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Explore The Gender Differences In Substance Use Disorders Near Fort Lauderdale

April 26, 2024

All people with substance use disorders (SUDs) feel compelled to use dependency causing substances like drugs and alcohol. This mental disorder is found in both women and men, but will the two genders endure SUDs differently? The latest studies say “Yes.”

Being aware of the gender differences in substance use disorders near Fort Lauderdale can help you determine when someone you care about -- man or woman -- needs addiction treatment. It’s also useful for addiction treatment providers, like Sunrise Detox Fort Lauderdale , when determining how to support patients. If you haven’t thought about how SUD affects men and women before, consider the following information.

Do Both Genders Experience The Same Symptoms Of SUD?

Women and men generally experience the same SUD symptoms. These include:

  • Feeling compulsions to use addictive substances every day or several times a day
  • Having acute impulses to use that distract you from other needs and activities
  • Requiring larger quantities of a substance to experience the wanted effect
  • Struggling to control the quantity and frequency you use
  • Spending in excess of what you can afford on alcohol or drugs
  • Prioritizing acquiring a supply over other responsibilities
  • Failing to fulfill responsibilities as a result of alcohol or drug use
  • Withdrawing from family and social interactions in order to use
  • Continuing to consume the substance even if you are aware it is the source of your problems
  • Participating in hazardous or illegal pursuits to find or use the substance
  • Experiencing withdrawal if you try to halt use
  • Failing in any attempt to stop using

Although, addictive substances affect females more quickly, so a substance use disorder advances in less time in women. Women, as a result, are more likely to encounter acute symptoms before seeking help.

What Are The Noteworthy Differences In Substance Use Disorders Between Women And Men?

According to recent studies about substance use, men will experience drug or alcohol use disorders in a different manner than women. For example:

  • Men are more prone to take street drugs or misuse prescribed medications.
  • Women are more apt to misuse prescription opioid painkillers, anti-anxiety drugs, and sleeping pills.
  • Men have higher dependency rates for drugs and alcohol.
  • Death rates for women with alcohol use disorders are 50 to 100 percent higher than in men.
  • Men and women are just as likely to experience a substance use disorder.

Although men are more likely to use illicit substances, women are more likely to misuse prescriptions. This could be due to the fact that women are more willing to seek treatment for anxiety, pain, and sleep disorders. And although more men use habit-forming alcohol and drugs generally speaking, female physiology puts women at higher risk for deadly diseases caused by substance use. But it’s crucial to remember that everyone who uses addiction-causing drugs or alcohol has the same chance of developing a substance use disorder, and any SUD can be devastating or even lethal.

Do Women And Men Search For Addiction Treatment At Similar Rates?

One noteworthy gender difference in substance use disorders near Fort Lauderdale deals with treatment. More men pursue addiction support than women. Women are often the chief caregivers and may not have someone to look after their family members if they start treatment. They also fear losing their young ones if they disclose their addiction. Men have a decreased possibility of having caregiving duties that prevent them from pursuing residential care services.

When they start treatment, enduring recovery is a challenge for all people. Despite this fact, men have a better shot of accomplishing it since they are less likely to relapse. Women relapse at greater rates since they are more inclined to have an intense substance use disorder or co-occurring disorders that inhibit recovery. They might also have difficulty finding addiction facilities that adjust treatment to their specific requirements.

This discussion should not deter any individual from getting treatment. Knowing these insights helps addiction treatments facilities, families, and society as a whole better understand how to help those working through SUDs. If you need help recovering from alcohol or drug addiction, call a local, reputable treatment facility right away.

Find Treatment That Understands Gender And Addiction Near Fort Lauderdale

Men and women have differing needs during SUD treatment. Sunrise Detox Fort Lauderdale always customizes our care to your individual needs. If you are searching for a hospitable place to stay and work on addiction recovery, phone us at (954) 869-9759 or complete the contact form below. We respond right away, day or night. Get in touch now; we’re here to help.