Drug & Alcohol Detox in Stirling
908-274-2043

All Calls Are Confidential

Stirling
908-274-2043
man and woman art cutout

Explore The Gender Differences In Substance Use Disorders Near Morristown

April 26, 2024

People with substance use disorders (SUDs) have compulsions to consume mind-altering substances like drugs and alcohol. These mental disorders are found in both women and men, but will the two genders experience SUDs in a different manner? The most recent research says “Yes.”

Appreciating the gender differences in substance use disorders near Morristown can help you determine when a loved one -- male or female -- needs addiction treatment. It also helps addiction treatment facilities, like Sunrise Detox Stirling, know how to support patients. If you haven’t pondered how SUD influences women and men before, take a look at the following information.

Do Women And Men Experience The Same Symptoms Of SUD?

Both genders generally experience the same substance use disorder symptoms. These include:

  • Feeling compelled to take a habit-forming substance every day or several times a day
  • Experiencing overwhelming impulses to use that take you away from other pastimes or obligations
  • Depending on increased doses of a substance to get the same effect
  • Struggling to control how frequently or how much you use
  • Spending more money than you can afford on a substance
  • Putting an emphasis on getting a supply over other obligations
  • Failing to fulfill responsibilities as a result of substance use
  • Withdrawing from people close to you and social interactions to keep using
  • Continuing to consume the substance even when you see it’s the source of your problems
  • Engaging in hazardous or unlawful pursuits to find or take the substance
  • Going into withdrawal if you try to quit using
  • You are unsuccessful in any effort to cease using

But, addictive substances influence female individuals more speedily, so a substance use disorder moves along quicker in women. Women, as a result, have higher odds of encountering serious symptoms before inquiring about support.

What Are Some Notable Differences In Substance Use Disorders Between Genders?

According to current studies about substance use, men do experience substance use disorders in a different fashion than women. To illustrate:

  • Men are more prone to use street drugs or misuse prescription drugs.
  • Women are more apt to misuse prescription opioid painkillers, anti-anxiety drugs, and sleep aids.
  • Men have elevated dependency rates for drugs and alcohol.
  • Fatality rates among women with alcohol disorders are 50 to 100 percent higher than men.
  • Men and women are just as likely to experience a substance use disorder.

So, while men are more apt to take unlawful substances, women are more prone to misuse prescribed drugs. This could be because women are more likely to seek treatment for anxiety, pain, and sleep disorders. And while more men take addictive alcohol and drugs overall, female biology puts women at an elevated risk for deadly diseases brought about by substance use. But it’s crucial to realize that everyone who takes addictive drugs or alcohol has an equal chance of encountering an SUD, and any SUD may be devastating or even deadly.

Do Women And Men Search For Addiction Treatment At The Same Frequency?

One notable gender difference in substance use disorders near Morristown deals with treatment. More men seek addiction care than women. Women are frequently primary caregivers and might not have an individual to look after their families if they enter treatment. They may fear losing their children if they disclose their substance use disorder. Men are less likely to have caregiving responsibilities that prevent them from seeking residential care services.

After they start treatment, long-term recovery is difficult for everyone. However, men have a greater probability of attaining it since they are less likely to relapse. Women relapse at greater rates as they are more inclined to have an intense substance use disorder or co-occurring disorders that inhibit recovery. They might also struggle to find addiction facilities that adjust treatment to their unique needs.

These details should not discourage any person from finding treatment. Understanding these insights helps addiction treatment centers, loved ones, and communities better understand how to assist those experiencing SUDs. If you need assistance recovering from substance addiction, call a local, reputable treatment center right away.

Get Treatment That Knows About Gender And Addiction Near Morristown

Men and women have different needs over the course of SUD treatment. Sunrise Detox Stirling always personalizes our care to your exact requirements. If you seek a hospitable environment to stay and work toward addiction recovery, dial us at 908-274-2043 or send in the following contact form. We reply immediately, night or day. Reach out now; we’re standing by to help.