Drugs can affect men and women in very different ways. The genders also have very different experiences when it comes to their drug use. Men, for example, are more likely to use all types of illicit drugs, and therefore have much higher rates of illicit drug use. Women, however, statistically progress from drug use to drug addiction much faster than men – and usually by using smaller amounts.
Women are also more likely to battle mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. As a result, females misuse prescription opioids to numb or self-medicate emotional pain more often than men. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse,
“Research has shown that women often use drugs differently, respond to drugs differently, and can have unique obstacles to effective treatment.”
For women battling addiction, it is extremely important to find an inpatient rehab program that is gender-specific. One that specializes in women’s substance use disorders and that fully understands the depths of women’s unique experiences relating to drug use – trauma, physical or sexual abuse, hurtful relationships, emotional distress, anxiety disorders, and other factors that often co-exist. If your loved one is battling addiction, know that she deserves an inpatient treatment program that can be fully tailored to meet her individual needs.
Note that we said inpatient treatment here. Inpatient rehab, also known as residential treatment, means that women live at the facility where they are receiving help. Women live on a drug-free campus, surrounded by other women (of similar age) in recovery, nearby or in the same place that they also receive therapy and care. However, many inpatient treatment centers go much beyond the basics. A great women’s inpatient rehab will integrate the clinical aspect of drug treatment with other core elements of a successful recovery, such as emotional, social, and mental health.
There is great value to be found in a women’s inpatient rehab program. In fact, inpatient settings are recommended by most addiction professionals, and are associated with higher success rates overall. As a residential treatment center for women, Turnbridge knows this first-hand. Below, we outline some of the many benefits of choosing a women’s-only, inpatient drug treatment facility.
The Benefits of Women’s Inpatient Treatment
- Inpatient rehab centers offer women a safe, drug-free space. These are not hospital settings, but rather, protected, peaceful, positive environments where women can focus on their healing and wellness. They provide a place for women to get away from outside pressures, temptations, and relapse triggers (difficult memories, substance-using friends, toxic relationships, and more).
- In inpatient rehab, women can build healthy, supportive relationships. Women are constantly surrounded by other women in these settings – women of the same age group, same gender, and with very similar experiences to share. Whether through group therapy sessions, 12-step meetings, or recreational activities, women are given the chance to bond and build relationships with one another, without the blanket of drugs and alcohol.
- Inpatient treatment centers encourage healthy and holistic living. An inpatient rehab program teaches women how to live sober, not simply get sober. At Turnbridge, for example, we emphasize the importance of healthy, productive, positive living in all aspects of our residences. Delicious, nutritious meals are prepared for women during their stay, but they are also taught how to shop and cook healthy meals themselves. Young women in our inpatient program also have access to fitness centers, yoga studios, in-house gyms, art rooms, nearby beaches and more – therapeutic experiences and activities that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
- There is a focus on dual diagnosis in many inpatient settings. As noted above, women are more likely to face a co-occurring disorder – whether an eating or anxiety disorder, depression or trauma – simultaneously with their drug use. Co-occurring disorders in women require a unique, specialized, and integrated approach to treatment and a safe secure, environment to heal. If your loved one is battling a mental health condition, she will require an inpatient dual diagnosis treatment setting.
- There is 24/7 care and support, whenever she needs it most. Perhaps most obviously and most valuable, inpatient rehab environments offer young women constant, round-the-clock care and support. Recovery is not easy – there are many obstacles and uncertainties that can arise along the way. In an inpatient setting, women always have consistent access to support staff members, clinicians, and counselors, even if it’s simply to chat.
The women’s residences and clinical facilities at Turnbridge located in and around the historical, charming community of New Haven, Connecticut. Tucked away in tranquility, yet still close to the vibrant city, this location plays a major role in our women’s recovery programs. Young women have the benefit of living in a gracious, quiet, serene environment that is protected by security systems. Here, they can focus on their healing with peace of mind. As women gain more independence through each phase of therapy, though, they are encouraged to venture into town to attend their 12-meetings, volunteer, and take on work or academic classes. This enables residents to regain accountability, a core piece of sober living. The residences at Turnbridge are also exquisite and well-kept, representing the beauty, respect, and care we see in each of our clients as they work through the recovery process.
Turnbridge’s women’s inpatient rehab combines clinical care with productive sober living, a supportive recovery community, and a safe, healing environment. Find out more about the benefits of attending our drug rehab program for women by visiting www.turnbridge.com/womens today. Or, call 877-581-1793 to learn more.