BARRIERS WOMEN FACE

BARRIERS WOMEN FACE WHEN FINDING RECOVERY

BY: LB BURKHALTER

Recovering from addiction is a challenging journey, and it can be especially difficult for women. Women face unique challenges when seeking long-term recovery, including societal stigma, lack of access to treatment, and a higher risk of relapse. However, by entering sober living after treatment, women can overcome these barriers and successfully maintain their sobriety.

One of the main barriers that women face when seeking long-term recovery is societal stigma. There is still a widespread belief that addiction is a moral failing rather than a disease, and women who struggle with addiction are often judged harshly by society. This stigma can prevent women from seeking help for their addiction, and it can also make it difficult for them to maintain their sobriety once they leave treatment.

Another barrier that women face when seeking long-term recovery is a lack of access to treatment. Women may have difficulty finding treatment programs that cater specifically to their needs, such as programs that address issues like trauma, domestic violence, or childcare. Additionally, women may have limited access to healthcare due to financial or logistical barriers.

Once women complete their initial treatment, they may also face a higher risk of relapse than men. This is partly due to the fact that women tend to have more complex and interconnected reasons for their addiction, including mental health issues, trauma, and social pressures. Women may also be more likely to struggle with co-occurring disorders like depression or anxiety.

To overcome these barriers and maintain long-term recovery, it is important for women to enter sober living after treatment. Sober living facilities provide a safe and supportive environment where women can continue to work on their recovery while transitioning back into their daily lives. In sober living, women can connect with peers who are also in recovery and receive support from trained staff members.

In addition, sober living facilities often offer specialized programming that addresses the unique needs of women in recovery. For example, they may offer counseling and therapy that addresses issues like trauma and domestic violence, or they may provide resources for childcare and parenting.

Entering sober living after treatment can also help women maintain accountability and structure in their lives. Sober living facilities typically have rules and guidelines that residents must follow, such as attending regular meetings and staying sober. By adhering to these rules, women can develop healthy habits and routines that support their sobriety.

In conclusion, women face significant barriers when seeking long-term recovery from addiction. However, by entering sober living after treatment, women can overcome these barriers and successfully maintain their sobriety. Sober living provides a safe and supportive environment where women can address the unique challenges they face in their recovery journey, connect with peers, and develop healthy habits that support their sobriety.

By: LB Burkhalter, Founder and Executive Director of Recovered Humans