Ann Sutton, a professional photographer, contributes her services once a month so that mothers can mark their babies' development through pictures. Members of the Junior League and church volunteers help IIP staff during the club meetings. But most of all, there is the support of a circle of friends-friends who know what it's like to struggle to break addictive behavior. Recovering substance abusers typically have not experienced relationships based on anything except obtaining and using drugs, Todd said. They are, in a sense, beginning the process of maturing themselves while trying to nurture an infant.
Addiction is a chronic condition, and relapse is always possible.
Our goal is to help each of these mothers who have committed to a clean and sober lifestyle stay that way. We also want them to see that what their baby is experiencing is part of the growth process.