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Learn About Gender Differences In Substance Use Disorders Near Toms River

April 29, 2024

Individuals with substance use disorders (SUDs) have urges to take dependency causing substances like drugs and alcohol. These mental disorders impact both men and women, but are there differences in how the two genders experience SUDs? The latest studies say “Yes.”

Being aware of the gender differences in substance use disorders near Toms River can help you figure out when a loved one -- man or woman -- needs addiction treatment. It also helps addiction treatment providers, like Evolve Recovery Center Toms River, know how to care for patients. If you haven’t pondered how substance use disorders impact men and women before, examine the following details.

Do Both Genders Experience The Same SUD Symptoms?

Both genders generally show the same symptoms of SUD. These include:

  • Feeling urges to consume a habit-forming substance each day or many times a day
  • Experiencing intense impulses to use that distract you from other pastimes or obligations
  • Needing increased amounts of a substance to get the desired effect
  • Struggling to control how much or how often you use
  • Spending more than you can afford on drugs or alcohol
  • Prioritizing acquiring more of a substance over other commitments
  • Being unable to fulfill obligations because of substance use
  • Withdrawing from loved ones and social activities in order to use
  • Continuing to consume the substance even when you are aware it’s creating problems
  • Participating in dangerous or illicit pursuits to attain or take the substance
  • Experiencing withdrawal if you attempt to stop using a substance
  • You fail in every attempt to cease using

Although, addictive substances impact female individuals more speedily, so a substance use disorder progresses in less time in women. Women, therefore, have a greater likelihood of suffering severe symptoms before seeking treatment.

What Are The Noteworthy Differences In Substance Use Disorders Between Genders?

As indicated by new research about substance use, men experience an SUD in a different fashion than women. For example:

  • Men are more apt to take illicit drugs or misuse prescription drugs.
  • Women are more apt to misuse prescribed opioid pain relievers, anti-anxiety medications, and sleeping pills.
  • Men have higher rates of dependence for drugs and alcohol.
  • Death rates among women with alcohol disorders are 50 to 100 percent higher than men.
  • Women and men are similarly prone to have a substance use disorder.

Even though men are more prone to take illegal substances, women are more apt to misuse prescription drugs. This may be due to the fact that women are more willing to find treatment for sleep disorders, pain, and anxiety. And while more men consume addictive alcohol and drugs overall, female anatomy puts women at greater risk for deadly diseases caused by substance use. But it’s critical to realize that everyone who ingests addictive drugs or alcohol has a similar chance of developing a substance use disorder, and any SUD may be devastating or even lethal.

Do Men And Women Seek Addiction Treatment At The Same Frequency?

One significant gender difference in substance use disorders near Toms River involves treatment. More men seek addiction care than women. Women are often main caregivers and may not have a person to care for their loved ones if they start treatment. They also fear losing their young ones if they reveal their addiction. Men are less likely to have caregiving responsibilities that prevent them from seeking residential care services.

When they seek treatment, long-term recovery is challenging for all. Despite this fact, men have a better probability of accomplishing it because they are less inclined to relapse. Women relapse at higher rates because they are more probable to experience a debilitating substance use disorder or co-occurring disorders that inhibit recovery. They could also have trouble addiction centers that personalize treatment to their exact requirements.

These details should not dissuade anyone from seeking treatment. Recognizing these insights helps addiction treatment centers, families, and society in general gain a better understanding how to assist those working through SUDs. If you need help recovering from alcohol or drug addiction, reach out to a local, respected treatment provider today.

Discover Treatment That Recognizes Gender And Addiction Near Toms River

Men and women have different needs for SUD treatment. Evolve Recovery Center Toms River always tailors our care to your individual requirements. If you are looking for a safe environment to stay and work toward addiction recovery, phone us at 732-629-9672 or send in the contact form below. We answer right away, at all hours. Place the call now; we’re ready to help.