you're focusing on your recovery, it's also important to keep up with your parenting duties. Here are some strategies to help you balance both:
Create a Routine | Children thrive on routines, and having a daily schedule can help you stay organized and manage your time better. Plan out your day, including time for meals, homework, playtime, and your recovery activities. Having a routine can make your children feel more secure and help you stay on track with your recovery.
Practice Self-Care | Parenting is demanding, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Make sure to take time for self-care, whether it’s a few minutes of quiet time, a walk, or a hobby you enjoy. When you take care of yourself, you have more energy and patience to care for your children.
Involve Your Kids | Depending on their age, you can involve your children in your recovery in positive ways. This could mean practicing mindfulness exercises together, cooking healthy meals, or talking about feelings. These activities can strengthen your bond and show your children that taking care of oneself is important.
Set Boundaries | It’s okay to set boundaries with your children when you need time for your recovery. Let them know when you need a few minutes alone or when it’s time for you to attend a meeting. Setting these boundaries helps them understand that your recovery is a priority for the whole family.
Balancing recovery with parenting responsibilities can be challenging, but it’s possible with the right approach. Remember, taking care of yourself is one of the best things you can do for your children. When you’re strong in your recovery, you’re better able to be the loving, attentive parent they need.
Elevate has a number of resources available for those seeking recovery and support. Visit https://elevateyou.org/support for more information, or call 262-677-2216.
