 Today, over five million women in the U.S. are addicted to alcohol and other drugs. And recent studies indicate more American women are seeking treatment for addiction. Our own experience bears that out: from 1998 to 2005, Hazelden experienced a four-fold increase in admission inquiries-from 100 calls a month to 400 calls-for women suffering from alcoholism and other drug addiction.
Addiction affects women differently than men, both physically and mentally. Differences in body size, hormones, and metabolism cause women to become inebriated faster, and become addicted more quickly, and develop alcohol-abuse related diseases sooner. Addiction in women is often complicated by depression, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder resulting from abuse, rape, domestic violence and other violent crimes. Addiction can also increase the likelihood of physical illnesses such as breast cancer and osteoporosis. On average, a female alcoholic reduces her life span by 15 years as a result of drinking and/or drug abuse. Most tragic of all is the fact that it doesn't have to be this way. Sheila Hermes, a clinical supervisor for women at Hazelden, says the center helps fight stigma. "When people see and hear about this wonderful facility, it demonstrates to the public that treatment is acceptable and that it doesn't occur in a rigid, intimidating atmosphere," she explains. "It shows that treatment is delivered in a community of respect and dignity, with a focus on the strength and resiliency of women. It also continues Hazelden's long-standing belief that this is a bad disease that affects good people." |
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