It is no secret that there is a significant number of differences in the average experience of a woman versus that of a man. Addiction is no exception. While both genders are susceptible, there are unique challenges worth considering. For those in need of professional addiction treatment, it is important that they have access to care that is considerate of their needs and circumstances. Banyan’s Massachusetts addiction treatment center is analyzing the concept of women and recovery and how an unaddressed substance use disorder (SUD) can cause even more damage.
Addiction in Women
While both genders can fall prey to substance addictions, there are still key differences to keep in mind. For instance, while men are statistically more likely to use most illicit drugs and end up hospitalized, women are just as likely to develop a SUD. They are also known to be more susceptible to cravings and relapse, which can keep a person trapped in a cycle of addiction for many years.1
Women also tend to abuse substances for different reasons than their male counterparts. These reasons can include:
- Feelings of low self-esteem
- Heightened rates of depression or anxiety
- An attempt to curb their appetite
- A desire to reduce exhaustion
- Abuse from a family member or significant other
There are also a number of risk factors that can lead to the intersection of women and addiction, such as:
- Mental illness
- Divorce
- Domestic violence
- Death of a partner
- Loss of child custody
It is not uncommon for women to avoid seeking out addiction treatment, like that found at our rehab in Massachusetts. This is especially prevalent in women with children, who may fear that admitting to a substance abuse problem could result in the loss of custody of their children. They may also simply be worried about not being able to show up for their children. The harsh reality is that a parent can not be their best selves when addicted to a substance, and one of the best things that person can do is take care of their health.
PTSD and Addiction in Women
Recovery for women is especially crucial in cases of post-traumatic stress disorder. Considering the high rates of violence and sexual abuse perpetuated against women with addiction, this may serve to lengthen the struggles even further. PTSD and addiction often feed off of one another, with some people not even being able to determine which came first. This is why our Wilmington rehab center is proud to offer a variety of effective therapy methods, which are intended to aid patients in coming to terms with these experiences so they can properly heal.
Banyan Commits Itself to Helping Women Recover
Banyan understands the unique challenges faced by women in recovery, which is why we seek to provide ample support to those in these difficult situations. We provide a selection of care levels that ensure each patient receives care that is suited to their individual needs. All it may take is a phone call to begin one of the most important journeys of your life.
For women in need of effective Massachusetts addiction treatment, Banyan offers excellent programs that can help them turn their lives around for the better. Call us at 888-280-4763 to learn more.
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