Researchers studying addiction have known for decades that when it comes to women and alcoholism, women’s needs are different from men’s needs. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism has demonstrated, for instance, that women are far less likely to seek professional help than men are. They also point out that even though more men abuse alcohol than women, women tend to develop more severe problems with alcohol than men do. The point they are making about women and alcoholism is a simple one. In order to overcome their addiction, women need top-quality alcohol addiction treatment. At New Bridge Foundation®, this is precisely what we offer.
Women and Alcoholism: The Effects
When considering women and alcoholism, it is vital to understand that alcohol has a more intense effect on women’s bodies because their body mass is so different from that of men. More specifically, because women’s body mass is comparatively lower to that of men, alcohol can remain in their bloodstream longer. This can result in more side effects and can make women more prone to addiction. In other words, women and alcoholism can be a dangerous combination.
Some of the physical effects of alcohol on women include, but are not limited to:
- Dehydration
- Increased risk of infertility and disruption of the natural menstrual cycle
- For pregnant women, increased risk of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
- Increased risk of breast cancer, liver disease, heart conditions, and brain trauma
This says nothing of the social and emotional consequences related to women and alcoholism. For example, women are more likely to be sexually assaulted after they have been drinking. The relationship between women and alcoholism is costly from both a physical and psychological standpoint.
Women and Alcoholism: A Woman’s Specific Needs
It does not take an addiction specialist to understand that women’s needs are different from men’s needs when it comes to rehabilitation. In recovery, women’s needs must be addressed directly. For instance, women need to be able to open up about topics during addiction counseling services that are central to their sobriety with the acknowledgment that these are sometimes different from those of men. The ability to discuss issues like motherhood, children, relationships, and family is crucial to their recovery.
It is also sad but true that many issues surrounding women and alcoholism involve harassment, domestic violence, or sexual assault. These types of traumatic events can easily lead to alcohol abuse as women attempt to self-medicate.
At New Bridge Foundation®, women can find the help they need in an environment that is attuned to their individual needs, and particularly to their needs as women. We aim to foster a sense of mutual support and camaraderie among women that can result in genuine long-term recovery.
Reach Out to New Bridge Foundation® Today
At New Bridge Foundation®, we are well-equipped to address the individual needs of each and every woman who enters our care. Among our many treatment programs you will find:
- Individual and group counseling (including gender-specific groups)
- Family education and support groups
- Dual diagnosis treatment for co-occurring disorders
- Relapse prevention education
- Health and wellness education
We also offer a medically assisted detox program, short- and long-term residential rehab programs, comprehensive outpatient care, as well as a well-developed aftercare program to help ensure that you achieve and maintain the sobriety you deserve.
If you are concerned about women and alcoholism and think that you or someone you care about might be struggling, don’t hesitate. Reach out to New Bridge Foundation® online today or call us at 866.772.8491. We are here to support you, every step of the way.