The topic of addiction has been highly studied for a long time now. However, until the 90s, these researches were primarily centered on men. Ultimately, our understanding of substance abuse or addiction was somewhat limited till recently.
According to the study conducted by The National Institute on Drug Abuse, addiction comes with some key gender differences.
Generally, 11.5 percent of men (over the age of 12) are more likely to abuse alcohol and illegal drugs, while only 6.4 percent of women have the chances of doing the same. But, the possibilities of women going to emergency rooms or experiencing fatal overdoses are more than men.
Significant Gender Differences In Addiction
The gender differences in addiction have tremendously changed over the last century. While men were 3 times more likely to have an alcohol addiction in the first half of the 20th century, the same figure has now plummeted to 1.2 times.
Many may deny the existence of gender differences in addiction as it appears both men and women have the same abilities to develop an alcohol or drug addiction. However, it is just what we can see on the surface. In fact, several societal and logistical factors impact differently on men, women, and their involvement in alcohol and drug addiction.
Moreover, the reasons for the development of addiction to men and women can be different. In the case of women, addiction is quite common with disadvantaged women such as those with a history of abuse, poor mental health, or low social status. Also, women are more likely to suffer from comorbid diseases as compared to men.
Several studies also concluded that women are more prone to physical effects of drug addiction or substance abuse. However, they are not as susceptible as men to mental stress or peer pressure.
Difference Between Addiction In Men And Women
Just like the reasons for addiction development vary in men and women, their response towards addiction is different as well. Drug rehab Orange County recommends gender-specific rehabs for this reason.
Typically, biological and hormonal differences in men and women cause major gender differences in addiction. In layman’s terms, this means that every substance impacts differently on men and women, which contributes to the development of addiction in both.
Heroin
Men are more likely to inject heroin as compared to women. On the other hand, women tend to choose fewer amounts of heroin for shorter periods. Mostly, women are introduced to this addiction due to romantic relationships. When it is about survival rates, women usually have better long-term survival rates, and men have better short-term survival rates.
Prescription Opioids
27 men and 16 women died from the overdose of prescription opiates in 2016. At first glance, it is customary to believe that the number of men dying due to opioid addiction is more than that of women; however, the rate of women with opioid addiction is increasing incredibly faster.
Alcohol
This is the most common substance that is abused in the United States by far. In the past, men had higher alcohol abuse and addiction rates. Nearly 20 percent of men experience alcohol use disorders (AUD) while the same is reported in around 7-12 percent of women. These figures are slightly different when it is about adolescent women of age 12-20 years. The rate of underage drinking or binge drinking is more in women than men of the same age.
Cocaine & Meth (Stimulants)
While men and women are equally likely to experience stimulants abuse, women’s chances of reporting the first use at a younger age are higher than the same in men.
Hormones are the primary factor to determine the difference between stimulant addiction in men and women. Women are more likely to experience higher cravings and chances of relapse due to the hormonal changes in the body during the menstrual cycle.
Women may get addicted faster than men and end up using larger doses due to the role of dopamine-infused reward effects of cocaine and meth. In men, the chances of reduced blood flow to the brain’s frontal parts are more than women.
Several cultural differences also contribute to this. Men continue cocaine and meth use to have a good time, whereas women do the same to get more energy or weight loss. Men also tend to switch drugs if they don’t get stimulants they want.
Final Words
No matter what differences the addiction in men and women have, seeking the right treatment can be a deal-breaker.
Otherwise, you may end up facing some severe consequences. If you or someone you love is struggling with alcohol or drug addiction, contact.
Our rehab and detox plans are your first step towards a more fulfilling and healthier life.
Also check: Mariposa Detox Center
I’m a 20-something stay-at-home mother and wife. I have an amazing husband, a beautiful daughter, two loving dogs, and a lazy cat. I wouldn’t change my life for anything! I love to read, listen to music, cook and blog!
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