Women are binge drinking and developing alcohol use disorders more than ever. Previously, alcohol abuse affected three men for every woman. But studies say that today, the ratio is closer to 1:1. 

Alcoholism can lead to a host of health consequences if left untreated.  A comprehensive approach to treatment is needed to address the psychological and physiological aspects of the disorder effectively. 

Women who are seeking lasting recovery from alcohol abuse are encouraged to contact the women’s rehab center at Liberty Bay Recovery today at (855) 607-8758. 

Are the Effects of Alcohol Abuse Different for Women?

Women are drinking more these days for many reasons. It is thought that women have increased their alcohol use to help them cope with the stress and uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. 

As everything about their daily lives changed dramatically, some women sought easy ways to deal with the disruption created by lockdowns. Alcohol became their number one choice.

The increase in alcohol use among women is concerning because women are at higher risk than men for alcohol-related health consequences. Researchers have learned more about the impact of alcohol abuse on women, and their findings are notable. Keep reading for more information about alcoholism and women.

Women Have Higher BAC

Gender-related differences in brain chemistry and metabolism contribute to the adverse effects of alcoholism on women. When most women drink alcohol, they experience intoxication more quickly than men. Women have less water in their bodies than men, so they retain a higher concentration of alcohol in their tissues and blood. 

Women Develop Addiction Quicker

Women are more vulnerable to alcohol addiction than men for several reasons. Their physiology, hormone levels, neurobiology, and genetics are contributing factors. 

Risks of Health Issues Are Greater for Women

Some of the devastating health problems that make alcohol riskier for women are described in more detail below. 

Brain Damage

Why are women more vulnerable to alcohol-related brain damage than men? Because the brain region that controls memory and learning is smaller in women. Alcohol shrinks this area, causing cognitive decline more quickly in women.

Breast Cancer 

Breast cancer is another effect of alcoholism and women. This risk is attributed to how alcohol increases estrogen and other female hormones. These hormones are often associated with different types of cancer.

Heart Disease

The risk of heart disease is about the same for men and women despite women having a 60% lower history of alcohol use than men.

Liver Disease

Liver disease develops in women over a shorter period, even when consuming less alcohol than men. This problem is linked to increased estrogen levels caused by alcohol use.

Help for Women and Alcoholism at Liberty Bay Recovery 

At Liberty Bay Recovery, we understand the profound and unique effects of alcohol abuse on women’s and men’s health and life. We have created treatment programs that address specific issues and ensure that each client gets the level of care they need. 

With the right combination of counseling, skills training, motivational activities, and therapeutic sessions, our clients can find their way to lasting recovery. We offer a comprehensive approach to treatment that our former clients praise. Their positive testimonials are proof that you’ve come to the right place. 

If you would like to know more about how we can help you overcome an alcohol addiction, contact us at (855) 607-8758 today. You can reach your recovery goals with help from the skilled, compassionate team at Liberty Bay Recovery, 

The post How Alcoholism Can Impact Women appeared first on Liberty Bay Recovery Center.

Women’s drug abuse tends to advance from first use to addiction more quickly than with men. Millions of females ages 18 and older have used illegal drugs in the United States in the past year. If you or a woman you know struggles with a substance use disorder, reach out to Liberty Bay Recovery center at (855) 607-8758.

Substance Use Issues Unique to Women

Women who use drugs often cite a variety of biological issues for their actions. The most common issues include those related to:

• Menstrual cycles
• Menopause
• Fertility
• Hormones
• Pregnancy
• Breastfeeding

In addition, women describe reasons for drug use that include fighting exhaustion, dealing with pain, controlling weight, and attempting to self-treat a variety of mental health issues.

The Science of Women and Drug Abuse

In general, women use smaller amounts of drugs for less time than men before they become addicted. They can respond to substances differently than men, as well. Women often have more intense cravings for drugs and are also more likely to relapse.

Effects of Drugs on Women’s Bodies

Women may experience more effects on their blood vessels and heart, and the changes in women’s brains are different from those in men’s brains. Hormones are thought to be responsible for many of the differences in sensitivity to substances.

In addition, women who use certain drugs may be more likely to suffer from panic attacks, depression, and anxiety. Critical life events like divorce, the death of a loved one, or the loss of a child can trigger substance use in women more often than in men. Victims of domestic violence are more likely to use drugs, and women are more likely to go to the emergency room because of the effects of drug use. They are also more likely to die from an overdose.

The Importance of Gender-Specific Addiction Treatment

Treatment for women with substance use issues must be separate from treatment for men. Use disorders in women often progress differently一withdrawal may be more intense, and women can also respond differently to different treatments. Therefore, gender-specific treatment is often critical. Women may be afraid or hesitant to get help because of concerns regarding work, child care, and other daily responsibilities. Specific programs geared toward women can help and have shown excellent results.

Treatment must also be personalized to the individual. Just as men and women are not alike, no two women are alike, either. For example, one might benefit a great deal from dialectical behavioral therapy while another would fare better with medication-assisted treatment.

Counseling for Women with Substance Use Disorder

Differences between men and women influenced by sex (biology) and gender (culturally defined roles) create the need for unique substance use treatment programs. Women can encounter additional unique challenges, including low self-esteem, lesser wages, limited access to resources, and concurrent issues like eating disorders, post-traumatic effects, and mental conditions. You should get professional help from a women’s rehab center as early as possible. Programs will help women address the triggers and causes of their addictions, promote accountability, focus on healing, and engage in self-care while boosting confidence.

Overcoming Drug Abuse with Liberty Bay Recovery Center

Liberty Bay Recovery Center offers treatment programs attuned to the unique needs of women. Participants learn vital life skills that promote sobriety. If you or someone you know is ready to overcome substance use and regain the coping skills and self-empowerment needed to break addiction and stay sober, contact Liberty Bay Recovery Center at (855) 607-8758 or fill out a contact form.

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