Columbia University has released a new report which shows that women have a higher likelihood of becoming dependent on drugs than men. However, the reasons for their drug abuse are different. Columbia University’s study found that women who abuse substances are more likely to experience guilt and shame, continue reading.
Substance abuse in women
Results revealed the main reasons given by women for substance abuse were emotional, social and psychological. The study found that women abused substances for a variety of reasons, including depression, loneliness, and a feeling of low self-worth. They also lacked support from family members and friends. Women preferred Oxycontin/Vicodin over Marijuana/Heroin or Ecstasy/Cocaine.
In this study, women’s alcoholism also appeared to be common. The impact of alcoholism on women is vastly different. Women are, for instance, more likely than males to develop a drug or alcohol addiction earlier in their life. As a result, women experience more severe mental disorders and symptoms as a consequence of drug abuse.
The Treatment Options for Women
Women’s access to treatment is often limited due to their family obligations, as well social and culture norms. Women wait longer for help, especially when they have children. Women delay getting help for drug or alcohol addiction because they are afraid of losing their children.
The majority of women’s-only addiction treatment centers believe that women from families affected by alcohol and/or drug abuse have a greater risk of addiction. Women’s treatment programs for addiction share the common belief that it is the partner or spouse of a woman who introduced her to drugs and/or alcohol.
The treatment of addiction in women is based on counseling methods that concentrate on the history of the patient, and especially the events which are most likely to be the cause. The sessions may include individual and couple counseling, particularly if alcohol or drug abuse is prevalent.
Find Help Now
It may be necessary to detoxify to regain your control over life. A medical detox removes the toxic chemicals produced by drug and alcohol usage. The process may last several days, even two weeks, depending upon the substance that was used. Rehab programs can help you if alcoholism or drug addiction is still a problem. There are both Twelve Step and Non 12 Step Programs that offer inpatient treatment or day options.
If you’re like many women who can’t take the time to be away from their children, an outpatient treatment program may suit you better. You should consider all your options. Inpatient rehabilitation programs can help you stay sober. It will be beneficial to you and your children.