There are gender-specific rehab centers that separate men and women during the recovery process. Although women and men can attend the same rehab center, they are likely separated to avoid any issues which may arise such as sexual tension.
Treatment facilities aim to provide a comfortable and stable environment. It is possible for there to be gender differences in the way drug or alcohol abuse occurs.
Because alcohol and drug use can affect members of the opposite sex differently, there are gender-specific treatment programs put in place to benefit those seeking treatment. Additionally, there are other reasons why rehab centers separate men and women.
To Avoid Replacing One Addiction With Another
One of the concerns drug rehab centers may have when allowing men and women to receive treatment is replacing one addiction with another. Although a person may stop substance abuse, they may turn to promiscuity, replacing a drug addiction with sex addiction.
To prevent this, as well as any sexual tension, treatment centers may separate men and women.
History Of Abuse & Safety Concerns
Men who have suffered sexual abuse from women and women who have suffered sexual abuse from men may have a difficult time in recovery when surrounded by the opposite sex.
Some struggling with drug or alcohol use seeking treatment have been victims of or perpetrated domestic violence.
To prevent any harm or harassment for others, a rehab may choose to separate women and men while in recovery.
Comfortability
Sometimes members of the same sex are more comfortable around one another due to potential common hobbies or likes. For instance, female patients may be more comfortable being around other females who struggle with drug addiction compared to men.
Likewise, men may relate to other men in more ways throughout recovery than with women. It is sometimes likely men may have more in common with other men as well.
Separate Addiction Treatment Programs For Men & Women
Sometimes rehab centers offer separate addiction treatment programs for men and women due to the unique needs each requires. Per the National Institutes of Health (NIH), these are known as gender-specific interventions, and they can be beneficial for both sexes.
Women’s Rehab Program
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), women are more likely to seek addiction treatment sedatives such as anti-anxiety and sleep medications while men are more likely to seek treatment for heroin use.
Addiction affects gender differently, including the pattern and method of abuse. For instance, women are more likely to face barriers accessing substance abuse treatment than men. Women are also less likely to have a problem with alcohol or participate in illicit drug use.
Men’s Rehab Program
Men may require a specific rehab program due to their own needs. Although anxiety and depressive disorders may affect men and women, it is more common in women.
However, men suffer from a greater prevalence of substance use disorders. In fact, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), men aged 18 or older have almost twice the rate of substance dependence as adult women.
Treatment Options For Both Men & Women
Many addiction treatment centers offer similar treatments that benefit both men and women.
Medical Detox
Medical detoxification is the process in which the body expels toxins caused by drug use. This process takes place in the beginning stages of treatment.
Detox may create withdrawal symptoms such as cravings for drugs or alcohol. Thankfully, healthcare professionals can monitor your progress throughout detox.
Inpatient & Outpatient Services
With inpatient and outpatient care, men and women can take part in a variety of treatments. Residential treatment allows you to remain at the facility 24/7 with access to professionals and medications.
With inpatient care, you can take part in group therapy, behavioral health programs, and learn techniques to help with sobriety. Those choosing outpatient treatment have options such as the intensive outpatient programs (IOP) or partial hospitalization programs (PHP).
Dual Diagnosis Treatment
If you suffer from a mental health disorder and substance use disorder, you may require dual diagnosis treatment. These co-occurring disorders require that both conditions be treated at the same time as well as at the same treatment center.
Aftercare Services
Participating in aftercare treatment services allows you to maintain your commitment to sobriety with resources geared to your specific needs. Aftercare services can include case management, sober-living homes, support groups, ongoing therapy, and more.
At our rehab center, we offer outpatient treatment options for men and women. Contact us today to form a treatment plan and begin your road to recovery.
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Sources:
- National Institute on Drug Abuse – Sex and Gender Differences in Substance Use
- National Institute on Drug Abuse – Sex and Gender Differences in Substance Use Disorder Treatment
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration – ADDRESSING THE SPECIFIC NEEDS OF WOMEN FOR TREATMENT OF SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration – Gender Differences in Primary Substance of Abuse across Age Groups