Women And Addiction
Social, Economic, and other Factors that Complicate Addiction and Re
Although addiction strikes both men and women equally, it often affects women in unique ways due to childcare issues, stigma, and other socioeconomic issues.
Among the challenges facing an addicted woman, especially one who is either considering seeking treatment or attempting to maintain sobriety, are those that come with being a mother, partner, and caregiver. For women of any age, addictions often have put them in financially and otherwise dependent relationships with family members and significant others. Women with children face a greater stigma, both real and perceived, and the fear of this may prevent asking for help. Financial barriers to treatment and maintenance of sobriety exist on many levels, especially for single mothers, and may lead these women back into potentially unhealthy situations.
Women & Relationships Many addicted women’s relationships, both romantic and familial, are often closely tied to their use and abuse of drugs and alcohol. She may have a partner or parent who is a caretaker, or more likely be in a relationship where both parties are engaged in drug and alcohol use. Addiction often puts severe financial strain on both the user and those around her, so she may feel indebted or financially unable to leave a situation that is preventing her from succeeding in recovery.
Mothers & Stigma Especially when considering seeking treatment or other help, such as telling family members about a hidden addiction or taking time off for inpatient care, mothers may worry about what others think. The stigma does exist to a greater degree for women for men; traditionally regarded as primary caregivers of children, the responsibility of a mother to maintain constant sobriety and vigilance seems to be much greater than that of a father. Perceived stigma, or what she may tell herself others will say and think, is far greater because it is false - an exaggeration brought on by fear, guilt, and other causes.
Financial Barriers Economic stressors can be difficult for anyone seeking treatment, but exist especially for women with children, especially single mothers. Often inpatient treatment is not possible due to the cost of the program itself (and often no insurance), the need to take time off work, and adequate childcare for the duration of her stay. (These same challenges are often true for women who are married or in relationships.) Outpatient treatment is still costly, and still requires additional childcare options which may not be available to women with already few resources. Women attempting to maintain or begin their sobriety by attending AA or other self-help meetings are still faced with the need for adequate childcare, often at night.
