Women in Recovery

Substance abuse and addiction are highly individual challenges. Biology, environmental factors, family history, and the presence of other health issues all play a unique part in the development of substance abuse disorders. While there some influences that are unique to an individual, women in recovery have a unique set of challenges and influences specific to their group. Gender plays a powerful role in the development of addiction and the way it is treated and it is common to find age-specific or gender-specific influences on the development of addiction.

In addition to creating unique treatment plans designed to address individual needs, it is also important to tailor treatment to the needs of a person based on gender experiences. Addiction treatment for men and women may have overlapping areas, but some of the differences in their experiences calls for specialized care.

“Our women’s specific programs create a safe space for women in recovery to grow & relate with one another.”

Women-Specific Needs in Treatment

Because women’s unique experiences play a role in the way substance abuse develops, they need a unique experience in treatment as well. The context of women’s experiences must be considered during treatment in order to effectively address these influences. Relationships with family, support systems, social and economic status, and the influence of culture, societal norms, and gender performance expectations can be potential risk factors for abuse.

Women’s Rehab Unlike Any Other

Our Women’s Rehab Programs, from residential treatment to sober living incorporate our Five Core Competency Model, but look it through a female lens. When women come into treatment, often times their relationships and friendships have suffered. Family-style living environments and women’s groups and activities promote friendships with peers and help our female clients learn to live and enjoy life sober.

Learn More About Our Women’s Rehab Programs

Biological & Social Influences of Addiction

Biological and social differences play a significant role in the development of addiction. Women are more prone to developing addiction than men and are generally affected by substance abuse more dramatically as well. This often causes women to enter rehab feeling the effects of substance abuse just as heavily as men, even if they use drugs less often or in smaller doses. In addition to these biological differences, women’s gender-specific experiences cause them to respond differently to addiction. Due to societal expectations and the negative stereotypes associated with women and substance abuse, many women who struggle with addiction attempt to hide it rather than treat it. If women feel as though they have failed to meet what is expected of them, it can make substance abuse worse, adding additional stress and creating deeper levels of anxiety and depression.

Treatment Plans

Men and women in recovery follow similar treatment plans; however, the topics brought up during therapy and group discussion can vary dramatically. Substance abuse in women often leads to isolation, and with a lack of supportive, close relationships, it can be difficult for women to discuss topics that impact them most. Statistically, women are more prone to experiencing sexual assault, violence, and other experiences that may contribute to feelings of isolation. In therapeutic settings, especially among mixed gender groups, it can be especially difficult to discuss these topics. Coupled with the unique biological experiences of women and the dramatic toll substance abuse takes on their health, both physically and mentally, it is important to create a safe space for women to discuss sensitive issues.

Sharing Experiences

Our Women’s Treatment Programs are designed to create a safe space for women to relate with one another. In this environment, women are able to discuss common issues and similar experiences with others who understand and relate to them. This also creates an environment in which women can build a strong support network amongst themselves. Since many cite a lack of meaningful relationships as a key influence in the development of addiction, building a community of sober women is even more critical. With this support system, women are able to empower one another in recovery and work together towards sobriety.

Relationships & Treatment

Women are particularly affected by relationships when it comes to substance abuse. Loss and lack of meaningful relationships are commonly cited as influences on the development of addiction. Women are also more prone to develop substance abuse problems if they have a partner who uses drugs or alcohol. Substance abuse can become a way to relate with others. Due to this, women’s therapy is designed to help women build healthy relationships with others without the aid of drugs or alcohol. With sobriety as the foundation of relationships, women are able to build positive relationships with others and learn how to continue doing so even after treatment.

Women in Recovery | The Recovery Timeline

For many, recovery begins with an initial detox phase. This helps clients overcome the difficult stage of withdrawal and allows them to have a clear mind, free from the influence of all mind and mood-altering substances. Once detox is complete, clients then move into a treatment program and the unique needs of the client are determined following a comprehensive assessment. Family history, biology, co-occurring disorders, and other influences are all accounted for when developing an individualized treatment plan.

Clients engage in numerous therapeutic options throughout the recovery process and it is not uncommon for treatment to change along with the client’s needs. In treatment, clients regularly attend individual and group therapy to address their individual issues as well as broader topics. For women, gender-specific therapy is a vital part of recovery. Due to the way in which drugs and alcohol affect women’s health, it is critical to create a safe space to discuss issues that may be otherwise difficult to address in mixed groups. Through group therapies, women are able to build a network of sober peers who can relate to the experiences of others. The development of this support network is vital to removing feelings of isolation and improving relationships with others.

As women move through recovery, they develop the emotional intelligence and life skills to support sobriety in life after treatment. Rather than relying on substances to manage negative emotions and deal with stressors, women develop healthy coping mechanisms to minimize the risk of relapse. Treatment that is designed to address the unique needs of women also greatly improves success rates in recovery. By continuing to engage in aftercare services, practicing healthy coping skills, and remaining in contact with the sober community, women are better able to resist relapse and continue managing sobriety.

Sources
https://www.elementsbehavioralhealth.com/addiction-treatment/women-have-special-needs-in-substance-abuse-treatment/