Addiction treatment is the best and most effective way to recover from addiction and get the skills you need to live a healthy, fulfilling sober lifestyle. Choosing to get addiction treatment is one of the best and most important decisions you will make in the course of your life. There are many things to consider when deciding where to seek treatment. You will need to determine if you want inpatient or outpatient care, if you want to seek treatment near home or in a different area, and if you would like to participate in gender-specific addiction treatment or not.
No matter your gender, it is important that you feel comfortable getting the addiction treatment you need. The program you choose should meet all your needs and allow you to feel safe and secure so that you can engage fully in your treatment plan. Many people choose to engage in gender-specific addiction treatment programs because they allow them this sense of security.
If you or someone you love requires addiction treatment and are considering gender-specific addiction treatment in West Palm Beach, learning more about this option can help you make an informed decision about your care.
Understanding the Differences Between Genders in Addiction
Research shows that addiction affects men and women differently. The differences start in the way men and women typically begin to use drugs.[1]
It is more common for women to begin using drugs or alcohol to self-medicate. Self-medicating means using substances to dull or cover-up difficult emotions. Women may begin to use substances to help them cope with strong feelings such as shame, anger, guilt, depression, or anxiety. Women are also more likely to dull the effects of trauma and help them function in their daily life. Women are significantly more likely to suffer from abuse or be the victim of an assault or other trauma. In the vast majority of cases, men are the perpetrators of these traumatic events.
Women are also more likely to begin abusing drugs or alcohol after their partner or spouse does. Family history of substance abuse affects women more often, too. The majority of women who seek addiction treatment have a family history of substance abuse.
Statistically, men are more likely to begin using drugs to get the substances’ desired effects. Men may begin using drugs or drinking to help increase their confidence or sexual performance or to help them concentrate. They may begin using recreational drugs in a social setting and then develop a dependence or addiction to them.[1]
The differences between how men and women use drugs and how the addiction affects them mean that they have different needs during addiction treatment.
What Happens in Gender-Specific Addiction Treatment?
Gender-specific addiction treatment programs in West Palm Beach include the same aspects as other treatment programs, but the programs are offered to different genders to allow for separation between the two. Programming is offered by staff who have an awareness of the roles of gender in addiction and have experience in working with different genders.
Addiction treatment typically involves:
- An evaluation
- Medically-supervised detox
- Group therapy
- Individual therapy
- Education
- Nutritional support
- Aftercare planning
- Medications and medical care
- Mental health treatments
- Holistic therapies
Gender-specific addiction treatment can be offered in a variety of settings, including residential, inpatient, and outpatient.
Five Benefits of Gender-Specific Addiction Treatment
There are many beneficial aspects of gender-specific addiction treatment. Some of the most important include:
- Ability to focus on gender-specific relational, physiological, emotional, and cultural aspects of addiction.
- Opportunity to bond with people of the same gender who have had similar experiences with addiction.
- Minimized sexual tension or awareness.
- Tailored support groups allow people to share their stories and perspectives to an understanding audience.
- Better communication and increased understanding between peers and staff.
Gender-specific drug rehab allows people the opportunity to focus solely on their recovery without having to cope with the gender differences that sometimes stall progress or take up time in co-ed programs. For women who have experienced abuse or trauma from men, gender-specific addiction treatment call allow them to feel safe enough to engage in their treatment. Men may also benefit from the chance to speak freely without worrying about adhering to strict gender norms or societal expectations.
Get Help Finding a Gender-Specific Addiction Treatment Program in West Palm Beach
If you or someone you love needs the support of an addiction treatment program in West Palm Beach, please reach out to the staff at the Mandala Healing Center. We offer a range of programs, including gender-specific options, that are designed to empower you on your journey in addiction recovery.
Regardless of your gender, it is important for you to remember that you are not alone. With the right support and treatment, recovery from addiction is possible. Don’t wait another day for the life-saving treatment you need and deserve. If you are ready to get started, call one of our admissions counselors today.
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