Tom Conrad: Addiction Recovery Podcaster
Tom Conrad: Addiction Recovery Podcaster
566: Pregnant and Addicted: Why There’s No Help for Women
566: Pregnant and Addicted: Why There’s No Help for Women
566: Pregnant and Addicted: Why There’s No Help for Women
Friday 22nd August 2025
Explore the challenges pregnant women face in addiction recovery and the support gaps that exist in this insightful episode.
77 minutes
challenging
informative
hopeful
About this podcast
Author:
Tom Conrad: Addiction Recovery Podcaster
Overview:
Categories:
Recovery Reimagined
Creative Recovery Journeys
Innovative Treatments & Recovery Paths
Family Recovery from Addiction
Recovery from Trauma
Links:
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Episodes:
510 (View all)
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Get the buttons here!Pregnancy & Addiction: Unseen Struggles
Episode Overview
- Pregnant women face unique challenges in addiction recovery.
- Stigma and lack of resources are significant barriers.
- Experiential therapy shows promise in aiding recovery.
- Family support is crucial for successful recovery.
- Legislation impacts treatment options for pregnant women.
"I've never met a woman that decides, 'I want to start drinking or using substances now that I'm pregnant.'"
In this thought-provoking episode of Real Recovery Talk, hosts Tom Conrad and Benjamin B. are joined by Heather, a dedicated researcher and advocate, to delve into the nuanced challenges faced by women struggling with addiction, particularly during pregnancy. The episode sheds light on the glaring gaps in resources and support systems available to pregnant women battling addiction. Heather highlights the pervasive stigma that these women encounter, which often exacerbates their struggle to seek help and achieve recovery.
The discussion takes a deep dive into the emotional and psychological toll that addiction can take on pregnant women and underscores the importance of a supportive environment. Heather shares her insights on how treatment centers and families can better respond to the needs of these women, emphasizing the role of empathy and understanding in fostering hope and self-determination. A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to exploring innovative approaches to recovery, such as experiential therapy.
Heather and the hosts discuss how activities like surfing, facilitated by organizations like Stoked On Life, can play a crucial role in reducing stress and anxiety, thereby aiding the recovery process. The conversation also touches on recent legislative changes in Florida that mandate treatment centers to accept clients on medications like Suboxone and Methadone, highlighting the evolving landscape of addiction treatment.
Heather's extensive research and personal experiences provide a compelling narrative that challenges listeners to reconsider preconceived notions about addiction and recovery. The episode concludes with a call to action for greater advocacy and support for pregnant women struggling with addiction, urging listeners to turn their challenges into messages of hope and transformation.