The numbers of women seeking rehab to overcome dependency is increasing. In order to meet this need, centers are developing programs that specifically treat women. Although people from both genders and all socioeconomic levels suffer from addiction, the underlying issues which cause the addiction can be different depending upon those very same factors.
Rehabilitation Programs for Women
Over 1 million women in the United States alone are dealing with some form of addiction. In many cases, the addiction is just a symptom of an underlying problem. According to studies, women with addiction problems may also have other issues including mental illness, a history of physical or sexual abuse, or experience in toxic relationships. In order for treatment to be effective, it is important for rehab programs to address the underlying issues as well as the addiction.
Women May Need Aftercare Programs to Maintain Sobriety
After rehab is over, women are more likely to relapse unless they have a support system available. For this reason, women need aftercare services in place before being discharged.
Women May Need Extra Support to Enter Rehab Programs
A rehab program should also address family issues and include the family in the healing process as much as possible. Sometimes, family responsibilities can hinder a woman’s ability to go to rehab in the first place. For example, single mothers with a lack of family support may simply not be able to attend a program because there is no one to take care of their children in their absence. In order to address these problems, some centers offer residential daycare options. Mothers can take their children to the daycare while they are getting the help that they need.
Dual Diagnosis Programs
Because many women are dealing with complex problems, some facilities have dual diagnoses programs to address this. When women enter a dual diagnosis program, they can get help for mental health issues as well as rehab.
Treatment Programs
Most treatment programs use a three pronged approach to treating women in rehab. This includes detoxification, counseling, and after care.
Detoxification
During the detoxification part of the program, a woman will gradually learn to adjust to life without using either drugs or alcohol to manage her stress and emotional pain. In some cases, a woman may need medical assistance in order to fully adjust to detoxification. Sometimes, a woman may experience serious withdrawal symptoms during this process.
Counseling
Once a woman has finished the detoxification part of the program, she is ready to start counseling. During this part of the program, a woman will begin to understand why she is drawn towards drugs and alcohol. She can then take steps to deal with the underlying issues. She can also develop a plan for dealing with these issues once she has left the rehab facility.
Aftercare
After care begins once a woman has left the rehab facility. Aftercare may include attending a 12- step program, as well as attending regular counseling sessions with a trained therapist.
Rehab programs for women are essential in order to build strong families and strong communities. Once a woman is healthy, she can work on raising healthy children and she can become a productive citizen in her community.
