Are Women More at Risk of Developing Substance Use Disorder and/or Mental Health Issues?

Women's substance use is often ignored because it intersects with society's beliefs about women's roles and motivations even without addictive use. It's complex, and can end up being deadly.

Drinking or drug use conflicts internally and externally with women's beliefs about their role and themselves. Naturally women hold many secrets. That skill, along with the cultural and familial stigma against women using substances - by it's very nature - makes women experts in hiding the reality of their use. 

This is only one of the reasons why women often progress into advanced addiction before others around them even have a clue.  When the signs or symptoms of addiction manifest family members often don't even see them.  Women are good at hiding their addiction. Fact.

One reason is that women wonder where they can find someone to trust and to talk to privately about these concerns. They have a lot to loose if their use becomes known. This can turn into secret burdens that often lead to anxiety, depression, and a lost sense of self

So, what's the solution?

Substance use is often a secretive, isolating experience for women. Even if a women thinks she ought to be able to drink as she wishes there are lots of cultural stereotypes that get in the way. This comflict can take a serious toll on a woman’s emotional, physical, and mental health. The choice to hide the reality of using substances is very risky.  

As long as confidentiality is trusted, a women can quietly  choose to get the help she needs in overcoming the issues she has been struggling with by herself. Getting the concerns out in the open with someone safe is a good beginning.  It will be a relief to talk about it.

If you or someone you know would like to explore treatment options, please get in touch. I would be honored to walk with you on your journey. I've been through it myself and working with others for over 20 years. Call me at 609-342-7502 or fill out the form and I'll get back to you soon.