Expert: Peter L. - 12/15/2010

Question
Hi Peter,

I have a question regarding the treatment of drug addiction for a screenplay I'm working on.

In my story, I have a woman who is a heavy drug user, who finds out she is pregnant. Knowing that fighting the addiction is going to be tough as it is, but also knowing she has no choice, she moves away from the life and people she knows, to a much quieter town.

The doctor who confirms her pregnancy knows about her problems with drugs. Would he be likely to prescribe anything to help her? I've read that certain antidepressants could be prescribed, but would these be long term? If she isn't ready to fight the addiction, but for her baby has to, would her battle with drugs continue through life?

Obviously, there is no hard and fast rule, but I'm just hoping to paint as true a picture of addiction as I can.

Thanks for your time.

Simon

Answer
Hi Simon,

What the doctor would prescribe would depend on a number of factors: What substance she's using, if she's receiving addiction treatment, or just exhibiting medication-seeking behavior.  He or she could prescribe anti-depressants, anti-anxiety agents, opioid replacement medications, or anti-psychotic drugs where warranted.

Some women can stop addictive behaviors while they are pregnant, but will resume after giving birth.  Unfortunately, the use often progresses and there is a risk of a family services agency stepping in to evaluate how fit the mother is.  Many of my female clients have either had children temporarily removed from their custody, or are involved in these agencies in some way.  It can be very disheartening for them.

I believe everyone would like to think that childbirth bestows rehabilitative powers on an expecting or new mom.  But the problem is addiction isn't logical, reasonable, or defensible.  It is always problematic, but does manage to alter an individual's thinking and emotions.  This tendency, called self-medication, drives a lot of addictive behavior.  The alcoholic or addict doesn't understand, however, that the substance is not treating the mental health problem, just masking it (or even making it worse).

Hope this is helpful to you.

Peter