Substance Use Disorder in Women: History, Use, and Treatment

Substance use disorder is a biopsychosocial disease that impacts women differently than men. There are varying treatment approaches for men and women that are vital for effective treatment. Stigma continues to be a barrier for women accessing treatment and treatment providers offering care. Historically, women in the United States have had less access to treatment, and they still do today. Furthermore, socioeconomic factors may significantly affect a woman’s ability to achieve long-term sobriety.

This workshop will shed light on common emotional and physical differences experienced by women before, during, and after treatment as compared to their male counterparts. We will also discuss common treatment issues and considerations for clinicians, peers, law enforcement, family members, and more.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

• Describe women’s treatment history and current aspects of woman-centered treatment
• Identify common emotional and physical experiences of women with SUD
• Discuss the ways women with substance use disorder are stigmatized
• Identify trauma-informed care tactics to increase the quality of care and client access
• Learn seven evidence-based practices that can be used in women’s treatment settings