Both men and women have an equal degree of risk for developing substance abuse or addiction. However, there may be very different reasons behind the development of these problems between the genders.
If you are a woman who is struggling with substance abuse, The Willows at Red Oak Recovery® offers women’s addiction treatment programs to help people heal from substance use disorder. Call us today at 855.773.0614 to learn more about addiction treatment for women.
Facts About Women and Addiction
While women are just as likely to develop drug abuse issues, they often do so for very different reasons. The connection between women and substance abuse can often be traced back to past trauma or current stressors such as:
- Interpersonal conflicts
- Body image issues
- Sexual abuse
These experiences can lead to self-medication through substance use and, ultimately, addiction.
Women are also more likely to struggle with co-occurring disorders, such as depression.
Additionally, women have unique needs when it comes to treating these dangerous problems. Consider the following interesting facts about women and addiction.
Women May Become Addicted Faster than Men
Due to unique differences in a woman’s body and brain, a woman may become addicted to various substances at a faster rate. For example, women tend to metabolize drugs and alcohol more slowly, allowing these materials to build up in their system. Additionally, women usually have more body fat, which affects how they store and excrete addictive substances.
Women Face Unique Obstacles to Seeking Help
Women often face a strong stigma regarding reaching out for addiction treatment. Fear, low self-esteem, and shame can stop them from getting the help they need. Women are also more likely to be overwhelmed with taking care of their homes and children. They may also have lower-paying jobs and other factors that affect their ability to seek help.
Women Go Through the Treatment Process Differently
Women often recover from addiction at a faster rate than men. This increased rate is partly due to the wiring of the brain. Recovery from addiction requires introspection, self-discovery, and relationship-building. Since women place importance on relationships and prioritize building them, they may have an easier time recovering from drug abuse.
Women May Need Additional Treatment for Related Issues
In general, women are more likely to experience trauma, abuse, and other factors that influence recovery. Part of the treatment process may involve addressing these issues and any co-occurring disorders that exist.
Recognizing a Problem is the First Step
Recognizing the signs of substance abuse and addiction is an essential step to healing. In the case of women and addiction, it may not always be easy to notice the problem. Women may hide these behaviors to remain stable for their family members. They also may merely pass these issues off as being a result of day-to-day stress. The critical thing to realize is that help is available.
The Importance of Professional Rehabilitation
For most women dealing with the complexities of drug abuse and addiction, professional substance abuse treatment is necessary for a proper recovery. The Willows is a rehab center designed to meet the unique needs of women when it comes to drug addiction treatment. Offering a female-only setting, women can get the help they need in a caring and compassionate environment.
The Willows at Red Oak Recovery®
If you are a woman struggling with addiction, you are not alone. The Willows at Red Oak Recovery® offers a safe and compassionate environment to heal from substance use disorder. Our team is ready to provide personalized care for women on their journey toward lasting sobriety.
You don’t have to let addiction stop you from living a successful life. We can help you recover from these problems. Contact The Willows at Red Oak Recovery® by calling us at 855.773.0614 or by using our online form to discover how we can help you get started.
