At HEED, we understand that a child’s development begins long before birth, with the health, well-being, and lived experiences of mothers.
In this guide, when we refer to mothers in recovery, we are specifically referring to women who are in recovery from substance use, including substance use disorder (SUD). This is distinct from postpartum recovery following childbirth, and we aim to maintain that clarity throughout this section.
For mothers in recovery from substance use, the journey toward wellness is not only about healing, but it is also about reclaiming stability, building resilience, and creating the conditions for a healthy future for themselves and their children. Preconception health and wellness are especially critical during this time, as they shape both maternal outcomes and early child development.
Through our work across the SouthCoast and Rhode Island, we see every day that mothers in recovery are navigating complex systems while striving to care for themselves and their families. These mothers are not defined by their challenges; they are defined by their strength, their commitment to change, and their deep desire to provide a better path forward.
This section of the Birth to Five Resource Guide is designed to connect mothers to trusted resources, services, and community-based supports that promote health, stability, and healing before, during, and after pregnancy.
Grounded in the science of early development and The Basics, we recognize that strong starts begin with strong, supported caregivers. By investing in mothers’ well-being, we are investing in the healthy development of children, families, and communities.
Because every child deserves a strong start.
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We welcome your feedback. If you have suggestions, resources, or updates to share, please email us at Bto5Guide@heedcoalition.org. Your input helps us keep this guide relevant, responsive, and community-informed.
Important Notice
The Birth to Five Resource Guide is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. By using this site, you acknowledge that you are accessing these materials voluntarily and at your own discretion.
The information shared here is not intended to replace professional medical, clinical, legal, or therapeutic advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician, pediatrician, or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding health, development, or medical conditions.
The HEED Coalition and The Basics Southcoast/RI make no representations or warranties regarding the completeness, accuracy, or applicability of the information provided and assume no liability for any decisions made or actions taken based on the use of this site.
Use of this site constitutes your acceptance of these terms.
