Addiction Treatment for Women

Dealing with addiction and treatment depends on the individual. It is more likely for men to drink and use drugs than it is for women, who are more likely to develop substance abuse problems but less likely to seek treatment. Some barriers exist to treatment that are helpful to recognize, particularly if a loved one is struggling with addiction.

 

Different Hurdles

Men and women struggle with different hurdles during treatment for addiction. Women are typically more nurturing and focused on caring for others more than self-care. Several options exist for women to choose from when searching for treatment options:

Outpatient

Women who are unable to take time away from families or work often benefit from outpatient addiction treatment. Some facilities may offer childcare so mothers can attend addiction treatment. While outpatient addiction treatment is often more affordable and convenient, it may not be enough for women who struggle with severe addictions.

Inpatient

Inpatient treatment involves both women and men together going through addiction treatment lasting anywhere from a month to one year. The facilities are not always equipped to deal with women’s issues specifically including child accommodations.

Women Only

Addiction treatment facilities that focus only on women are often a great choice for those struggling with addiction. Facilities like these can be sympathetic to women’s issues before and after treatment and women are able to focus in an environment with other women.

 

Drug Addiction Treatment for Women

Treatment protocols for women include some of the same processes including the following:

Screening and assessment

Screening is done including a routine physical while an addiction specialist makes a diagnosis during the assessment and asks questions.

Detox

If the woman is diagnosed with a substance use disorder, the next step involves detox where the body gets rid of drugs or alcohol. This can be done at home or in a medical facility.

Treatment

Psychological and behavioral treatments are done along with pharmacological interventions as prescribed on a case-by-case basis. Inpatient treatment may last up to a year or more. Therapy may be included (individual, group, family) every day or weekly.

Aftercare

The last step is forming an aftercare plan. This may range from a halfway house to outpatient counseling. Aftercare may last several years after initial treatment.

 

Barriers to Treatment for Women

Some of the barriers to treatment can keep a woman from seeking support. Aside from finances and work, women who need substance abuse treatment may encounter issues with:

• Unsupportive partners
• Untreated mental illness
• Feelings of shame and embarrassment
• Family obligations

Women who are ready to overcome addiction have many options available, it is a matter of finding the right one for the individual. Treatment is not a one-size-fits-all approach, it is individualized for each woman and is focused on getting her back to her family, work and sobriety.

Hired Power believes women have different needs than men when it comes to addiction treatment. If you are struggling with addiction as a female and want to find out how to recover, call us. We can guide you to the best resources for treatment and getting well. Contact us today by calling 800.910.9299.