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Pregnant and parenting women often face significant barriers to accessing and staying in substance use disorder (SUD) treatment programs. Despite the increased motivation that pregnancy may offer, such women are frequently underrepresented in these programs, this includes the field of drug rehab in Florida, including some of the best drug rehabs in Florida not accepting these patients. A variety of factors, including trauma histories, internalized stigma, and a fear of child welfare involvement, combine to make retention a persistent challenge. To improve outcomes for this population, it is crucial to adopt innovative approaches that address their unique needs. One such approach, known as codesign, has shown promise in creating a more patient-centered, supportive treatment experience for pregnant and parenting women with substance use disorders. Call 850-403-6566 if you or a loved one is searching for the best drug and alcohol treatment centers in Florida.

Understanding the Barriers

Before exploring solutions, it is important to grasp the nature of the barriers that contribute to the low retention rates in SUD treatment among pregnant women. One significant factor is the high prevalence of trauma in this population. Over one-third of women with SUD have experienced intimate partner violence, which may include physical or sexual abuse. Such traumatic experiences, when left unaddressed, can exacerbate substance use and deter women from seeking treatment. Moreover, feelings of shame and internalized stigma surrounding substance use, during pregnancy and otherwise, can always compound these challenges, making it difficult for women to engage in treatment.
In addition to trauma and stigma, many pregnant women are hesitant to seek treatment due to a fear of child welfare involvement. These women may worry that entering treatment will result in losing custody of their children, even if they are motivated to seek help. This fear, combined with the often rigid and punitive systems in place, can lead women to avoid treatment altogether, leaving them vulnerable to continued substance use and its associated risks for both themselves and their children. It is important to note before delving deeper on the topic, that Florida Springs, the best drug and alcohol rehab in Panama City, and one of the best rehabs in Florida, accepts pregnant women as patients and has years of expertise in this field.

The Promise of Codesign

In response to these barriers, experts have recommended adopting more innovative, patient-centered approaches to SUD treatment for pregnant and parenting women. One such approach is codesign, a process in which healthcare providers and service users work together to identify issues and collaboratively design solutions. The goal of codesign is to create a treatment model that more accurately reflects the needs and preferences of the individuals it serves, leading to greater engagement and retention.
When codesign is executed effectively, it integrates principles of trauma-informed care (TIC), which is essential for addressing the needs of women with histories of trauma. TIC emphasizes empowerment, voice, and choice, ensuring that patients feel safe, respected, and involved in their own treatment. These principles help to counteract the traditional power dynamics that can often disempower patients in clinical settings, particularly those with a history of trauma. By fostering collaboration and mutual respect, codesign can create an environment where women feel comfortable sharing their experiences and contributing to their care plan.
A successful example of codesign in action is seen in programs that have integrated peer recovery coaches into the treatment process. These coaches, who often have lived experience with SUD, can act as facilitators in the codesign process, building trust and rapport with participants. Their presence can help to reduce the power imbalance between service providers and patients, as they offer a unique perspective that bridges the gap between clinical expertise and lived experience. Women who have participated in codesign initiatives with peer recovery coaches report feeling more comfortable and empowered in treatment, which in turn leads to better engagement and retention.

The Impact of Trauma-Informed Care

Integrating trauma-informed care principles into the design and delivery of SUD treatment is crucial for improving retention among pregnant and parenting women. Many women with substance use disorders have experienced trauma, which can severely impact their ability to engage in traditional treatment models. Trauma-informed care seeks to create a safe, supportive environment where individuals feel empowered to take an active role in their recovery.
Key principles of trauma-informed care include safety, trustworthiness, peer support, collaboration, and empowerment. By embedding these principles into SUD treatment, providers can create a more inclusive and supportive atmosphere. For example, small workgroups that prioritize equal representation between providers and patients have been shown to foster a sense of trust and collaboration. Women who feel that their voices are heard and respected are more likely to stay engaged in treatment.
Moreover, trauma-informed care emphasizes the importance of addressing the underlying trauma that often fuels substance use. Programs that incorporate trauma-specific interventions, such as counseling or support groups, can help women process their experiences and develop healthier coping mechanisms. When women feel that their trauma is being acknowledged and addressed, they are more likely to remain in treatment and work toward recovery. Acknowledging trauma and underlying pain, and dealing with it while at inpatient drug and alcohol rehab, is a core principle at Florida Springs Wellness and Recovery Center, one of the best drug and alcohol rehabs in Florida.

Facilitating Meaningful Participation

A critical factor in the success of codesign is ensuring that participants feel safe and respected throughout the process. This is particularly important for pregnant and parenting women with SUD, who may already feel marginalized or stigmatized. Skilled facilitation is key to creating an environment where women feel comfortable sharing their experiences and collaborating on solutions.
Research has shown that facilitation styles that prioritize participant input and create an equal power dynamic between providers and patients are most effective. In some programs, facilitators actively seek out the opinions of patients before turning to providers, ensuring that everyone has an opportunity to contribute. This approach not only empowers women to take an active role in their care but also helps to break down the traditional hierarchies that can inhibit meaningful collaboration.
Another important element of successful facilitation is the use of peer recovery coaches. These individuals, who often have personal experience with SUD, can help to build trust with participants and create a more comfortable, inclusive atmosphere. Women who have pre-existing relationships with their peer recovery coach or other participants are more likely to feel comfortable engaging in the codesign process, leading to better outcomes for both the individual and the program as a whole.

Addressing Systemic Barriers

While codesign and trauma-informed care offer promising solutions for improving retention in SUD treatment among pregnant and parenting women, it is important to acknowledge the systemic barriers that may hinder their implementation. In some cases, resistance from healthcare providers or organizational leaders can pose a challenge, particularly when it comes to shifting away from traditional models of care.
For example, some professionals may struggle to let go of their decision-making authority and fully embrace the collaborative nature of codesign. Overcoming these barriers requires a cultural shift within organizations, where providers learn to value the input of patients as equal partners in the treatment process. Additionally, addressing logistical challenges, such as uncertain timelines or lack of physical space, is crucial for ensuring the success of codesign initiatives.

Conclusion

Improving retention in substance use disorder treatment programs for pregnant and parenting women requires a comprehensive, patient-centered approach. By integrating trauma-informed care principles and adopting codesign as a central component of treatment planning, providers can create an environment where women feel safe, respected, and empowered to take an active role in their recovery. Though challenges remain, the potential for positive outcomes—both for individual patients and for the broader healthcare system—makes these innovative approaches well worth pursuing.

References

‘It opened my eyes, my ears, and my heart’: Codesigning a substance use disorder treatment programme.”
Published in: Health expectations: an international journal of public participation in health care and health policy, 2024 Feb