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. 2025 Jun 21.
doi: 10.1007/s10597-025-01482-9. Online ahead of print.

Recovering Together: The Socioecological Impact of Social Networks on Postpartum Substance Use Disorder Recovery

Leah A Holcomb  1   2 , Caitlin Koob  3 , Bonnie Treado  4 , Rachel Mayo  5 , Kathleen B Cartmell  5 , Jennifer Barkin  6 , Lori Dickes  7 , Kacey Eichelberger  8
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Recovering Together: The Socioecological Impact of Social Networks on Postpartum Substance Use Disorder Recovery

Leah A Holcomb et al. Community Ment Health J. .

Abstract

This study explored the experiences of postpartum individuals in early substance use disorder (SUD) recovery and key aspects of their social networks using the Socioecological Model (SEM). We conducted a qualitative study of 22 postpartum individuals (< 1 year since delivery) in residential SUD treatment from July to November 2023. Transcribed, audio-recorded interviews were analyzed using Atlas.ti, with findings organized by SEM levels. Participants, primarily White (81.8%), single (86.3%), and living below the poverty line (81.8%), reported opioid (40.1%) and stimulant (81.8%) use disorders. Challenges spanned SEM levels, including navigating parenthood, accessing trauma-informed care, and overcoming structural barriers such as housing instability, transportation, and childcare access. Findings underscore the need for family-centered, trauma-informed recovery programs and flexible policies addressing childcare and social service barriers to support long-term recovery and maternal well-being.

Keywords: Maternal functioning; Mental health; Postpartum; Substance use disorder.

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Conflict of interest statement

Declarations. Competing interests: Authors declare no competing interests.

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