Women’s issues in addiction recovery differ from those of men in many ways. Having an overview of some of the most common struggles for women in addiction recovery can help you know what to expect.
At Fort Behavioral Health, our women’s rehab program takes gender differences seriously. We aim to create a safe space for women to share their experiences without the distractions that often come with mixed company. Learn more from our team today by calling 844.332.1807 or completing our online form.
Undiagnosed Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders
Many women who have substance use disorders also have mental health concerns. These disorders may include:
- ADHD
- Bipolar disorder
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Other mental health disorders
Undiagnosed mental health disorders affect women at a disproportional level than men. Some women may turn to drugs to self-medicate. Therefore, it’s crucial to find a program, such as those available at Fort Behavioral Health, that treats both mental illness and addiction.
Addiction Stigma
Women often face more stigma for drug or alcohol use than men. Those living with partners who abuse alcohol or drugs have a higher rate of relapse. That can prevent women from getting the support required to maintain sobriety. Therefore, some women face tough decisions about their relationships when they return to everyday life.
This is one of the most common women’s issues in addiction recovery. Make sure to speak with your therapist if you have a relationship that could jeopardize your recovery. Additionally, you may find support in group therapy from women who face similar situations.
Romantic Relationships in Early Recovery
No matter how hard you work in our women’s rehab program, you can quickly derail your progress if you become romantically involved too soon. Are you returning to a risky relationship or jumping into a new one early in recovery? These actions can impact your efforts to maintain long-term sobriety.
Worse Health Consequences
Common struggles for women in addiction recovery include a variety of health concerns. Alcohol and stimulants take a tough toll on women. For example, women may develop liver disease more quickly than men. Further, studies have shown that women are more sensitive to the health impacts of cocaine.
Domestic Violence
By far, women face more domestic violence prior to seeking help for substance use disorders. Trusted partners, parents, or others may rape, beat, or mentally and physically abuse women. Drug and alcohol use often becomes a crutch for women who don’t know where to turn to improve their sense of self-worth.
At Fort Behavioral Health, we provide comprehensive care that includes treatment for mental health disorders. We understand that you cannot overcome substance use disorders without also facing the underlying causes.
Pregnancy and Childcare
Women are more likely than men to put off addiction treatment due to childcare. Additionally, using drugs and alcohol can impact an unborn child by causing a miscarriage, low birth weight, premature birth, or other issues.
Women may find it hard to concentrate on their recovery in a women’s rehab program if they are worried about who’s taking care of their children. This is one of the most common struggles for women in addiction recovery. In order to take care of their family, they feel that they have to put their own needs aside. Unfortunately, stress and anxiety can serve as triggers for relapse.
Explore the Women’s Rehab Program at Fort Behavioral Health
If you would like to attend a women’s rehab program designed for women’s issues in addiction recovery, consider Fort Behavioral Health in Texas. We understand that women have unique emotional, physical, and spiritual needs. It’s also more comfortable for some women to attend gender-specific group therapy sessions. Whatever reason you have for seeking a women’s recovery program, call us at 844.332.1807 or fill in our online form for more information.
