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. Through comprehensive financial education training we can expand the capacity of recovery centers and other partners in the community that work with individuals in recovery thereby reducing the likelihood of relapse. 

To address this concern, the Calloway County Cooperative Extension Service 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 include budgeting, credit, banking, savings, and more. The eight units of the curriculum were presented between Nov. 4, 2020, and Jan. 28, 2021. There were eight participants that completed all eight lessons, although some sessions had to up 12 attendees.

Participants were asked to complete an evaluation survey following each of the classes. Over the 8-class series, there was an average response rate of 8 per class. Of each class’ survey respondents, 64 percent indicated they increased understanding of how to prepare a personal budget; 80 percent indicated they learned to identify factors that affect the cost of credit; 100 percent better know how to improve a credit score over time; 100 percent are now better able to prioritize debts; and 75 percent had increased confidence in avoiding fees when utilizing a bank account. 

Survey results indicate respondents were receptive to behavior change. Of each class’ respondents, 100 percent plan to consider wants and needs before spending; 100 percent plan to actively work to reduce their debt; 100 percent plan to review their Form W-4 for accuracy; and 100 percent plan to set a SMART goal and start saving toward that goal.

The participants were asked the most significant thing they learned that they plan to apply as a results of these workshops. One participant noted specifically: 1) Check my credit report and make sure all info is correct; 2) Not open too many credit cards and do not overspend; 3) Make my payments on time.

Since starting this class, one participant shared that she has paid off $2,500 in debt and had renegotiated her car. While she said listing all her debt and looking at everything was scary, she said she really enjoyed figuring out how to make financial amends and felt optimistic about her future.