Women,Opioid Use Disorder,and the Role of Recovery Housing: Exploring Challenges for Justice-Involved Women in Rural Sober Living Homes

Abstract

The opioid crisis continues to impact millions across the United States, with women facing unique challenges in both the development of opioid use disorder (OUD) and the pursuit of recovery. This study explores justice-involved women’s experiences in sober living homes (SLHs), examining the organizational, societal, individual, and behavioral health factors influencing their recovery journeys. Through in-depth interviews and focus groups, the study found that many women were first introduced to opioids through legitimate medical prescriptions and faced significant barriers to accessing and sustaining treatment. Challenges such as limited treatment availability, stigma, particularly for pregnant and parenting women, unstable housing, and unaddressed trauma were common themes. Despite these obstacles, participants emphasized the critical role of sober living homes in providing structure, support, and opportunities for rebuilding their lives. The findings underscore the need for expanded access to women-centered recovery housing for justice-involved women and the integration of trauma-informed care into treatment programs.

Plain Language Summary Title

Analysis of factors that influence substance use recovery for women who are currently in sober living homes in rural areas, who have been involved in the criminal justice system

This study looks at factors that influence substance use recovery for women who are currently in sober living homes in rural areas who have been involved in the criminal justice system. There are very few sober living homes in rural areas, even though these areas desperately need them to help those with substance use disorders. We expect things like family, community, and resources to influence their recovery process. We also expect women to say that the process is difficult and that sober living homes can help people get sober. This matters because of the large number of women who have substance use disorders and the limited resources that exist to help them get sober, particularly in rural areas. Many recovery facilities have limited beds and require women to be sober to get a bed, which is often not realistic. We interviewed women living in sober living homes who have been involved in the criminal justice system and asked them questions about their recovery process. As we expected, the women said that things like family, community, and beds available in sober living homes were all important in helping them get sober. They also said that the process was very difficult and that more sober living homes should be available to people who need them. Several had traveled to get to the homes since their hometown did not have resources. The findings of the study emphasize the importance of having more sober living homes in rural areas to serve those in need.