Study Status
Completed
Project Team
Alignment with Crown Institute Vision
The Alma Program with Substance Use Goals Around Recovery (SUGAR) study was created to address persistent gaps in support for individuals in substance use recovery, including limited access to culturally responsive care, stigma, and barriers to engagement. The Alma Program with SUGAR study aims to promote wellness and recovery by providing peer-led support, practical skills, and community connection, recognizing that when mothers are supported, their families and communities thrive as well.
Background & Context
For the past seven years, our team has been implementing and evaluating Alma to reduce depression among new and expectant mothers. Feedback from community partners highlights a strong need to support women who use substances during pregnancy and while raising young children. Substance use during this period poses significant risks for both mothers and children, including increased risk of challenges with maternal-child bonding, parenting, and long-term relational development. Alma is a promising approach to support mothers with substance use concerns. By engaging peer mentors and a behavioral activation framework, the program may help women initiate treatment, reduce substance use, and maintain sobriety, while promoting motivation, engagement, and overall well-being.
Primary Aims
This study explored the adaptation of Alma, a culturally responsive peer mentoring program for new and expectant mothers, for those with a history of substance use. In-depth interviews assessed the program’s preliminary acceptability and perceived effectiveness to guide potential adaptations.
Research Methods
This study used a qualitative approach to explore the potential adaptation of Alma, a culturally responsive peer mentoring program for new and expectant mothers, for those with a history of substance use. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants to gather insights on their experiences, needs, and perceptions of the program. The focus was on understanding the acceptability and perceived effectiveness of Alma’s peer mentoring and behavioral activation strategies in supporting substance use goals alongside professional care. Interview data were analyzed thematically to identify key themes, inform program adaptations, and guide future implementation for this population.
Key Findings & Publications / Presentations
Results from this study are forthcoming.
Contact to Learn More
References
Albarran, C., Heilemann, M., & Koniak-Griffin, D. (2014). Promotoras as facilitators of change: Latinas’ perspectives after participating in a lifestyle behaviour intervention program. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 70(10), 2303–2313. https://doi.org/10.1111/jan.12383
Audrain-McGovern, J., Rodriguez, D., Rodgers, K. and Cuevas, J. (2011), Declining alternative reinforcers link depression to young adult smoking. Addiction, 106: 178-187. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1360-0443.2010.03113.x.
Barnard, M. and McKeganey, N. (2004), The impact of parental problem drug use on children: what is the problem and what can be done to help?. Addiction, 99: 552-559. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1360-0443.2003.00664.x
Parolin, M., & Simonelli, A. (2016). Attachment theory and maternal drug addiction: The contribution to parenting interventions. Frontiers in psychiatry, 7, 152.
Parra-Medina, D., & Messias, D. K. H. (2011). Promotion of Physical Activity Among Mexican-Origin Women in Texas and South Carolina: An Examination of Social, Cultural, Economic, and Environmental Factors. Quest, 63(1), 100–117. https://doi.org/10.1080/00336297.2011.10483668.