While men and women are both likely to become addicted to drugs or alcohol, the relationship between addiction and each gender varies significantly. For this reason, addiction treatment centers in Maryland offer gender-specific treatment. Men’s treatment and women’s treatment is typically offered in different locations and programs.
Treatment specialists recognize the fundamental differences between how each gender becomes addicted to drugs and alcohol and the type of treatment to sustain a lasting recovery. Several factors lead to addiction, including genetics, substance tolerance, and how chemicals affect brain function, life experiences, stress levels, and mental health issues. When men and women receive treatment based on their individual needs, they are more likely to address these issues and recover without relapse.
What Are the Benefits of Gender-Specific Treatment?
There are several benefits of gender-specific treatment. One of which is there being fewer distractions during rehab. It’s not uncommon for men and women to feel less comfortable sharing their issues around the opposite sex often due to abuse. This tension can lead individuals to feel intimidated and withdraw from group therapy setting back everyone’s progress. Other social distractions make it more challenging to concentrate on recovery. Treatment that is specific to each gender makes it easier to complete rehab without distractions.
Rate of Recovery
Women are less likely to develop a drug or drinking problem than men. However, they are also more likely to do something about their addiction. Yet, women have a more difficult time overcoming addiction. As a result, they are more likely to develop more severe behavioral, social, medical, and psychological problems. This can affect their rate of recovery. A women’s rehab program allows women to recover at their rate without being compared to men. The same is true for men.
Less Time Spent on Gender Issues
It is common for both men and women to get into discussions that focus more on gender than recovery when both genders are in group therapy. This occurs due to poor communication and a fundamental lack of understanding of each group’s needs. Gender-specific treatment eliminates discussions centered around gender and gives participants more time to focus on the real issue – why they are in recovery.
Peer Support and Friendship
Both men and women appreciate the value of peer connection and camaraderie. When a person is among their male or female peers, they feel safer and unhinged to express themselves. They also feel less shame about their condition. The gender-driven treatment promotes loyal support and friendship that can last long after rehab is over.
Domestic Violence and Abuse Issues
Many women suffer from physical, verbal, and sexual abuse. These types of issues can be too traumatizing to share in a group setting where men are present. Women need to feel as though they are safe to talk about childhood or adult trauma. They are more likely to talk about their experience without men around. Gender-specific treatment gives them the space to do so.
What Types of Treatment Are Available?
There is a wide range of treatment options available to both men and women, including:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Dialectical behavior therapy
- Group therapy
- Residential programs
- Outpatient programs
- Gender-specific community housing
- Drug and alcohol detox centers
Each type of treatment is designed to help clients with addictions and mental health issues. A treatment specialist can develop a plan that allows the client to get off drugs or alcohol and stay off for good.
Learn More About Gender-Specific Treatment at TruHealing Centers
If you would like to learn more about gender-specific treatment, contact TruHealing Centers at [Direct]. We offer both men’s treatment and women’s treatment at our addiction treatment center in Maryland.