Drug misuse can happen slowly. Despite your best intentions, you may now realize that it is hindering your ability to care for your child. Knowing the risks substance abuse poses to your family’s health and happiness, you might be considering seeking help. However, the fear of being separated from your child can make this decision difficult.
How rehab might affect child custody
Grappling with substance addiction does not necessarily mean you will lose your child. Acknowledging the problem and seeking treatment is a testament to your love and dedication to your family. Moreover, family courts prefer not to divide families and may show support for parents who strive to improve themselves for the sake of their children.
Of course, your child will still need care while you seek recovery. There is a chance that Child Protective Services (CPS) might step in to remove your child. Still, placing your child in the care of a trusted family member or their other parent may be possible. Speaking to a lawyer can allow you to understand your legal options.
The situation may be more complicated if you are in the middle of a child custody battle. The other party may attempt to use your struggles and paint you as an unfit parent. However, remember that the court bases its decisions on what is in the child’s best interest. Completing rehab could demonstrate your commitment to your child’s needs.
Preparing for rehab as a parent
Completing rehab can benefit you in many ways, from improving your health and outlook in life to giving your family a chance to grow stronger. If you’ve decided to seek treatment, some planning and preparation to help you and your child adjust to upcoming changes more easily.
This might include having an age-appropriate talk with your child about what’s going on, making plans for their temporary living situation and contacting the school about who will be caring for them while you’re away.
Battling drug addiction is undeniably difficult, more so when you have a child depending on you. By taking care of your health, you are also helping your child. If you are still worried about what going to rehab may entail, it may help to speak to an attorney experienced in both drug and child custody cases.
