Alcoholism in women is a problem that until recently was not very accurately studied. In the past, studies on alcohol abuse were primarily conducted with male subjects. As the need for specific information on alcoholism in women became apparent, more studies were done on the effects of alcohol on females and the differences between the sexes.
Significant differences were found and before long it became apparent that there was a need for rehab treatment centers designed specifically to treat alcoholism in women because of their unique needs compared to men.
The Effects of Alcoholism in Women
It is estimated that nearly one-third of the 15.1 million alcohol-abusing adults in the United States are women. Statistically women consume less alcohol than men and overall have less health problems related to alcohol abuse.
For those women who seek professional help, the time between the onset of symptoms of alcoholism in women and treatment is shorter than that of men; however, it takes less alcohol and less time for women to develop health issues. Alcohol diffuses into the body water of the individual consuming it and because women have less water in their bodies than men do, alcoholism in women can cause health problems much sooner.
Who Suffers?
A common belief that has been studied and shown to be false is that women with multiple roles such as wife, mother, and employee are more likely to suffer from alcoholism because of the stress of those roles. Studies have found, however, that alcoholism in women is more prevalent among those who do not have these roles.
Women who are married, have children and/or are employed are shown to be far less susceptible to factors for alcoholism. Studies done between various races have not shown significant differences.
Seeking Help for Alcoholism
Seeking help for alcoholism in women may also be encouraged in different ways than for men. Women are shown to be far less likely than men to enroll in a program for treatment because of legal issues or due to a court order from a judge. Women are far more likely to seek treatment because of family and social issues, and are more likely to be encouraged by family members to seek treatment.
Additionally, women are shown to be more likely than men to be successful in rehab programs, especially in programs which are predominantly or solely for women. Women are shown to have a higher rate of sustained abstinence after an alcohol rehab program than men.
Destination Hope: The Women’s Program is a treatment center for drug addiction and alcoholism in women. Women are our first priority, and we strive to ensure that the specific needs of women are met for the best effectiveness. Alcoholism in women can be a difficult problem to treat but it is far from impossible.
With access to the right treatment, women can take back control of their lives and avoid the further consequences of alcoholism. If you or someone you love needs help, please call our counselors today.
