Researchers have been studying gender-specific elements of substance abuse treatment since at least the 1970s. Although studies have not yet fully compared and contrasted the overall benefits of gender-specific treatment for substance abuse, some smaller circumstantial issues related to gender have been noted and studied. This research seems to suggest that in some cases, gender-specific or gender-sensitive methods can be highly beneficial in substance abuse treatment, especially in cases where mental health issues or “co-occurring disorders” are present. Scientists have also noted some differences in how and why men and women choose to seek treatment for substance abuse.
Florida drug and alcohol detox programs, as well as in many other parts of the United States, have responded to these ideas by implementing gender-specific treatment for substance abuse or incorporating gender-sensitive ideas into their existing programs. A men’s detox center or women’s detox center might be the key to long-lasting recovery for many people.
Gender-Specific Elements of Seeking Treatment
One of the main differences between men and women seeking treatment for substance abuse is how they access treatment. Whereas men often enter treatment through referrals from work or the legal system, women often first seek treatment by speaking with a primary care physician or mental health professional. With this understanding, men are often compelled to seek treatment by others while women tend to self-report difficulties with substance abuse.
Women are more likely to experience difficulty entering treatment for a number of reasons, such as:
- Issues related to childcare and familial responsibilities
- Economic issues related to supporting the household
- Increased stigma around substance abuse
- Barriers related to mental health
Co-Occurring Disorders and Gender-Specific Treatment for Substance Abuse
Anxiety and depression can occur in both men and women. However, these problems tend to impact the ability to seek and receive treatment for women. Studies have shown that women who are experiencing a mental health issue are less likely to seek treatment for substance abuse. However, studies have also shown that, in the case of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), both women and men receive greater benefit from substance abuse treatment if it is offered in a gender-specific program that is geared towards those experiencing PTSD.
Choosing a Gender-Specific Detox Program
There are many reasons that an individual might wish to enter a gender-specific detox program. A men’s detox program will be centered on the experience of substance abuse that men have, support groups will be able to offer a male perspective to members that is relatable. The same is true of women’s detox programs. Sometimes, clients will feel more comfortable sharing their experiences with people of their own gender or more open to hearing advice and critique from someone with similar life experiences.
Detox programs that are gender-specific not only provide clients with a relatable, comfortable environment but also cater more directly to the needs of each gender. Women’s detox programs might be able to provide care that specifically targets women who have children, while men’s detox programs might be able to better help clients share feelings and ideas openly with other men.
Similarities Between the Genders In Substance Abuse Treatment
Even though there are many, many differences between men and women when it comes to seeking treatment for substance abuse, there are also some similarities. Both men and women have a greater chance of maintaining their recovery if they attend and complete a substance abuse treatment program. Men and women have about the same rate of successfully quitting drugs and alcohol, as well as similar rates of relapse, even though their reasons for relapsing are often different. For some, addiction treatment for men and addiction treatment for women are the most effective ways to begin recovery.
If you or a loved one are considering seeking treatment for substance abuse at a gender-specific detox program, reach out to a treatment center near you and speak to a licensed substance abuse counselor today. Recovery is possible with the right help and support.