Gender-specific addiction treatment means alcohol and drug programs designed to treat women and men separately specifically. According to various studies, there are fundamental cultural and biological differences between both the genders in terms of substance abuse. Moreover, gender differences also exist in the choice of substance, dependency rates, and how the brain responds to substance usage. Research also reveals that men and women have different reasons for substance abuse and other circumstances that result in relapse. Gender-specific treatment programs are considered sensitive to the various issues and address the unique requirements of each gender in a supportive and comfortable environment.
The way men and women experience addiction differs significantly. Data reveals that gender is a vital factor to grab attention while examining the pattern of substance abuse, substances of choice, and overall prevalence rates. An example that might reveal this fact in detail is that men are more into alcohol and marijuana use. In contrast, women have higher rates of non-medical use of different prescription drugs.
The way addiction affects both genders differently
Both men and women differ in the way they started using drugs and their pattern of usage. In men’s case, they tend to start using a substance because of the benefits associated with it, like increased sociability, better concentration, and improved sex performance. While in the case of women, substance abuse is related to traumatic experiences and abuse of relation. They usually turn to drugs or alcohol to find an escape from their painful experiences. Studies reveal that most of the women who are into drugs and alcohol have a history of family substance abuse and have started using the medication as their partner or spouse was into it.
A significant difference between the genders also relies on the fact that women begin using different drugs at lower doses than men. Moreover, their use of the drug also escalates quickly into addiction. On the other hand, women enter into treatment options sooner as their body becomes dependent on the substance compared to men. In the case of women, there are more cases of Co-occurring psychological distress and anxiety disorders. In the case of seeking treatment, there are differences between men and women. As a result of so many differences, both the genders’ treatment options are different, and their related effects.
The benefits associated with gender-specific treatment
Apart from the differences in substance abuse, both genders also have different expectations and targets from addiction treatment. There are multiple benefits of gender-specific treatment options, which encompass:
- It reduced sexual tension and deviations between female and male clients.
- The gender-specific treatment motivates the development of a sense of trust and bonding among same-sex clients.
- These treatment options have unique emotional, psychological, physiological, and relational effects.
- There are different supportive gender-sensitive therapies, including groups that inspire open communication about cultural and social pressures that may have resulted in substance abuse.
Female-specific treatment options
Women have a separate set of needs and requirements that need consideration while seeking alcohol and drug abuse treatment. Women are more comfortable communicating with others regarding workplace dynamics, motherhood, family life, and relationship in a supportive and safe environment. For this reason, addiction treatment centers in Florida have gained popularity as they have specially designed therapies and sessions for both genders. After a traumatic event, it is often beneficial for women to opt for gender-specific programs. In case they have experienced physical, verbal, or sexual assault, the center provides for one to one counseling options making the women comfortable to speak her heart out. Moreover, the support provided by professionals and counselors plays a significant role in leading women back to everyday life. The open communication option enables women to build a healthy support system within the center.
Male-specific treatment options
On the other hand, men have their own set of needs and requirements for drug and alcohol treatment. Male stereotypes and cultural roles play an influential role in this regard. It is the primary reason why men do not feel comfortable to opt for treatment options. The fear of being judged is the primary reason why they shy away from treatment options like dual diagnosis treatment in Florida. However, one thing that is of paramount importance is that men require more time than women to voice their opinion regarding their struggles with substance abuse. The drug rehab centers have male-specific treatment methods that address specific behaviors and thought patterns of the patient.
Substance abuse is something that may occur at any stage of life. By catering to both genders’ needs, the gender-specific treatment options provide women and men with the right treatment methods and tools to overcome substance abuse. They take into account the gender-specific requirements to design therapies that play an influential role in treatment.Hence you may opt for a treatment program in a gender-specific rehab facility so that you recuperate faster in the company of the same sex.
