Women

Researchers have found that women tend to use substances in different ways than men. For example, they might use smaller amounts for shorter periods of time but become addicted faster than men. Women may also respond to the same substances in different ways. Researchers have found women are more likely to experience strong drug cravings and are at a higher risk of relapsing. There are certain hormones that make women more sensitive to the effects of drugs than men, and women also tend to have more physical side effects associated with their substance use. According to research, women are more likely to go to the emergency department because of substance use or experience a fatal overdose.

Women who are experiencing domestic violence, divorce, loss of child custody, or the death of a loved one are at a greater risk of using substances. Also, women may be more likely to experience co-occurring mental health disorders like anxiety or depression when they use substances. There appear to be unique perceived barriers to treatment for men versus women. Men tend to be less willing to admit there’s a problem in the first place, frequently seeing it as a sign of weakness. Women are more likely to seek help when they’re dealing with a substance problem or mental health concerns, but their barriers might include needing to find someone to help them care for their children.

Substances most commonly used by women include:

• Stimulants. Research shows that when women use stimulants, it’s often because they want to increase their energy levels so they can get more done at home and work. Weight loss is another reason women report the use of stimulants like methamphetamine.
•  Prescription pain medicines. Women are more likely to have chronic pain conditions, which contributes to the higher rate of opioid prescriptions among women. Women are also more likely to misuse prescription opioids for pain management and to self-treat mental health problems, such as anxiety.
• Anti-anxiety medicines. Short-term anxiety medicines like benzodiazepines and prescription sleep medications are commonly misused, especially among women. Women are more likely than men to die from overdoses that involve a mental health medication, such as one for anxiety.

Liberty Wellness NJ offers New Jersey women’s addiction treatment programs on a flexible outpatient basis. Our programs offer different levels of outpatient care, including intensive outpatient programs and traditional outpatient rehab.