When it comes to substance abuse, women have different experiences that both influence and fuel their addiction. Biology, self-image, life experiences, daily circumstances, and relational conflict can all affect women and addiction statistics. In addition,
women’s substance abuse treatment centers often provide programs that are unique to the needs of women.
Numerous studies also reveal that women may abuse prescription medication or illicit drugs due to menopause, breastfeeding, pregnancy, fertility, or their menstrual cycle. Statistics show that exhaustion, pain, mental health problems and the need to control weight factor into ongoing substance abuse or chemical dependency.
Key Women and Addiction Statistics
Women may start out using small amounts of drugs or alcohol. However, the addiction grows over time and typically accelerates over a short period. Some key women and addiction statistics reveal the following data including:
- 20 million females 18 or over have used some type of illicit drug in the past year
- Over 8 million females 18 or over have abuse prescription medication in the past year
- From 1999 to 2014, the number of women who are addicted to opioids has quadrupled
- Using tobacco, alcohol, or drugs has contributed to over 5,000 infant deaths since 2005
- 7 to 12 percent of women in the U.S. abuse alcohol
- The number of women who have died from a prescription medication overdose has increased by 400 percent since 1999.
Recent Addiction Treatment Data for Women
According to the most recent data released by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), women are less likely to seek treatment for alcohol or drug addiction than men. There are four key reasons for this including:
Greater Stigma Toward Treatment
Women have a higher resistance toward addiction treatment due to the common perceptions of a women’s rehab program. Rehab centers are often viewed as cold, clinical, and not effective. In spite of all the improvements made in treatment centers over the past two decades, women still have these false perceptions.
Hiding the Problem
Women are far better at hiding their addiction than men. One of the reasons for this is that women often exhibit more restrained behavior than men when they are under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Furthermore, they are more discreet about using drugs or alcohol.
Maternal Role in the Family
Mothers are often protective of their maternal role in the family. Their addiction is not just a personal weakness. They perceive it as a sign of their weakness as a parent and caregiver. Furthermore, mothers are more concerned about bringing shame to the family or hurting the family’s reputation.
Economic Issues
Women may also face economic barriers to seeking treatment for addiction. Single mothers may not have the financial resources to work, care for their children, and get help for addiction at the same time.
Learn More About Women and Addiction Statistics
If you would like to find out more about women and addiction statistics, then speak with a treatment specialist today. Addiction treatment programs provide a wide range of options for helping you end your addiction and get on the road to recovery.
