Category: Substances

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What Is The Most Addictive Drug?

The most addictive drug varies from person to person. Some genetic mutations make certain drugs more addictive than others. Or, you might find yourself drawn to a seemingly “less addictive” drug, like nicotine, that feels just as powerful as a narcotic. 

With that said, scientists have narrowed down a few of the top addictive drugs. Their addictive potential comes from reactions, communications, and changes in the brain. 

But for each addictive drug, you have resources for recovery. You can speak with your care team to decide which route of treatment works best for you—like going to rehab. 

Heroin

Heroin comes from certain poppy plants. As an opioid, heroin is highly addictive and can change the structure of your brain1 over time. It usually comes from South America. Dealers often cut heroin with starches, sugars, or sedatives—some of which can have unpredictable and unwanted effects. 

Pure heroin looks like a white powder and tastes bitter. Impure heroin is called “black tar” for its sticky feel and dark color (from impurities). 

You can snort powdered heroin or smoke it. For black tar heroin, you can inject it into your veins or muscles once it’s been dissolved and diluted.

Heroin absorbs into mucous membranes in your nose and lungs—or, if you inject it intravenously, it dissolves directly into your bloodstream. 

Once ingested, heroin bonds to mu-opioid receptors in your brain and activates them2, which turns off GABAergic neurons. GABAergic neurons keep dopamine from rushing along your reward circuit. Once the opioid receptor turns GABAergic neurons off, dopamine runs free, which causes a rush of euphoria and a strong sense of general well-being. 

Activating the reward system like this tells your brain opioids are about as great as it gets. Add in the distressing withdrawal symptoms, and getting more can feel like an urgent need. And as you keep taking heroin, you’ll need higher doses to feel the same high as your first time2—which means you’ve built up a tolerance. 

Much of heroin’s danger lies in this rapid high-low pendulum swing.  Soon, you might need high doses to keep from feeling sick. Trying to chase your first high, you might accidentally overdose. 

Taking too much could cause your breathing to slow to null3. You might also feel constipated, nauseous, and extremely itchy. Long-term use can knock your neuronal and hormonal systems off balance4—sometimes permanently. 

Alcohol

As a depressant, alcohol suppresses the central nervous system. And, alcohol is both socially accepted and easy to get—a tricky combination. Alcohol causes a sense of happiness and well-being5, which activates your brain’s reward system. It sees alcohol as medicine and, eventually, as something you inherently need to survive. 

Because of its addictive nature and easy access, alcohol is one of the most dangerous substances to abuse6. Over half the visits to emergency rooms have something to do with alcohol. It’s also one of the 2 most-used substances, the other being nicotine. 

Different alcoholic drinks have different levels, or percentages, of alcohol. For example, an alcoholic seltzer drink is usually 5-8% alcohol; in something like vodka, the rate goes up to 40%. 

As with illicit drugs, you can build a tolerance to alcohol. So, you might need to add a splash of vodka to your seltzer or have an extra glass of wine to feel how you’re used to feeling on alcohol. The longer this continues, the more you’ll need to drink. 

Withdrawals include insomnia, anxiety, tremors, and seizures. For many, safely detoxing from alcohol requires medical supervision. 

Nicotine

Nicotine, like many other drugs, causes a release of dopamine7. But with nicotine, the rush isn’t quite as intense as something like heroin. Nicotine has such addictive power because of its repetitive nature7 and because you can use it with other activities (and substances). 

Smoking a cigarette or vaping can enhance the pleasure of other activities7, like watching a movie, partying, having a cup of coffee, or listening to music. Even though nicotine only adds to these activities, your brain still associates it as the source of joy in those situations. And so, you learn to keep smoking, subconsciously chasing satisfaction.

What used to be fun and motivating might seem boring or too mundane without the added boost from nicotine, so stopping can be challenging7. You might even feel like nothing’s enjoyable without smoking. That’s because nicotine represses your natural dopamine-release functions, and once they’ve been suppressed for so long, it can take time for your brain to adjust and provide its own. 

Though unpleasant, nicotine withdrawals won’t hurt you8. You may have a bad headache and experience cravings. You might also feel more anxious and hungry. But all withdrawal symptoms pass with time. 

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines, or benzos, subdue the central nervous system. They’re usually prescribed to help with anxiety, panic disorders, and insomnia9 for their calming, sedative effects. But benzos can also be highly addictive.

Some benzodiazepines can cause dependence faster than others. But usually, people use them with another drug9 to balance or complement other effects. Alcohol and benzos, for example, produce an enhanced calm but can dangerously suppress the central nervous system.

The benzodiazepine Rohypnol, AKA roofies, acts as a powerful sedative. Some misuse benzos like Rohypnol against others. But usually, benzodiazepines appeal for their countering effects against opioids and for self-sedation.

Benzodiazepine withdrawals9 can feel extremely uncomfortable. You could experience nightmares, anxiety, insomnia, psychosis, hyperpyrexia (extremely high fever), and convulsions. For those reasons, detoxing under medical supervision is a safer option. 

Methamphetamines

Doctors may prescribe the psychostimulant methamphetamine, or metamfetamine, to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)10. In healthy doses (for those who need it), methamphetamine’s effects resemble the brain’s fight-or-flight response10. This response  increases energy, alertness, and focus. But it’s also a drug of abuse with a high potential for addiction.

Methamphetamine looks like a white powder11 or crystal-like rocks. It’s relatively easy to make and cheap to buy. Many pseudo-scientists make methamphetamine in discreet labs, usually hidden off the beaten path.  But most meth comes from larger labs in Mexico and overseas countries. 

Methamphetamine releases dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine10, which contribute to pleasure, satisfaction, and alertness. Using methamphetamine for pleasure can cause binges, since the desired effects only last a few minutes. And because meth is one of the cheaper stimulants and easy to get, feeding the binges might not seem like a problem. 

But, as with other drugs, your brain changes with repeated doses. You might build up a tolerance12, prompting higher doses. Your brain may also stop producing dopamine and serotonin on its own. 

Methamphetamine withdrawals12 can cause cravings, depression, anxiety, violent behavior, confusion, insomnia, hallucinations, delusions, and psychosis. 

Cocaine

Cocaine is another highly addictive stimulant13. It’s also one of the most common illicit drugs14 in America. 

Cocaine prevents the reuptake of dopamine14, meaning dopamine stacks up on dopamine receptors. This sends an intense rush of pleasure and stimulates the entire reward pathway15, causing your brain to see cocaine use as intrinsically rewarding. Even the sights, sounds, and places associated with cocaine use can trigger the need for a dose. 

As with many other drugs, you can become used to the effects of cocaine, or “tolerant”. You’ll need more and more to feel the same high as your first time. This puts you at risk for an overdose. New dangers also lie in adding vermisol to cocaine15, which is used as a cutting agent. Sometimes, fentanyl even makes its way in. 

The withdrawals from cocaine16 include insomnia, tremors, cravings, and hyperactivity. 

Crack Cocaine

Crack cocaine is a smokeable version of regular cocaine17. So it’s also a stimulant, and addictive, but even more potent due to how it’s ingested. Before it’s smoked, crack cocaine looks like small rocks or crystals. 

The membranes in your lungs absorb crack cocaine18 easily and quickly, resulting in an almost immediate high. The high goes away faster than powder or liquid cocaine, which could prompt a binge—smoking until you run out of crack or money.  

The reinforcing action is even more powerful in crack cocaine17. Your brain thinks it’s a good idea to keep having more more often, trying to realize the pleasure it knows crack can give.

Barbiturates

Similar to benzodiazepines, barbiturates are a depressant19 generally used for anxiety, headaches, seizure prevention, and insomnia. Those who misuse this prescribed medication usually do to counter the effects of other drugs—typically stimulants like cocaine.

You can take barbiturates as a pill or liquid. Barbiturates make you feel sleepy, relaxed, and at ease19. They can also impair your memory and judgment, and make you irritable. You might also feel paranoid and suicidal.  

Overdosing on barbiturates19 causes your heart rate to rise, your breathing to slow, and your body temperature to lower. Overdoses can also cause comas and death.  

Methadone

Doctors prescribe methadone, a synthetic opioid20, to treat opioid use disorders (OUDs). It relieves cravings, reduces withdrawal symptoms, and doesn’t provide the same “rush” of euphoria as other opioids. At the correct dosage, these factors make methadone a valuable treatment element20 for OUDs. 

Part of what makes methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) effective is the low risk for addiction. And, in MMT, you don’t have to share needles or risk taking heroin, cocaine, etc., of unknown purity20. Doctor oversight adds another element of safety. 

But methadone does have an addictive element. The usual dose for OUD management ranges from 60+mgs20. Sometimes, patients in treatment buy extra doses from others or hoard doses to eventually get a euphoric effect from methadone. 

Taking too much methadone can cause dangerous effects, especially if you’re on other medications. Signs and symptoms of an overdose20 include dizziness, slurred speech, unconsciousness, slow pulse, shallow breathing, tiny pupils, and frothing at the mouth. 

Naloxone reverses the overdose effects of methadone20, as it does with other opioids. 

Marijuana

Marijuana, or weed, comes from the marijuana plant. Its addictive psychoactive properties lie in the THC21 (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) in marijuana. You can ingest marijuana in many ways21—smoking the leaves, drinking it in tea, eating foods with weed, and smoking concentrated weed in the form of a sticky resin.

Weed produces a sense of relaxation22 and a milder feeling of euphoria. Weed can also make you pretty hungry (or, give you the munchies) and laugh easily. You’ll experience these effects right away if you smoke weed. 

Eating it slows the onset by a half hour or more, which could prompt you to redose, thinking it’s not working. Taking too much can cause anxiety, fear, paranoia, and panic22—the opposite of what weed usually feels like. Extremely high doses can even cause acute psychosis.  

Marijuana activates the reward system23 in your brain, causing a flood of dopamine to course along your reward pathway. After continued use, your brain teaches you to keep having weed as a way to feel reward and satisfaction. Continued usage can also impair your memory, learning abilities, and balance23.

Starting weed at a young age leads to a higher risk of addiction24. But anyone at any age can find themselves addicted, meaning they’d feel withdrawal symptoms and be completely unable to stop—even when they know they should. In states that don’t monitor distribution, the potency of THC continues to rise too. This creates consequences scientists and health professionals haven’t fully realized yet. 

But for each substance and its potential for addiction, you have opportunities to recover. 

Find Effective Drug Addiction Treatment Near You

The most addictive drug could vary widely from person to person. While one person might struggle to stop smoking cigarettes, someone else might not feel able to stop drinking—but drinking isn’t a problem for the first one. 

Fortunately, treatment for drug addiction caters to this variance. You can get the care you need at a residential rehab, outpatient facility, or detox unit. Your care team can help you decide which type and level of care will best meet your needs. 
To see a comprehensive collection of rehab facilities, you can browse our list of drug addiction rehabs to see photos, prices, reviews, insurance information, and more.

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What Does OxyContin Look Like?

If you’re worried about opioid addiction, it can be helpful to know what OxyContin looks like. This brand of prescription painkillers can be dangerous if you take them improperly. It’s easy to identify OxyContin tablets because they’re all imprinted with either “OC” or “OP.” However, the 7 doses of OxyContin all look a little different from each other. 

The answer to what OxyContin pills look like will depend on how strong the dose is. 

10 mg Pill

  • Color: White
  • Shape: Round
  • Imprint: OC or OP on one side; 10 on the other side

15 mg Pill

  • Color: Gray
  • Shape: Round
  • Imprint: OC or OP; 15

20 mg Pill

  • Color: Light pink
  • Shape: Round
  • Imprint: OC or OP; 20

30 mg Pill

  • Color: Brown
  • Shape: Round
  • Imprint: OC or OP; 30

40 mg Pill

  • Color: Yellow
  • Shape: Round
  • Imprint: OP or OC; 40

60 mg Pill

  • Color: Red
  • Shape: Round
  • Imprint: OC or OP; 60

80 mg Pill

  • Color: Green
  • Shape: Round
  • Imprint: OC or OP; 80

What Is OxyContin?

OxyContin is the brand name for oxycodone, a type of opioid. By definition, all opioids are narcotic painkillers.1 What sets OxyContin apart from similar drugs—like morphine, codeine, and hydrocodone—is its extended release.2 When you take OxyContin, the tablets dissolve slowly and release oxycodone at a steady rate for up to 12 hours. 

What Is OxyContin Used For?

Doctors prescribe OxyContin to treat moderate to severe pain. Because it lasts longer than other pain medications, most people take OxyContin for conditions that require consistent relief over a long period of time. This includes pain resulting from arthritis, serious injuries, cancer, and other conditions. 

Is OxyContin Addictive?

OxyContin has been a subject of concern due to its addictive potential. Initially introduced in 1996, it was marketed as an effective prescription painkiller with a low risk for misuse.3 However, within a few years, the landscape changed dramatically. By 2004, OxyContin had become one of the most widely misused drugs in the United States. 

Despite its intended purpose for chronic pain relief, when people take OxyContin for chronic pain they can quickly become dependent on the drug. Physical dependence isn’t the same as addiction4—it just means your body now relies on certain doses to find relief. Addiction, on the other hand, occurs when you’re no longer able to control behaviors that negatively affect your life. If taking increased amounts of OxyContin is the only way you can get pain relief, your risk of addiction increases. 

It’s important to recognize OxyContin’s addictive potential and use caution when taking this medication. If you have concerns about your OxyContin use or think you may be developing an addiction, consult a healthcare professional for appropriate guidance and support.

OxyContin Prescription Use vs. Misuse

OxyContin, like other prescription medications, has legitimate uses but also carries a risk of misuse. 

Prescription use of OxyContin is when patients who have a legitimate medical need for pain management take the drug under the guidance of a healthcare professional. When used as prescribed, OxyContin can provide relief and improve the quality of life for people with chronic pain.

However, misuse occurs when you use OxyContin in a way that doesn’t follow your doctor’s instructions.5 This can include taking higher doses than recommended, using the medication more frequently than prescribed, or using it without a valid medical reason. Misuse of OxyContin significantly increases the risk of adverse effects, dependency, and addiction.

The line between prescription use and misuse can sometimes become blurred. Some people may initially receive OxyContin for a legitimate medical purpose but gradually veer into misuse because of increased tolerance, desperation for pain relief, or other factors. It’s essential to use OxyContin strictly as directed by a healthcare professional and to promptly communicate any concerns or changes in pain management needs so they can adjust your prescription safely and appropriately.

What Are the Street Names for OxyContin?

OxyContin goes by a variety of street names:6

  • O.C. 
  • Hillbilly Heroin
  • Oxy
  • Oxycet
  • Oxycotton

How Is OxyContin Abused?

People with opioid addiction may want to bypass OxyContin’s extended release7 by snorting or injecting it. This is extremely unsafe, because then you can’t predict how strong the dose will be, or how quickly it will take effect. 

When you snort OxyContin, it’s absorbed by the membranes of your nostrils. It goes directly into your bloodstream instead of first traveling through your digestive tract. If you inject the drug, it bypasses even your nostrils, so your body absorbs OxyContin even faster.8 This brings on a more intense euphoria. Injecting drugs also puts you at risk of diseases9 like HIV and hepatitis. 

Can You Overdose on Oxycontin?

OxyContin is a potent opioid and can cause overdose if used improperly or in excessive amounts. The specific dosage required to overdose on OxyContin can vary depending on factors such as your tolerance, body weight, and overall health. That’s why it’s crucial to adhere to the prescribed dosage and consult a healthcare professional for guidance throughout the course of OxyContin use.

Overdosing on OxyContin can have severe consequences and may even be life-threatening. Some common symptoms of an OxyContin overdose10 include:

  • Extreme drowsiness or sedation
  • Slow, shallow, or difficult breathing
  • Constricted pupils
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Cold, clammy skin
  • Weakness or limpness
  • Slurred speech
  • Bluish tint to lips or fingertips

Overdosing can cause seizures,11 brain damage, heart attack, and respiratory depression—slowed breathing that can become fatal.

If you or your loved one shows signs of an OxyContin overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Risks of overdose increase when you combine OxyContin with other substances like alcohol or other opioids.

What Are the Risks of OxyContin Use?

OxyContin is a powerful opioid. The U.S. opioid crisis12 started in the 1990s and is still a major problem. As doctors overprescribe opioids like OxyContin, more people are at risk of addiction, overdose, and turning to even more potent street drugs. 

Physical Risks

Like any opioid, OxyContin depresses your nervous system.13 In other words, it slows down communication between your brain and body. Your heart rate, breathing rate, and blood pressure all go down. This can cause you to stop breathing, go into shock, or even die. 

Abusing OxyContin also puts you at risk of injuring yourself or someone else.14 That’s because opioids can make you dizzy, confused, or poorly coordinated. Data shows an alarming rise in elderly people injuring themselves15 from falls while using prescription opioids. 

Psychological Risks

Over time, opioid use alters your brain’s reward system.16 You might begin to feel normal when OxyContin is in your system, and abnormal when it’s not. OxyContin also impacts your mental health. People who use opioids have higher rates of anxiety,17 irritability, lack of motivation, and depression. 

From Prescription to Street Drugs

If you first start taking OxyContin to manage chronic pain, it can become hard to function without it. Over time, you might need higher doses of the drug to achieve the same effect.18 This is a dangerous pattern, and it can quickly lead to addiction. 

If you can’t get a high enough dose of OxyContin from a prescription, you might look for other sources. When it’s sold illegally, OxyContin can be very expensive. But more affordable opioids, like heroin,19 are often impure and even more addictive. 

Following your doctor’s instructions, and bringing up any challenges you’re experiencing with your prescription, can avoid escalating OxyContin use. You can also ask your doctor about non-opioid-based pain management.

Find Treatment Options for OxyContin Addiction

When you’re ready to heal from OxyContin addiction, it’s important to get professional support. OxyContin withdrawal symptoms can be dangerous—and even fatal. The only safe way to detox from opioids is with proper medical care.


To start recovery from OxyContin, learn more about opioid addiction treatment programs here.

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The Link Between Substance Abuse and Domestic Violence: Understanding and Breaking the Cycle

There’s a strong relationship between substance abuse and domestic violence. Abuse is traumatic, and its effects can follow you even after you end the relationship. Many people use drugs or alcohol to cope with that trauma, which can quickly lead to addiction. But addiction is traumatic, too. What starts as a coping mechanism might eventually compound the problem. When you’re ready to end this cycle, a rehab that treats trauma and addiction can help you move forward.

If you or someone in your life is experiencing domestic violence, you can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) to get immediate support. 

What Is Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence is the intentional use of force by a family member, romantic partner, roommate, close friend, or other loved one. There’s a common myth that all abuse is physical assault. In reality, domestic violence can be much more subtle and complex. You don’t have to wait for it to escalate. Instead, you can get help as soon as you notice any of these types of abuse, no matter how minor they may seem:

  • Intimidation
  • Destroying property 
  • Physical assault
  • Verbal insults
  • Social isolation
  • Forced sex
  • Harming pets
  • Financial, physical, or emotional control
  • Coercion to have sex, drink, or take drugs

Domestic violence can happen to anyone, regardless of their age, gender, or social standing. There’s also a complex relationship between substance use and domestic violence.1 These 2 issues often go hand in hand, and each one makes the other more likely. 

Both perpetrators and survivors of abuse have high rates of addiction.2

The Impact of Addiction on Domestic Violence

Addiction is common among perpetrators of domestic violence.3 25-50% of intimate partner abusers have substance use disorders. And as an abuser’s addiction grows more severe, both the frequency and severity of their abuse increases.4 

It’s important to note that most people experiencing addiction are not violent5 towards others. However, the influence of drugs or alcohol can make people with violent tendencies more likely to act on them.

By definition, being drunk or high changes your brain chemistry.6 As a result, drinking or using drugs can change the way you think, feel, and react to stress. You might be less capable of controlling your anger, making violence more likely. Ongoing drug use increases your risk of violent behavior7 over time. 

Social norms can also contribute to higher rates of violence. In some cultures, “I was drunk” is an acceptable excuse for a wide range of negative behavior, from telling secrets to picking fights. When people feel like they can blame their actions on substances, they may drink or use drugs to justify ongoing violence.8 This mindset can also prevent them from getting the help they need.

Women experiencing alcohol or drug addiction are also more likely to become victims of domestic violence.9 However, studies show that this often relates to their partners’ substance abuse issues even more than their own.

Substance use doesn’t cause domestic violence. And blaming violence on a person’s addiction—whether they’re the survivor or the perpetrator—removes the abuser’s responsibility.

Facts on Substance Abuse and Domestic Violence

Data shows a strong connection between correlate substance use and domestic violence: 

  • Domestic violence survivors are nearly 6 times more likely to develop alcohol addiction. 
  • Nearly 50% of women who enter addiction treatment are domestic violence survivors. The rates are much higher for women in opioid addiction treatment. 
  • When both people in a relationship use substances, their risk of interpersonal violence goes up.
  • 39% of incarcerated abusers have a history of alcohol addiction.
  • 22% of incarcerated abusers have a history of drug addiction.
  • Substance use is involved in up to 80% of child abuse cases.
  • Teens and young adults who were abused in childhood have a higher risk of addiction.
  • Serious physical violence occurs in 8-13% of all marriages.
  • Women who abuse substances are at a higher risk of domestic violence.

How Domestic Violence Can Lead to Addiction

Domestic violence survivors are at a high risk of addiction.12 That’s partly because it’s so common for survivors to self-medicate13 the symptoms of trauma. Survivors are also more likely to experience mental health issues.14 So they may use drugs or alcohol to cope with the symptoms of another diagnosis, like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Addiction in Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence

Many people cope with the trauma of intimate partner violence (IPV) by using drugs or alcohol.19 For many survivors, this occasional coping method quickly turns into addiction—especially if you lack other coping strategies. Survivors of IPV also tend to have more severe addiction symptoms. 

Physical injuries from IPV can also lead to addiction. For example, it’s common for IPV to result in chronic pain or traumatic brain injury. Both of these conditions increase your risk of addiction. But developing an addiction also increases your risk of experiencing IPV again, and this can quickly become a cycle. Seeking treatment can keep you safe from further violence. 

Special Considerations for Men Who Have Survived Domestic Violence 

Although most research focuses on women survivors, 25-50% of people who survive IPV each year are men.20 And like women, studies show that male survivors of domestic violence are more likely to develop addiction. But the cultural stigma that male survivors face can be a barrier to treatment and recovery. 

Treatment for Addiction and Domestic Violence-Related Trauma

When you’re recovering from abuse and addiction, it’s ideal to find treatment that addresses both at the same time. Studies show that comprehensive treatment is more effective21 than seeking help for trauma and addiction separately. 

How Does Comprehensive Treatment Work?

Most rehabs that address both addiction and domestic violence offer trauma-informed care. Trauma affects everyone differently, and its impacts can be surprising. A trauma-informed approach accounts for your unique needs during recovery, even as those needs change.

Recognizing your triggers and respecting your boundaries is a huge part of this. For example, you’ll be able to say “stop” at any point in therapy, and take a break or change the subject. The physical environment will also be conducive to healing with well-lit common areas, no loud noises, and safety features like security personnel at entrances and exits. 

Integrated treatment also accounts for the role of trauma in addiction.22 For example, if you’re in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), you might learn how to cope with trauma triggers without using drugs or alcohol. These skills can help you navigate long-term recovery from both conditions. 

Aftercare Planning for Survivors of Domestic Violence

For survivors, aftercare includes more than ongoing mental health support. While that’s important, it’s just one part of your safety. In most programs, you can start planning for aftercare as soon as you enter treatment.

When you start rehab, your therapist may ask you to sign a no-contact contract,23 where you’ll agree not to communicate with your abuser during treatment. But after rehab, it’s not always that simple. If you have children with them or share assets like a house, the legal system may require some amount of contact. 

It’s also common for survivors to be socially isolated24 and have fewer financial resources immediately after an abusive relationship. So as you approach the end of treatment, you’ll work with your therapist to create a concrete safety plan25 for after you leave. That plan might include: 

  • Intentions around if, when and how you’ll be in contact with your abuser, including information about your legal rights
  • A safe place to live
  • A new phone number, email address or other contact information your abuser won’t have access to
  • A local therapist
  • In-person support groups
  • Relevant hotlines for social services
  • Other community resources

Healing from abuse is a deeply personal process, and every survivor has unique needs. Your provider can help you find the resources you need to achieve your recovery goals.

You can start healing from abuse and addiction in treatment centers around the world. Rehabs that treat trauma will help you plan for a safer, brighter future. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Domestic Violence and Addiction

How does substance use affect domestic violence?

Substance use is common among both perpetrators and survivors of domestic violence, and it can increase the risk and severity of violent behavior. Alcohol and drugs change brain chemistry, making it harder to control anger and increasing the likelihood of violence.

How can rehab help with domestic violence and addiction?

Rehabs that specialize in treating both addiction and trauma offer a safe, supportive space where survivors can heal from the trauma of abuse while also addressing their addiction. Treatment often includes individual and group therapy, medical care, and complementary therapies. Rehab can also provide survivors with the skills and tools they need to build a healthy, substance-free life after leaving the program. It’s important to choose a rehab that’s equipped to handle both issues and has experience working with survivors of domestic violence.

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What is Hangover Anxiety?: Why Drinking Causes ‘Hangxiety’

Hangover anxiety, or hangxiety, isn’t a diagnosis, but rather how you feel after a night of drinking alcohol. A hangover has physical symptoms like nausea and a headache, but you can have mental effects as well.

Drinking responsibly likely won’t lead to these negative feelings; however, if you’re consistently drinking a lot and feeling hangover anxiety, then it may be time to look for help. Getting treatment for alcohol addiction can help you get a handle on your drinking, so you don’t have to wake up with worry the next morning. 

Hangover Anxiety or ‘Hangxiety’

75% of those who get a hangover have some impairment in their normal functioning1, like difficulty concentrating. On top of that, roughly 22% of drinkers also experience psychological effects like anxiety and depression after a night out. This is what we call hangxiety.

What Does Hangover Anxiety Feel Like?

When you start drinking, alcohol drives a surge of endorphins in the brain2, which feels good at first. Then, after this rush, there’s a decrease in blood alcohol concentration (BAC) which leads to a form of withdrawal. This is what we commonly refer to as a hangover.

This withdrawal affects you physically and mentally, including provoking anxiety and depression symptoms. Hangover anxiety can look different for everyone, but these are some common symptoms:

  • Restlessness
  • Anxiousness
  • Ruminating on yesterday’s events
  • Heart racing
  • Feeling guilt
  • Difficulty concentrating

What Causes Hangover Anxiety?

After your endorphins drop, your brain can quite literally feel exhausted the next day. Your body uses a lot of energy trying to maintain homeostasis after being affected by the alcohol. And cortisol, the stress hormone, releases after drinking3, making you feel even more anxious. 

These factors can also exacerbate hangnxiety symptoms:

1. Social Anxiety

You might use alcohol as a “social lubricant” if you experience social anxiety. This can cause you to drink more than you should. Though for those few intoxicated hours you may feel less anxious, these feelings return as the alcohol wears off. And if you have a hangover from excessive alcohol consumption, your anxiety can skyrocket. Alcohol will enhance whatever emotional state you’re in, so if you’re anxious, it’s going to come back in full swing.

2. Water intake

Alcohol is a diuretic, so drinking it makes you dehydrated. This can contribute to hangover anxiety because low water intake, which happens while drinking, is associated with detrimental effects on mood4. The more hydrated you are, the better chance you have of being in a good mood.

3. Sleep

Alcohol causes poor sleep quality5 because it messes with your rapid eye movement (REM) cycle. This, in turn, negatively affects your mood because getting proper sleep is vital for good mood and functioning. 

4. Emotional dysregulation

Emotional dysregulation is a common symptom in disorders like anxiety and depression. It’s also associated with intense cravings, higher alcohol consumption, and is commonly experienced during hangovers6. Lowered emotional competence during a hangover can lead to negative mood and thoughts, or, what you may feel during hangxiety. This can also contribute to regretful drinking behaviors.

5. Repetitive negative thinking (RNT)

Repetitive negative thinking (RNT) is negative thought patterns that are recurring, unproductive, and common in disorders like anxiety and depression. It’s also a part of emotional dysregulation. These patterns of thinking are associated with prolonged negative emotional states6, so this can exacerbate symptoms when you experience hangover anxiety. 

How to Cope with Hangxiety

The best way to avoid hangxiety is to avoid drinking, especially in excess. Doctors recommend drinking a minimal amount of alcohol because excessive alcohol consumption can lead to various health problems such as liver damage, heart disease, and certain types of cancer.

However, if you do decide to drink, there are a number of ways you can cope with your hangover anxiety and make this experience manageable:

However, drinking responsibly, or being abstinent, can help you avoid these feelings all together.  

How to Have Fun Without Alcohol

Life can be just as fun, if not better, without alcohol. You’ll feel healthier and more energized, which can help you do more outdoor activities like hiking or kayaking. You’ll also save a lot of money from not buying drinks, which you can spend on new experiences like travel or exploring the area you live in.

You can also talk with your therapist and dig into the real reasons why you’re drinking alcohol. Why are you having this drink? And why do you feel like you need to drink so much? This can reveal deeper issues that you can work through together. 

When to Seek Professional Help for Your Drinking and Anxiety

Taking a step back and assessing the role that alcohol plays in your life, especially if you have pre-existing anxiety or depression, is crucial. If you’re using alcohol as a crutch, and as a coping mechanism to suppress difficult feelings, then it may be time to reach out for help.

Mental Health Treatment Options

Alcohol is a depressant, so it can aggravate your existing conditions. If you drink to escape your anxiety or depression, treating the root cause of your disorder can help mediate this issue.

Attending an outpatient program can teach you skills to help you replace your drinking with healthy coping techniques. You’ll explore how drinking has been a way to hide from uncomfortable feelings, and then you’ll learn how to face those hard emotions. You’ll likely practice different talk therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to learn new positive ways of thinking. 

Virtual treatment for anxiety and depression can be a great way to learn these tools with more flexibility. You can prioritize healing and see how it fits into your life.

Alcohol Addiction Treatment Options

Detox with a licensed professional may be the first step in your sobriety journey. Safely ridding your body of alcohol can help you feel clear minded and ready to tackle treatment. Different levels of residential or outpatient care can help you replace your unhealthy coping mechanism, drinking, with positive habits.

A great option post-treatment is sober living homes. These programs are less structured than residential rehab, and provide a comfortable place for you to focus on your recovery. While living here, you’ll likely attend an outpatient program, go to work or school, and grow with other companions in recovery. 

Life Without Worry in the Morning

Drinking socially and safely is perfectly acceptable, but if heavy drinking and hangxiety is a normal thing that you’re getting addicted to as a coping mechanism, then it’s time to get help. Life can feel so much more fulfilling without hiding behind alcohol. Embrace your true self and find freedom through rehabs for alcohol addiction.

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California Sober: What Is It and What Does It Mean for Addiction Recovery?

What does it mean to be “California sober?” This is a relatively new idea in addiction recovery. And while some people swear by it, it’s certainly not right for everyone.

What Does it Mean to Be California Sober?

“California sober” is a relatively new term in addiction recovery. It’s not a clinical term, and it has a very loose definition. Singer Demi Lovato popularized it when they described using marijuana and alcohol during recovery from opioid and stimulant addiction1 after a nearly fatal overdose:

“Telling myself I can never have a drink or smoke marijuana is setting myself up for failure because I am such a black-and-white thinker. I had it drilled into my head for so many years that one drink was equivalent to a crack pipe.”

Some people say being California sober means only using marijuana while abstaining from alcohol and other drugs. Other people say that it’s using marijuana in addition to psychedelics or natural drugs like kratom or kava. Some people in recovery for alcohol addiction may still drink in moderation and consider that as being California sober. The term means vastly different things to different people.

On the other hand, traditional sobriety is the complete abstinence from all alcohol and drugs. It’s much more strict than being California sober. However, even if you take this approach to recovery, there are some gray areas. For instance, people using medication-assisted treatment (MAT) still qualify as traditionally sober if they’re only taking medications that treat addiction.2 

Abstinence is a popular approach to recovery in 12-Step programs and most residential rehabs. And studies show that while traditional sobriety isn’t the only way to recover from substance abuse,3 people who remain abstinent from all drugs and alcohol often report a better overall quality of life. 

California Sober as a Form of Harm Reduction

Harm reduction interventions,4 like being California sober, aim to reduce the harmful consequences of substance abuse. So with this approach, you might limit the number of daily drinks you have instead of quitting alcohol entirely. The goal is sustainability, not total abstinence.

Moderation means different things to different people. Some replace “hard” drugs like methamphetamines, opioids, or stimulants with “soft” drugs like marijuana, natural psychedelics, or alcohol. The belief is that these natural drugs are safer5 than synthetic drugs. However, that’s not necessarily true.

Does Going “California Sober” Work?

Many people think “soft” drugs are automatically safe.6 And it’s true that drugs like marijuana typically have a lower risk of overdose and other negative effects. But they’re not entirely harmless. 

Every substance has the potential to be addictive—even marijuana. Over time, any type of substance use hijacks your brain’s reward system. Experts believe that addiction to one drug might even make you more sensitive to other drugs. If that theory is correct, then going California sober might just increase your risk of developing a new addiction.

Is Marijuana a Better Alternative?

Despite what many people think, you can become addicted to marijuana. In fact, studies show that about 30% of people who use marijuana become dependent on it.7 You may feel more irritable, less hungry, or even experience cravings for up to 2 weeks if you quit using marijuana.  

Some data also suggests that marijuana might be a gateway drug.8 One study found that adults who used marijuana were at a much higher risk of alcohol addiction. Whether because of social pressure or brain chemistry, cannabis use might make it harder to abstain from drinking.

On the other hand, marijuana’s health effects may help some people reduce their use of other drugs. For example, marijuana is a powerful painkiller.9 Some doctors are using it to decrease patients’ need for opioid medications. Experts note that this treatment can “dramatically lower opioid use and can provide pain relief.”  If you’re in recovery from opioid addiction, going California sober might be extremely helpful.

The Downsides of Being California Sober

“Soft” drugs can harm your mental and physical health just as much as “hard” drugs. Regularly using marijuana can have a variety of harmful effects:10

  • Lung irritation, illness, and infections for people who smoke
  • Increased heart rate, which raises your risk of heart attack
  • Severe nausea and vomiting 
  • Paranoia
  • Depression and anxiety
  • Worsened symptoms for people with pre-existing mental health conditions, especially schizophrenia 

It’s also common for people who are California sober to use psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin, which is found in mushrooms. And while many people believe that these drugs are completely safe, both psilocybin and LSD can cause mental health symptoms:11

  • Panic attacks
  • Increased delusions
  • Flashbacks to negative experiences
  • Impaired memory

Alcohol also causes serious long-term physical health effects:12

  • Heart disease
  • Cancer, including mouth, liver, and colorectal cancer
  • Alcohol-associated hepatitis and cirrhosis
  • Stroke
  • Reduced bone density 

Natural drugs like kratom and kava can also cause long-term harm13 to your body. For example, long-term use of kava can damage your liver14 and kidneys. It can also exacerbate any pre-existing mental health symptoms.

No Set Standard of Sobriety

Each California sober person in recovery gets to decide which drugs they can use, when, and how often. And because it isn’t set in stone, you may find yourself changing your definition of sobriety to slowly include more and more frequent drug or alcohol use. This flexibility can become a slippery slope back toward addiction. Traditional sobriety sets strict boundaries around alcohol and drugs that may be more difficult to cross. 

Increases Your Risk of Relapse

George Koob, director of the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, explains that the California sober trend may trigger relapse:15

“I think substituting one intoxicant for another has a lot of dangerous pieces to it. What if you decided to smoke marijuana and then decided to drink a little alcohol? An intoxicant can help with withdrawal, but it can also act as a cue and trigger craving for a drug.”

Your risk of relapse is especially high16 if you used to drink or smoke marijuana while using more dangerous drugs. For example, if you would typically drink and use cocaine at the same time, drinking in recovery may trigger your cravings for cocaine.  

Doesn’t Address the Root Cause of Your Addiction

Trauma is a common cause of addiction.17 Being California sober might still enable you to self-medicate the symptoms of trauma, just with “softer” drugs. You might continue to seek out substances or behaviors that help you cope with triggers. This can be less harmful than using “harder” drugs—but it’s even better to address the underlying cause of your symptoms.

Potential Benefits of California Sober

While there are risks to practicing moderation, being California sober may benefit people seeking more grace in their recovery. 

Reduced Stigma

Recognizing that success is a spectrum can reduce the amount of stigma18 you experience in recovery. Some abstinence-only programs teach that relapsing is a sign of failure. However, most people relapse 3-4 times19 before finding long-term success. 

Dr. Brian Hurley, director-at-large for the American Society of Addiction Medicine, explains: 

“I’m less interested as an addiction physician in focusing on whether somebody is completely abstinent from every substance ongoing forever, and I’m more interested in: How have their lives changed in response to treatment? How are their behaviors improving?” 

According to harm reductionist philosophy, any positive change is a success.20 Being California sober means not punishing yourself for very normal parts of recovery, like relapse and cravings. Instead, it can help you embrace the challenges of healing. 

More Support and Access to Treatment

Many rehabs require clients to be abstinent21 from all substances. For some people, this can be a barrier to treatment. Data suggests that if people with severe addiction can access free and immediate treatment, many will still refuse because they don’t want to be totally abstinent. 

Studies show that moderation-based treatment plans can be effective for long-term recovery,  compared to abstinence-only programs. For example, people recovering from alcohol addiction are more likely to drink more heavily during a relapse than people practicing moderation. Being California sober can teach you how to manage your drinking, which may help you continue to drink at a healthier level. 

Expert Opinions on Going “California Sober”

Many experts in the field of addiction recovery critique the idea of being California sober. Some, like addiction treatment administrator April Marier, say it’s just ineffective. Marier compares the trend to “switching seats on the Titanic22 — it’s not going to save you; you’re still going down.” 

Others, like addiction specialist Ken Seeley, say the very idea could be harmful to other people in recovery:  

“I think the term ‘California sober’ is quite disrespectful to the sober community.23 I know a lot of people that work really hard to hold their abstinence and fight for their lives in recovery, and to bring up this new term, ‘California sober’ is so inappropriate.”

But some addiction experts, like Dr. Marlene Martin, see the benefits of being California sober.24 Everyone should have support in reaching their personal recovery goals, Martin says: 

“For some people, it’s reducing, for some it’s discontinuing, for some people it might be harm reduction—not getting HIV or not overdosing. There are lots of ways people who use drugs can improve their health and well-being.”

Choose the Sober That Helps You the Most

Everyone’s pathway to recovery is different. Even if you wouldn’t seek treatment that requires abstinence, you can still heal from addiction. However, if you need to set stricter boundaries around drug use, traditional sobriety may be more achievable. 

Recovery can also be a fluid process. You don’t have to decide everything in advance. Even Demi Lovato says that they are now “sober sober,”25 because being California sober stopped working for them. But other celebrities continue to practice this type of moderation. There’s no one right way to heal.

You have the right to decide what healing means to you. 


Connect with a residential rehab program to learn more about your options for recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions About Being “California Sober”

What does it mean to be “California sober?”

Being “California sober” means that people avoid “hard” drugs like cocaine, opioids, or stimulants with “soft” drugs like marijuana, natural psychedelics, or alcohol.

What are the risks of being “California sober?”

“Soft” drugs like marijuana or natural psychedelics can harm your mental and physical health, and can still be addictive. Because there’s no set standard for sobriety, it can be a slippery slope back toward addiction.

Is being “California sober” a form of harm reduction?

Yes, being “California sober” is a harm reduction approach. It aims to reduce the harmful consequences of substance abuse by limiting the number of daily drinks or drug use instead of quitting entirely. The goal is sustainability, not total abstinence.

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How Does Alcohol Addiction Affect Women?

Women experience alcohol addiction differently than men! You might start drinking for different reasons, engage in different behaviors, and face different consequences. Rehabs that offer women-only treatment address those differences head-on. They put your addiction into the context of your life experience as a woman. These supportive communities provide a safe place for you to begin healing.

Understanding Alcohol Addiction in Women

Studies show that alcohol addiction among women is on the rise. ((Women and Alcohol | National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/women-and-alcohol. Accessed 21 Apr. 2023.)) While drinking can be a problem for people of every gender, it has pronounced risks for women. For example, women have higher rates than men of emergency room visits due to alcohol use. This could be because cis women tend to be more sensitive to the effects of alcohol.

Why Alcohol Affects Women Differently Than Men

While men are at a higher risk of alcohol addiction, women are more likely to face alcohol-related problems, even when they drink less than men.

This is partly because of differences in size and metabolism. On average, women are physically smaller and weigh less than men. If both a smaller and a bigger person drink the same amount of alcohol, the smaller person’s blood alcohol concentration will be higher. They’ll feel more drunk and be more likely to experience hangovers or blackouts.

Even for men and women of the same size, hormonal differences contribute to the increased effects of alcohol on women. ((Women and Alcohol | National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/women-and-alcohol. Accessed 21 Apr. 2023.)) Because sex hormones are part of brain chemistry, they can directly affect the way your body responds to alcohol.

Societal and Cultural Factors in Women’s Drinking Behaviors

As a legal substance, alcohol is often socially acceptable. But social pressures can change the way people—and especially women—choose to drink. For example, women are more likely than men to drink in secret, ((Blume SB. Alcoholism and women’s health. Public Health Rep. 1987 Jul-Aug;102(4 Suppl):38-42. PMID: 3120219; PMCID: PMC1478015.)) which can prolong their addiction.

Women are also more likely to experience traumatic events ((Minority Women and Alcohol Use. https://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/arh26-4/251-256.htm. Accessed 21 Apr. 2023.)) like physical or sexual assault. And it’s very common for survivors of sexual and physical violence to use alcohol ((Ullman SE, Lorenz K, Kirkner A, O’Callaghan E. Postassault Substance Use and Coping: A Qualitative Study of Sexual Assault Survivors and Informal Support Providers. Alcohol Treat Q. 2018;36(3):330-353. doi: 10.1080/07347324.2018.1465807. Epub 2018 Apr 25. PMID: 30555208; PMCID: PMC6290351.)) to cope with traumatic memories and distress.

While it’s socially acceptable for men to express negative feelings, women are expected to internalize stress, ((“Alcohol Use Among Girls and Young Women: A WORRYING TREND.” Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). https://store.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/SAMHSA_Digital_Download/PEP22-03-10-010.pdf)) depression, and anger. This makes women more likely to use drinking as a coping mechanism.

Alcohol’s Effect on Women’s Mental Health

Alcohol affects everyone’s mental health, but women with alcohol addiction face a higher risk of developing certain diagnoses: ((Beckman LJ. Treatment Needs for Women With Alcohol Problems. Alcohol Health Res World. 1994;18(3):206-211. PMID: 31798108; PMCID: PMC6876404.))

We need more data to understand whether alcohol addiction causes mental health problems, or vice versa. Either way, there’s a strong link between these issues.

The Impact of Alcohol Addiction on Women’s Physical and Reproductive Health

Women are more likely to develop physical health problems ((Women and Alcohol | National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/women-and-alcohol. Accessed 21 Apr. 2023.)) from alcohol addiction:

  • Liver disease, including alcohol-related hepatitis. This can lead to permanent liver scarring (cirrhosis), a serious and life-threatening condition.
  • Heart disease
  • Brain damage, especially for women who began drinking heavily as teenagers.
  • Memory loss, including blackouts while drinking and permanent memory loss
  • Breast cancer

Alcohol addiction also affects women’s reproductive health. Studies show that heavy drinking may decrease your chances of getting pregnant. ((Van Heertum K, Rossi B. Alcohol and fertility: how much is too much? Fertil Res Pract. 2017 Jul 10;3:10. doi: 10.1186/s40738-017-0037-x. PMID: 28702207; PMCID: PMC5504800.)) Conversely, women who face infertility issues are more likely to drink heavily in response to unsuccessful attempts.

If you do get pregnant, alcohol is not safe in any amount during pregnancy. ((CDC. “Alcohol Use During Pregnancy.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4 Nov. 2022, https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/fasd/alcohol-use.html.
)) Drinking while breastfeeding can also pose a risk. ((CDC. “Alcohol and Breastfeeding.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4 Oct. 2022, https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/breastfeeding-special-circumstances/vaccinations-medications-drugs/alcohol.html.)) But studies show that while not drinking is the safest option, moderate drinking and waiting 2 hours before nursing can reduce harm to the baby. Heavily drinking and nursing right away can harm your baby’s development, growth, and sleep health. Plus, high alcohol consumption can decrease milk production and limit your ability to breastfeed.

Challenges of Alcohol Addiction as a Woman

In Western culture, women addicted to alcohol face certain unique challenges, which may impact the way you approach treatment. Each of these challenges can get more extreme due to the overwhelming social stigma against women with alcohol addiction.

Increased Risk of Violence and Sexual Assault

Drinking alcohol as a woman increases your risk of experiencing violence. ((Klein, Andrew. “Practical Implications of Domestic Violence Research.” US Department of Justice. https://www.ojp.gov/pdffiles1/nij/225722.pdf)) Data shows that for survivors of domestic violence, this is more related to your abuser’s drinking than your own. That’s because women with addiction are more likely to be in relationships with other people who also have addiction. Women with alcohol addiction face a lower risk of violence when they have partners without addiction.

Drinking is also risk factor for sexual assault. ((Maryland Collaborative to Reduce College Drinking and Related Problems. (2016). Sexual assault and alcohol: What the
research evidence tells us. College Park, MD: Center on Young Adult Health and Development.)) That’s true whether the perpetrator or the survivor has been drinking. Perpetrators purposely target women who are drinking heavily because they’re more vulnerable. This can also lead to and victim-blaming and stigma against survivors of sexual assault. It’s important to remember that regardless of your drinking, you are never responsible for someone else’s choice to commit violence.

This stigma against women who drink while pregnant is even stronger. This stigma often leads to blame and shame rather than support and care, particularly affecting marginalized groups.

Public health messaging often emphasizes the risks of any alcohol consumption during pregnancy, which, despite scientific uncertainties, has contributed to a culture of blame. This culture disproportionately impacts marginalized groups, including women of color and those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. Such stigma can deter women from seeking prenatal care or being honest with healthcare providers, potentially exacerbating health risks for both mother and child.

Barriers to Treatment for Women

Social stigma has very real consequences. Women are less likely to receive treatment ((Women and Alcohol | National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/women-and-alcohol. Accessed 21 Apr. 2023.
)) for alcohol addiction than men. In addition, women face many more barriers to alcohol addiction treatment: ((Beckman LJ. Treatment Needs for Women With Alcohol Problems. Alcohol Health Res World. 1994;18(3):206-211. PMID: 31798108; PMCID: PMC6876404.))

    • Fear of legal consequences
    • Concern about childcare and children, including worrying about losing them
    • Feelings of guilt, denial, and shame
    • Difficulty receiving referral from primary care physician
    • Lack of independent financial resources or insurance coverage to pay for treatment
    • Social acceptance of certain women’s drinking behaviors like #winemom culture

((Harding KD, Whittingham L, McGannon KR. #sendwine: An Analysis of Motherhood, Alcohol Use and #winemom Culture on Instagram. Subst Abuse. 2021 May 5;15:11782218211015195. doi: 10.1177/11782218211015195. PMID: 34017175; PMCID: PMC8114293.))

A lack of community support can make recovery that much harder. If you can’t get the help you need from your loved ones, you might have more success in residential rehab.

Treatment Options for Women With Alcohol Addiction

Gender-specific addiction treatment ((Beckman LJ. Treatment Needs for Women With Alcohol Problems. Alcohol Health Res World. 1994;18(3):206-211. PMID: 31798108; PMCID: PMC6876404.)) accounts for the unique needs of women with addiction. These programs have some priorities you might not find in other rehabs:

  • Emphasizing the importance of social relationships in women’s health
  • Acknowledging how gender roles and societal expectations of women affect addiction
  • Accounting for the different experiences of people with intersectional identities including women of color, women with lower socioeconomic status, pregnant women and mothers
  • Actively preventing the exploitation of women by having higher security protocols
  • Addressing common issues for women in treatment by offering childcare and trauma-informed care when possible

Women-Only Support Groups and Therapy Sessions

By the time they begin treatment for alcohol addiction, many women have a history of trauma at the hands of men. That might make mixed-gender group therapy sessions intimidating. Women-only groups can feel a lot safer.

Women are more likely to actively participate in group sessions without men. And that’s not just because single-gender groups feel safer. Data also shows that men often dominate group conversations. This can make it difficult for women to get the support they need in group settings.

Generally, women in recovery have positive experiences in women-only group therapy ((Barbara S. McCrady et al. Treatment Interventions for Women With Alcohol Use Disorder. Topic Series: Women and Alcohol. Volume 40 Issue 230 July 2020. Alcohol Research: Current Reviews (ARCR). https://arcr.niaaa.nih.gov/volume/40/2/treatment-interventions-women-alcohol-use-disorder)) sessions. And women-only groups are also more likely to be more accommodating to the specific needs of women in treatment. For example, the schedule may account for women’s work and family responsibilities by avoiding busy times like school pick-up.

Trauma-Informed Care for Women in Recovery

Most women seeking treatment for alcohol addiction have experienced trauma. ((Williams R. Downs Ph.D. “Alcohol Problems and Violence Against Women, Final Report.” U.S. Department of Justice. https://www.ojp.gov/pdffiles1/nij/grants/188266.pdf)) Trauma-informed care (TIC) recognizes how trauma affects addiction, recovery, and other parts of your life.

In TIC, your care team pays special attention to your unique triggers, needs, and boundaries. For example, you can call for a break during a therapy session or a physical exam. You may also have access to trauma-specific therapies like eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) or exposure therapy.

Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorder Treatment

More than men, women addicted to alcohol are at risk for co-occurring mental health issues. ((Anthenelli RM. Focus on: Comorbid mental health disorders. Alcohol Res Health. 2010;33(1-2):109-17. PMID: 23579941; PMCID: PMC3887501.)) So alcohol treatment programs for women usually address issues like depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) head-on.

In a rehabs that specializes in co-occurring disorders, your treatment plan will account for your complex recovery goals. Simultaneous treatment is the most effective option ((Yule AM, Kelly JF. Integrating Treatment for Co-Occurring Mental Health Conditions. Alcohol Res. 2019 Jan 1;40(1):arcr.v40.1.07. doi: 10.35946/arcr.v40.1.07. PMID: 31649837; PMCID: PMC6799972.)) for people with alcohol addiction and co-occurring mental health issues. In these programs, you’ll have access to a range of therapy methods:

Addiction Medications for Women

Medication is another treatment option for women recovering from alcohol addiction. ((Jeremiah Fairbanks, et al. “Evidence-Based Pharmacotherapies for Alcohol Use Disorder: Clinical Pearls.” https://www.mcstap.com/Docs/Evidence-Based%20Pharmacotherapies%20for%20Alcohol%20Use%20Disorder-%20Clinical%20Pearls%202020%20Mayo%20Review.pdf
)) The 3 most common medications are disulfiram, naltrexone, and acamprosate. And while they can be effective for both men and women, there are some differences. For example, studies show that naltrexone is more effective for men than women. It also depends on whether you have a co-occurring diagnosis.

Very little research exists about the safety of these medications for pregnant women. ((Kelty E, Terplan M, Greenland M, Preen D. Pharmacotherapies for the Treatment of Alcohol Use Disorders During Pregnancy: Time to Reconsider? Drugs. 2021 May;81(7):739-748. doi: 10.1007/s40265-021-01509-x. Epub 2021 Apr 8. PMID: 33830479.)) Some studies show that disulfiram may cause serious harm to a fetus, while acamprosate and naltrexone appear to be relatively safe. However, the lack of research makes it hard to predict the effects of these drugs.

If you’re interested in medications for alcohol addiction, talk to your doctor about your options. They’ll consider your mental health history, physical health and more to make the safest decision.

Benefits of Gender-Specific Treatment for Women

Studies show that gender-specific treatment is the most effective option ((Barbara S. McCrady et al. Treatment Interventions for Women With Alcohol Use Disorder. Topic Series: Women and Alcohol. Volume 40 Issue 230 July 2020. Alcohol Research: Current Reviews (ARCR). https://arcr.niaaa.nih.gov/volume/40/2/treatment-interventions-women-alcohol-use-disorder
)) for women recovering from alcohol addiction:

  • Women are more likely to engage with gender-specific treatment.
  • Secondary outcomes are also better, including social, mental, and physical health.
  • Women-only treatment has fewer barriers like fear of judgment, concerns about safety, and practical matters like childcare.

Gender-specific programs address the specific challenges women face while recovering from alcohol addiction. And being surrounded by other women on a similar journey means you’ll have a safe and supportive community. You won’t have to justify yourself to anyone, which can be incredibly empowering.

Amy R., a member of Women for Sobriety, explains that attending a women-only support group, “is deeply, personally empowering! ((“Women for Sobriety.” Women For Sobriety, https://womenforsobriety.org/. Accessed 21 Apr. 2023.)) I can bare my soul here, and I am continually supported and uplifted, not judged. This collective of women’s wisdom has become my ‘tribe.’ We are greater together than the sum of our parts.”

Everyone deserves an empowering, validating experience in recovery—including women with alcohol addiction. Search rehabs for women to find the type of treatment you need.

Reviewed by Rajnandini Rathod

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Quitting Drinking: How to Taper Off Alcohol

The long and the short of it is–tapering off alcohol with medical support can help you quit drinking. But could weaning yourself off alcohol help you stay sober for good? Many people have asked the same question. In fact, 30 million people have alcohol use disorder1 in the United States alone. Luckily, this nationwide issue has resources available to help you heal.

In order to fully recover, you can start your healing process by safely ridding yourself of alcohol. Getting professional treatment for alcohol addiction can give you the tools to create, and maintain, a healthy and happy lifestyle.

Can You Quit Alcohol Cold Turkey?

Attempting to stop drinking “cold turkey” is not only dangerous, but could also cause serious implications or be fatal. 

Your body has become used to, and dependent on, certain levels of alcohol. It even changes your brain chemistry. Alcohol depresses your nervous system2, so your body creates more receptors for neurotransmitters, or messengers, to stimulate the nervous system. 

If you were to suddenly stop drinking alcohol, your receptors would become hyperactive because they are no longer being depressed. This is why you should taper off alcohol, or use a prescribed medication like benzodiazepines, during detox3. It’s vital to do this under the supervision of a medical professional to ensure the process is safe and smooth.

What Happens When You Stop Drinking Alcohol

Alcohol withdrawal usually lasts for a few days, but some effects may linger for months. Symptoms are most severe around day 34, and the total process can last for 2 to 10 days. 

There are some common side effects of alcohol detox5 that you should be prepared for:

  • Sweating
  • Tremors
  • Anxiety
  • Insomnia
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Hallucinations
  • Seizures

While this process isn’t enjoyable, there are so many benefits in the new sober life that you’re creating for yourself. You’ll look and feel healthier, have more energy, and save money.

Can Tapering Help You Quit Alcohol?

Tapering off alcohol is a step in the right direction, but there’s more to the story. It’s vital in this process to have professional help, so you can stay safe and as comfortable as possible. There’s also more to learn after ridding yourself of alcohol. You can master the necessary life skills to maintain your sober lifestyle through treatment. 

Alcohol Tapering Timeline

Delamere describes the different stages that you go through while detoxing from alcohol6.

alcohol tapering timeline
2-12 hoursOnset of withdrawal symptoms. This might include tremors, sweating, restlessness, and anxiety.
12-24 hoursWithdrawal continues with alcohol cravings, sleep disturbances, low energy, and feeling depressed. 
12-72 hoursThis is considered the most dangerous period during detox. Symptoms include high heart rate, increased blood pressure, and, in extreme cases, seizures.
48-72 hoursAt some point in this time frame, symptoms will start to be more manageable.
3-7 daysFor most cases, withdrawal symptoms begin to fade.
1 weekSleep patterns start to improve, however this can vary.
1-2 weeksSometime during this period, clinical detox is considered complete.
2 weeksThere may be signs of weight loss due to not consuming alcohol.
3-4 weeksBlood pressure may reduce back to a healthier level.
1 monthSkin may appear healthier.
3 monthsOverall better energy levels and health.
1 yearTapering off alcohol is different for everyone. You may experience that some symptoms persist for longer than is usual.

Does Tapering Help Reduce Withdrawal Symptoms?

Weaning off alcohol in a safe way can help reduce the severity of some withdrawal symptoms. Orlando Recovery Center says that when you taper your alcohol intake over time, you reduce the likelihood of withdrawal symptoms7. This is because this process gives your brain more time to get used to the changes and damage that alcohol originally created.

So You Detoxed… Now What?

Now that you’ve successfully completed the detoxification process, it’s time to build your sobriety toolkit through treatment. Studies show that those who receive some type of formal treatment after detox are more likely to maintain sobriety8. 

Attending a residential rehab or outpatient program gives you coping mechanisms and life skills that can help you for years to come after treatment. You can strengthen your emotional and communication techniques to help you work through any tough situations that may arise in the future. You’ll learn how to prevent relapse and live a fun sober life.

Support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous can help reinforce your goals and boost your spirits. Surrounding yourself with those going through the same process you are, and learning the same life lessons you are, can make a big difference in your healing journey. You’ll talk about different topics regarding addiction and recovery and bond over shared feelings and experiences. 

Another great option is sober living homes. These programs offer more flexibility than residential rehab, while still supporting a healthy lifestyle for people in recovery. Sober living homes provide a comfortable, safe place for you to focus on your healing. And you’ll live and learn with other comrades. 

Life Beyond Addiction

Recovery is a lifelong process, and safely tapering off of alcohol is the first step towards achieving the life you want. It’s important to nurture a healthy relationship with your body so you can have a healthy relationship with your mind. You can start building the foundation for a happy future by going to rehab for alcohol.

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What Is the Success Rate of Alcoholics Anonymous?

Even if you’re just starting recovery, you’ve probably heard of the 12 Steps. This philosophy started in Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.), and has grown into countless other 12-Step groups and rehab programs. For many people, the 12 Steps are central to the process of healing. 

But how effective are the 12 Steps, really? Some people swear by them—but they’re not right for everyone. When you’re planning your recovery, it’s important to choose the best possible approach for you. That could include 12-Step rehab, alternative treatment, or something else entirely. 

What is Alcoholics Annonymous?

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is an international fellowship of men and women who have struggled with alcohol addiction. AA is a non-profit organization that operates on a voluntary basis, and its members support each other in their journey towards sobriety.

The program is based on the twelve steps, which are spiritual principles that guide individuals towards a new way of living. The steps involve admitting powerlessness over alcohol, making a moral inventory of oneself, making amends to those harmed by addiction, and seeking spiritual guidance.

AA meetings are held regularly and provide a supportive environment for members to share their experiences, strength, and hope with each other. Members are encouraged to work with a sponsor, who is someone further along in the program and can provide guidance and support.

AA does not endorse or promote any particular religion or belief system and is open to anyone who wants to stop drinking. The anonymity of members is respected, and the organization is self-supporting through contributions from its members.

Understanding the 12 Steps of AA

Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.) began in the 1930s.1 It was co-founded by Bill Wilson—or Bill W.—and his colleague Dr. Bob. Both men were in recovery from alcohol addiction when they met. Through their friendship, they realized how crucial peer support was for their sobriety. Over time they developed the 12 Steps and began hosting meetings for other people in addiction recovery.

The 12 Steps themselves are specific actions a person can take to heal from addiction. Step 1, for example, reads “We admitted we were powerless over alcohol—that our lives had become unmanageable.” Members of these groups encourage each other to follow these steps toward ongoing sobriety. 

Sponsorship is another core tenet of A.A.2 and other 12-Step groups. Members with some experience in recovery can sponsor newer participants. In these 1:1 relationships, sponsors offer support and fellowship. You’ll cultivate a close relationship with your sponsor, so you can call on them for help at any point in your healing journey. 

Faith-Based Recovery

This approach is faith-based, meaning that participants express their faith in a higher power. Despite its roots in Christianity, the 12-Step philosophy welcomes people of any and all religious backgrounds. In Step 3, for instance, members submit themselves “to the care of God as we understood Him.” If you find comfort in spirituality, the 12 Steps might be a good fit during addiction treatment.

Free Meetings Around the World

12-Step groups like A.A. are best known for their free, peer-led meetings. According to the A.A. website, anyone who “wants to do something about their drinking problem”3 is welcome. During a meeting you might pray, listen to a guest speaker, share your story, or hear from other members. Every meeting is a little different, and there are countless sessions to choose from. These meetings take place all over the world—you can even find them online.

The 12 Steps in Rehab

You can follow the 12 Steps on your own, in a peer-led meeting, or in formal addiction treatment. Many rehab programs are based on these ideals. Patients talk about the Steps in individual therapy and in group sessions. You might even attend peer-led meetings, either in your rehab or in the nearby community. If you start following the 12 Steps in rehab, you can easily join a local group once you complete treatment and return home. 

How Effective Is A.A.?

Data shows that A.A. is as effective as other types of addiction treatment.4 But it’s not right for everyone. For example, one study found that A.A. had a 42% success rate, compared to the 35% success rate of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). But Deborah Becker, a correspondent for NPR, explains that there’s a lot of nuance behind these numbers. “The thing that the researchers point out is that AA is free,” she says. “You don’t have to make an appointment. It’s open to everyone. And I think that is what they’re saying, is that it saves money, it’s very accessible, and it’s showing these long rates of continuous abstinence.”

Other experts agree that the length of treatment plays a role. While A.A. and other approaches have similar success rates in the short term, the 12 Steps have higher long-term success rates.5 But researchers are still gathering data on this issue. We don’t know, for instance, whether other free, peer-led support groups are as effective as A.A. 

Non-12-Step Support Groups

Not everyone draws strength from spirituality, or from fellowship with groups of people. You might prefer 1:1 relationships with care providers or a small circle of loved ones. What’s more, A.A. encourages members to be completely sober.6 If you’re taking a harm-reductionist approach to recovery,  A.A. might not be a good fit. There are many other free, peer-led recovery groups to choose from. 

SMART Recovery

In SMART Recovery, SMART stands for Self-Management and Recovery Training. These groups are based on scientific principles instead of encouraging faith-based recovery. Members work toward self-empowerment through behavioral techniques. 

Like A.A., this is a fellowship of people seeking recovery from addiction. Unlike those in A.A., SMART recovery facilitators have some formal training.7 They’ll offer concrete advice to help you plan your recovery. As member Jan L. writes, “If you are ready to do the work, and that’s a very big IF, SMART Recovery tools begin to work on day one.8 You do not have to come for weeks before you see progress.”

Secular Organizations for Sobriety (S.O.S.)

Secular Organizations for Sobriety, or S.O.S., is a network of groups that take place online and around the world. This non-profit also helps people begin new meetings to support people through addiction recovery. While not every group in S.O.S. shares the same ethos, none of these meetings are religious.

LifeRing Secular Recovery

Members of this organization heal “through the lens of LifeRing’s 3-S philosophy of Sobriety, Secularity, and Self-Help.” They support each other by candidly sharing their experiences and practical tips for recovery. 

LifeRing participants strive to “strengthen the Sober Self” in free meetings,9 which take place both in person and online.

Women for Sobriety (WFS)

Unlike other non-12-Step groups, Women for Sobriety (WFS) offers far more than free, peer-led meetings. WFS is a non-profit organization that also performs addiction research, outreach, and helps establish mutual aid networks. They also hold meetings for women in recovery, both in person and online, as well as online chat rooms. Their services are open to all women, including trans women. 

Moderation Management

Moderation Management (MM) takes a harm-reductionist approach to recovery. In other words, these groups don’t require or even recommend that members be totally sober. As one member of their online community writes, “MM has given me something I’ve been missing10 for a long time: Hope. Hope that I can do this. I can’t imagine a life entirely without alcohol, and now I know I don’t have to. Armed with the tools necessary to feel empowered, I can abstain. And I can moderate. And I can make that decision for myself.”

MM specifically focuses on moderating alcohol use, rather than drug use. These meetings are a good fit for people trying to drink less, who don’t want to cut alcohol out of their lives entirely. 

Alternative Treatment Approaches

While group meetings can be helpful, they’re just one part of an effective recovery plan. Many people also need more formal treatment. That could be as simple as seeing a therapist, or as comprehensive as attending residential rehab. 

If the 12 Steps align with your values, you’ll have many rehab programs to choose from. But just as many rehabs take a different approach to addiction treatment. 

Evidence-Based Treatment

This type of care is founded on robust scientific research. Western medicine includes countless evidence-based treatments for physical and mental health. For example, an evidence-based rehab program might offer:

Most evidence-based care follows predefined treatment protocols. But your provider may still recommend changes based on your exact needs. If you’d like to take this scientific approach to recovery, talk to your doctor or therapist about which specific therapies might be the best fit.

Holistic Treatment

Also called integrated, complementary, or alternative treatment, holistic rehab incorporates a variety of therapies. From acupuncture to naturopathic medicine, these modalities honor each client’s mind, body and spirit. 

Holistic therapies come from global traditions of healing. Some of them, like meditation, are also evidence-based treatments for addiction.11 Others are available in rehab while experts continue to research them. These approaches aren’t offered as a substitute for evidence-based care. But in combination with other treatments, they can be crucial parts of your recovery process. 

Is 12-Step Treatment Right for You?

The 12 Steps work well for people who draw strength from their faith and community. If these values fit well with yours, A.A. or a similar group might be the right way to approach healing. 

If this philosophy is central to your process, you can begin recovery in a 12-Step rehab program.

Frequently Asked Questions About A.A. Success Rates

What is the success rate of Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.)?

The success rate of A.A. is comparable to other types of addiction treatment. One study found that A.A. had a 42% success rate, compared to the 35% success rate of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). However, the length of treatment plays a role, and the 12 Steps have higher long-term success rates. It is important to note that A.A. is free and open to everyone, and shows long rates of continuous abstinence.

How effective is A.A. in addiction recovery?

A.A. is as effective as other types of addiction treatment. However, it’s not the right approach for everyone. It’s important to choose the best possible approach for you, which could include 12-Step rehab, alternative treatment, or something else entirely.

Are there any non-12-Step support groups for addiction recovery?

Yes, there are many non-12-Step support groups for addiction recovery. These include SMART Recovery, which is based on scientific principles instead of faith-based recovery, and Secular Organizations for Sobriety (S.O.S.), a non-profit organization that helps people begin new meetings online and around the world.

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Women for Sobriety: Healing with Your Sisters

Women face a different set of challenges than men during addiction recovery. Surrounding yourself with like-minded women can help you feel more supported and open during your recovery journey. 

Women for Sobriety (WFS) does just that. They are a women’s only peer-support program designed for overcoming substance use disorders. Like WFS, attending a women’s only rehab can meet you where you’re at and guide you on the path to sobriety. 

What Is Women for Sobriety? 

In the past 25 years, research has shown that there are significant gender differences in alcohol and drug recovery1. Because of this, treatment and professionals need to adapt to uniquely serving both men and women.

This is where Women for Sobriety (WFS)2 comes in. Founder Jean Kirkpatrick, a sociologist, had been an alcoholic for many years. She tried Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) but felt that something was missing. That’s when she found out that the success rates of recovery were higher for men than women. After her own journey of achieving, and maintaining, sobriety, she kick started WFS in 1975.

Is Women for Sobriety Affiliated with a Religion?

WFS runs on the core belief that “[women] have the power of changing [their] way of thinking. [They] live in the atmosphere created by [their] mind and [their] thoughts.” The organization helps you realize that you have the power to change, and that choosing positivity will create a positive reality. WFS does not have any religious affiliations; however, it can be used alongside other religious recovery support groups for women. 

Their New Life program3 promotes lasting change through:

  • Positive reinforcement (approval and encouragement)
  • Cognitive strategies (positive thinking)
  • Letting the body help (relaxation techniques, meditation, nutrition, and physical exercise)
  • Dynamic group involvement

WFS Affirmations

WFS has 13 empowering statements that their members follow, similar to AA’s 12 Steps. These affirmations help guide your daily life in a positive, motivated direction. WFS breaks down these 13 statements into their 6 Levels of Recovery. As you move through each level and continue on your journey with WFS, you’ll focus on growing in all different areas of your life. 

Level 1: Acceptance of having a substance use disorder, one that requires the cessation of substance use. (Acceptance statement 1) You’ll learn to come to terms with your addiction, and realize that sobriety is necessary. You’ll learn more about substance use disorders and how to care for your mind and body.

Level 2: Discarding negative thoughts, putting guilt behind, and practicing new ways of viewing and solving problems. (Acceptance statements 2, 4, and 9) You’ll examine what factors in your life are problem areas. You’ll pick out negative habits and thought patterns and actively work on shifting those to healthy ones. You’ll recognize that you don’t need to let your problems overwhelm you and see them as growing opportunities. 

By this stage, you’ll have 1.) a regular exercise routine and 2.) way of relaxation and meditation.

Level 3: Creating and practicing a new self-image. (Acceptance statements 5 and 12) This is the phase where you tap into your power. You’ll take responsibility for your feelings and behaviors, and you’ll let go of people, situations, and things outside of your control. 

You’ll be picky about what energy you allow into your life, so that you can create a positive environment. You’ll learn that one mistake does not ruin all the hard work you’ve done. You’ll create the self-image of a powerful, confident woman who owns her life.

Level 4: Using new attitudes to enforce new behavior patterns. (Acceptance statements 3, 6, and 11) During this level, you’ll learn to choose happiness every single day. You’ll adopt a positive attitude that you can share with your loved ones. And every day, you’ll seek out magic in the ordinary. 

Level 5: Improving relationships as a result of our new feelings about self. (Acceptance Statements 7 and 10) You’ll learn to be vulnerable with others and the world around you. You’ll work on developing meaningful, reciprocal relationships. This step comes later in the healing process because first, you must mend the relationship you have with yourself. 

Level 6: Recognizing life’s priorities: emotional and spiritual growth, self-responsibility. (Acceptance statements 8 and 13) You’ll continue to work on the lifelong relationship that you have with yourself through emotional and spiritual growth. You’ll take ownership of your actions and choose a happy and healthy lifestyle.

Women for Sobriety Meetings

To make the WFS program effective for you, you must practice it consciously each day. This can be easy with the help of other supportive sisters. There are different meetings that you can choose from to fit your schedule and needs. WFS embraces all expressions of female identity and welcomes those in the LGBTQ+ community.

In-person support groups

“Face-to-face” groups are available in the United States and Canada. These meetings are just for women who are recovering from drug and alcohol addiction. Meetings occur once per week and usually last 60-90 minutes. Ideally, only 6-10 women attend per group.

During in-person meetings, you’ll face each other in a circle in an open discussion format. At the beginning of the meeting, the 13 Acceptance Statements and the mission statement are read out loud. Each woman introduces herself by saying, “my name is ____ and I am a competent woman.” You’ll then share a positive action or feeling that relates to one of the 13 affirmations. You’ll go over different topics, share stories, and learn together throughout those 60-90 minutes. 

At the end of the meeting, you’ll stand with joined hands and say the WFS Motto: “We are capable and competent, caring and compassionate, always willing to help another, bonded together in overcoming our addictions.” 

If this resonates with you, you can find a face-to-face group near you.

Online meetings

WFS Online is an open forum for women overcoming their addiction. This is a 24/7 message board where women can share and seek support for their recovery. There are online chat meetings that happen 1-2 times daily. And these meetings are free.

If this style of online support resonates with your recovery journey, join the online forum today.

Healing Through Love

Jean Kirkpatrick set out on a mission to help women all across the country recover differently than what society has told them they should do. The Women for Sobriety program has helped thousands of women find their place in the recovery community. Healing with other women will not only help you on your lifetime sobriety journey, but you’ll also form incredible relationships along the way. Discover how women’s only treatment can help you feel at home.

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Gender Differences in Substance Abuse

People of every gender experience addiction. But most of the available data focuses on men. Fortunately, scientists are starting to expand their research to include other genders. And a growing body of work shows gender differences in substance abuse and addiction.

Rehab can be very effective when the treatment plan puts you first. Gender-specific treatment programs make you the main priority while acknowledging the impact gender has on recovery.

Differences in Addiction Between Women and Men

Being male or female can affect the biological, psychological, and social aspects of addiction. For example, men have higher rates of alcohol and illicit drug use.1 However, both men and women are equally vulnerable to developing one of these conditions. 

As we learn more about gender and addiction, it’s important to note the gaps in scientific research. We need more information about people of every gender—not just cis men and cis women. The data we have points to stark differences between just these 2 groups of people. 

Understanding the impact of your gender on addiction can also help you approach recovery. With that in mind, some rehabs focus on gender differences in substance use disorders. These programs often treat people of different genders separately. 

Impacts of Gender on Substance Abuse

Drug and alcohol addiction goes beyond your emotional experience. It also reflects your relationships, social standing, and family dynamics. Many of these issues relate to gender. Anything from hormones to peer pressure can play a role in the onset and treatment of addiction.

For example, we now know that women’s biological characteristics— like fertility and menopause—can influence drug use. Addiction’s physical effects2 are often more profound in women, and they may develop addiction more quickly.

Because social pressures affect addiction, women and men often have different reasons for drug use. Many women report using drugs to control their weight, fight the exhaustion of providing childcare, or cope with domestic violence. 

Today’s gender roles aren’t as rigid as they once were, but these pressures still exist for many people. Western culture, for instance, pushes men to be providers and women to be caretakers. Understanding how gender roles affect your specific type of addiction can help you plan for recovery.

Alcohol

Men typically have higher rates of alcohol use.3 This might be because of peer pressure, or because they face a severe lack of emotional support. To work through these issues, you might consider a rehab for men. These programs help you connect with people who share both your gender and your experience of addiction. 

While men may be more vulnerable to alcohol use, its social impact on women is still severe. Data shows that alcohol addiction increases women’s risk of intimate partner violence.4 If you’re healing from this type of trauma, it might be easier to talk about your experience among people of your own gender.

Some rehabs for women offer trauma-informed care. These specialized programs can help you work through triggers while you recover from addiction and mental health issues. You can also connect with other women who have survived similar events. Building relationships with them can be empowering and validating.

Stimulants

Some effects of stimulant addiction are the same for both men and women. These drugs make it hard for anyone to concentrate and learn new things. Even short-term use can interfere with your academic achievement. But in some biological ways, men and women experience this addiction very differently.

Estrogen makes women more physically sensitive to stimulants. As a result, these drugs can put more stress on a woman’s blood vessels and heart. However, men are at a greater risk for resulting neurological issues. 

There are also differences between men’s and women’s social reasons for stimulant use. Many women report using stimulants to boost their energy levels so they can keep up with work and family commitments. Addressing those problems may help women recover. Men’s reasons for stimulant use5 are rarely so specific. As a result, it can be hard for men to define the root cause of their addiction.

Opioids

Opioids function as painkillers, and data shows that male and female bodies experience pain differently. This may explain some of the differences in how men and women develop opioid addiction.

Studies show women are more sensitive to pain than men, and more likely to have chronic pain. Perhaps as a result, doctors prescribe more opioid medications for women6 than men. This makes it easier for women to access these drugs. Women report using opioids to cope with both physical pain and emotional issues like anxiety. This behavior can quickly lead to addiction.

When it comes to illicit drugs, like heroin, men may be at a higher risk of addiction and overdose. Women who use these drugs tend to use smaller amounts for shorter periods of time. However, women are more likely to use heroin because of their partners.

In rehab for opioid addiction, men and women may have different recovery goals. For example, women might need to find new ways to manage chronic pain. And men who have been using drugs for a longer time may need to make lasting changes to their support networks.

Marijuana

Marijuana is a common way to self-medicate co-occurring disorders, like depression or anxiety. But like most substances, it comes with a risk of addiction. 

Men and women who use cannabis have similar rates of co-occurring disorders. However, men are more vulnerable to marijuana addiction than women. Men also report more severe symptoms of cannabis addiction and withdrawal.7 

On the other hand, data suggests that marijuana has a greater impact on women’s brains.8 It can even change the way teen girls’ brains develop—more than it does for boys of the same age. Both gender-specific and age-specific rehab programs can address the complexities of this addiction.

Gender Differences in Substance Abuse Treatment

Men and women tend to start addiction recovery for different reasons. For example, more men attend treatment than women.9 However, men might have a harder time admitting they need help. That can make early recovery an especially vulnerable time. Providers that understand the social roles associated with masculinity10 can support men as they begin treatment. 

Women typically face more barriers to addiction treatment11 than men. As a result, they may have more severe symptoms by the time they enter rehab. Women may benefit from seeking more specialized care, whether or not they attend a women-only program. 

Recovery can be more straightforward in a single-gender treatment environment. This is especially true for clients with a history of trauma. For example, in a group session, you can trust that all your peers share a certain amount of context. That saves time and energy for everyone. Instead of explaining your identity, you can immediately dig into your emotional experience. 

Finding Gender-Specific Treatment Programs

Recognizing the impact of gender on your addiction can help you choose a rehab that feels right for you. Gender-specific programs acknowledge the differences in addiction for men and women—and sometimes, for people of other genders. As a result, they can offer treatment that caters to your specific needs. These programs aren’t right for everyone, and your gender doesn’t have to define you. But for some people, it can have a huge impact on recovery. 

Connect with a gender-specific rehab that meets your unique needs for recovery. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Gender and Addiction Recovery

How do gender roles affect addiction?

Social pressures related to gender roles can affect addiction. For example, many women report using drugs to cope with domestic violence or childcare exhaustion. Men may use drugs as a way to cope with a lack of emotional support.

How can rehab programs address gender differences in addiction?

Gender-specific treatment programs can help people feel better understood and prioritize their unique needs. For example, men’s rehab programs can help male clients connect with others who share their experience of addiction, while trauma-informed care can help women work through triggers.

Why are women more vulnerable to opioid addiction?

Women are more sensitive to pain than men and more likely to have chronic pain, leading doctors to prescribe more opioid medication for women than men. Women report using opioids to cope with both physical pain and emotional issues like anxiety.