Family Support, Stress, Conflict, and Mental Health Among Mothers in Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder.

Background

Family can be a critical, yet complicated, source of support for mothers with substance use disorder(SUD).

Objectives

The purpose of the current study is to explore associations between support, stress, andconflict within the family and mothers' mental health among mothers in treatment for opioid usedisorder (OUD).

Results

The sample comprised 150 Black women who are parents of 3- to 5-year-oldchildren and in methadone treatment. The women were highly supported by family members,particularly their mothers, and most often regarding child care. A little under half the women whoreported receiving support from family members also reported having conflict with them. Familialstress was focused primarily on four main themes: conflict, substance use, estrangement, andcriticism. Family stress and conflict were more strongly associated with women's mental health thanfamilial support.

Conclusion

The results highlight the need to support women in processing their familialrelationships and engaging families in treatment for SUD.