Why Are Women in America More Susceptible to Opioid Addiction?
The rate of opioid addiction among American women continues to grow, and many are wondering what is pushing more and more women into problematic opioid dependence.
Though there is no conclusive evidence that would indicate women are inherently more likely to become addicted to opioids by virtue of their femininity, there do appear to be a few common biological and circumstantial factors that may make women more likely to struggle with opioid addiction. Some studies suggest that women are increasingly more likely to become addicted to opioid medications for a number of reasons, including:
- Women have a greater ease in developing a dependence on opioid medications within a shorter period of time and while taking smaller doses.
- Women tend to experience more intense emotional and physical side effects when using opioids.
- Women tend to be more sensitive to pain, making them more likely to seek treatment for chronic pain, which increases the likelihood that a doctor would prescribe strong painkillers like Vicodin, OxyContin, Percocet, etc.
- Women are more likely to experience emotional trauma and sexual violence, making them more likely to seek relief.
- Women are often prescribed opioid pain relievers after birth, especially after C-sections.
- Women are less likely to seek intervention or rehabilitation for drug addiction due to their responsibility as primary caregivers for their children and family members.
At Our Prescott Drug Rehab Center, We Serve Women Struggling with Opioid Use
At Decision Point Center, we take you as you are.
Sadly, shame keeps many women from getting the help they need. However, when you come to our drug rehab facility in Prescott, we will provide you with the supportive, understanding care you need in order to break free from opioid addiction. Our residential treatments and therapy programs are intended to help you overcome opioid dependence so that you can get back to your family, your job, and doing other things you love as soon as possible without the weight of addiction on your shoulders.
We are here to help you be the best you can be. Call (844) 292-5010 today to learn more about how we may be able to help.