For far too long, addiction research focused exclusively on men, who were the only participants in studies on the subject until recently. For the last few decades, women have been included more and more in addiction research, which helps clinicians who treat addiction understand that there are differences between the sexes and how to focus treatment for men and women effectively. Promises Behavioral Health’s women’s rehab in Houston is available to support women in recovery.
The Right Step Houston, a Promises Behavioral Health company, has been in operation for decades—providing quality, evidence-based treatments for addiction. Women and men often do better in a gender-specific addiction treatment program and choose this approach when beginning their recovery.
What To Know About Addiction in Women vs. Men
The differences in addiction between men and women have to do with both social and biological factors. Gender roles influence how women and men interact with addictive substances. Different hormones (estrogen vs. testosterone) and body compositions also play a role.
Key differences in the areas of susceptibility, recovery, and relapse are the main factors in targeting addiction treatment for women and men in the best ways possible—including:
- Though more men struggle with addiction, women are more likely to move from abuse to dependence and addiction, and more quickly.
- Women are more prone to abusing substances to self-medicate and less likely to do so because of peer pressure or to be accepted by a group. Men tend to be the reverse.
- Women experience more side effects from addiction (like heart disease or liver damage). In contrast, men are better able to be what’s called functional, which often translates into hiding addiction in plain sight.
- Women tolerate alcohol detox with less discomfort than men.
- Women experience relapse at higher rates than men and suffer more intense cravings.
If you are a woman with a substance use disorder (SUD) or care about a woman you are concerned about, how can you tell if casual use has become an addiction?
Signs of Addiction in Women
The physical symptoms of addiction are similar for both men and women. These may include breathing difficulties, flu-like symptoms without actually having the flu, confusion and difficulty focusing, stomach upset, and sleep disturbances. Other common symptoms include agitation, aggression, and mood swings. However, women tend to exhibit specific behavioral symptoms that set them apart.
Fear Projection
Paranoia or anxiety are common signs of addiction. Women who care for children are more likely to project fears triggered by excessive use of substances onto their children or families. To manage the increased stress and anxiety that it causes, they turn even more toward substances.
Heightened Emotions and Mood Swings
Hormonal shifts throughout the month are things that women cope with all the time. When a woman is dealing with an SUD, loved ones may notice changes in the intensity of these shifts and that the woman is less able to manage them comfortably.
Fierce Denial
Too often, women take on the bulk of daily responsibilities while holding down a job. These responsibilities involve keeping the family and home together, ensuring the health and safety of their children, and constantly managing an endless mental checklist of tasks. Many women feel like these tasks are exclusively on their shoulders. When confronted about substance use, a woman’s panicked denial often stems from a deep fear—admitting to struggles with drugs or alcohol could risk losing her children and family.
What To Expect From Women’s Addiction Treatment
Women struggling with substance use disorders often have a history of trauma and other factors that a gender-specific rehab program can address. The Right Step Houston offers:
- Professionals who understand women’s biology, psychology, and health
- Relationship-based, caring atmosphere
- A safe, secure setting to foster trust and enable full participation
- Empowering programs and therapeutic approaches
- The sisterhood of other women who understand and care
Our compassionate team recognizes the many burdens women carry. Seeking help for substance misuse should not increase a woman’s stress but offer a respite from it. If you’re ready to start your recovery, we’re here to help.
Call The Right Step Houston and Enroll in Women’s Rehab Today
Gender-specific rehab provides a safe space for women to discuss personal issues and receive tailored support. These programs focus on unique challenges, such as motherhood and mental health, to enhance long-term recovery. At The Right Step Houston, we understand the specific needs of women and have tailored our women’s rehab program to best help women achieve sobriety.
Are you ready to change direction and begin a life free from substance dependence? Health, balance, and hope await. Contact The Right Step Houston by calling 1.844.768.0169 or using our online form today.