Each year on July 23rd, we celebrate National Women Touched by Addiction Day, a day dedicated to recognizing and uplifting women who have been affected by substance abuse—either personally or through their loved ones. This occasion aims to diminish stigma, raise public awareness, and acknowledge the specific challenges women face regarding substance use disorders (SUD).
Recognizing Women’s Unique Challenges
While substance use disorders can affect anyone, women often experience unique hurdles in accessing treatment and support. Factors such as stigma, fears regarding custody of children, economic difficulties, and past traumas are some of the obstacles they may face. Women’s paths to dealing with substance use disorders can differ significantly from men’s due to a blend of biological, social, and psychological influences:
Rapid Progression: Women often develop substance use disorders more quickly, even with lower doses and shorter timeframes. This phenomenon is linked to differences in hormones, metabolism, and brain chemistry.
Impact of Pregnancy: The unique psychological and physiological changes during pregnancy can exacerbate the symptoms of substance use disorders.
Mental Health & Trauma: Women are twice as likely to experience depression, anxiety, PTSD, or panic disorders—all of which are closely tied to substance use disorders. Traumatic experiences also play a crucial role in increasing the likelihood of both mental health issues and substance misuse.
Recovery Challenges: Although women generally have lower rates of substance use, they face greater risks of cravings and difficulties in sustaining their recovery journeys.
Social Barriers: Many women struggle to find support for their recovery due to caregiving responsibilities that limit their availability to seek treatment. Furthermore, societal stigma and fears of judgment can hinder their access to much-needed help.
The Significance of This Day—and How to Participate
In 2022, about 21.1 million women in the U.S. (14.7%) were living with substance use disorders. Additionally, 69.7% of those caring for individuals with SUD are women, highlighting the often overlooked effects of substance use on women universally. By raising awareness and sharing available resources, we can collectively work to dispel the stigma surrounding substance use and mental health issues, ultimately fostering healing and helping individuals rebuild their lives.
Support is Accessible
At Gateway Foundation, we are committed to the belief that recovery is achievable for everyone. If you or someone you care about is struggling with substance use or mental health issues, please reach out to us at 877-505-HOPE.