Financial stress can put individuals in recovery from substance use disorder at risk for relapse, particularly during early stages of recovery. This increased risk is due, in part, to financial stress that people in recovery from substance use disorder often encounter. 

To address this concern, the Caldwell County Family & Consumer Sciences Agent utilized the Recovering Your Finances curriculum to help build financial capability for those in recovery and thereby improve the efficacy of substance use recovery programs. Topics presented included budgeting, money habitudes, credit, banking, savings, and more. 

Participants were asked to complete an evaluation survey following the classes. Over the series, there was an average response rate of seven per class. Of class survey respondents, 100% indicated they understand how to prepare a personal budget; can identify factors that affect the cost of credit; are able to prioritize debt; can identify the benefits of using a bank or credit union; understand income and payroll taxes; can identify components on a pay statement; and can explain why savings is important.   75% know how to improve a credit score over time; and 78% understand how to avoiding fees when utilizing a bank account. 75% plan to consider wants and needs before spending and create a written budget; 89% plan to actively work to reduce their debt; 88% plan to read contracts and form before signing; 88% plan to work on improving their credit score; and 86% plan to start or continue to contribute to a savings fund.