Addiction in men comes with a unique set of factors that can affect them healing and getting better. These factors can affect their decision to get help, as well as their continued struggles with addiction.
The stigma surrounding addiction and getting professional care can affect men differently than it can women. However, this much-needed beneficial care can make a difference in the lives of men who are struggling with substances.
How Addiction Impacts Men: Risk Factors and Causes
Much of the early research done on addiction has occurred with males who are struggling. This has helped to identify clear patterns when it comes to addiction in men versus women. Research has shown that men are more likely to develop addictions than women, and that men are more likely to experience the social and economical impacts that addiction can have.
According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) men are more likely to binge drink than women with 21% of men reporting binge drinking compared to 13% of women polled. Research also shows that men are more likely to abuse illicit drugs such as heroin and cocaine than women are.
Are Men More Prone to Certain Drugs?
The short answer to whether or not men are more prone to using certain drugs than women are is yes. There are a number of factors that can play a role in the susceptibility of illicit drug use in men. However it has been shown through research that men are more likely to turn to using certain drugs illicitly to cope with these factors.
Additionally, continued use of these drugs can result in addiction and potentially death. Drugs like cocaine, methamphetamine, and hallucinogens are common substances used by men. Addiction professionals can help these men to overcome their struggles and begin living a healthy and productive lifestyle.
Risk Factors: Trauma and Male Addiction
Trauma can play a role in anyone developing an addiction, and this is particularly true with men. This is a main contributing factor for addiction in men. This is partially due to the stigma surrounding men getting mental health help. It is a common misconception that men need to remain strong, and fight their battles alone or they are perceived as having weaknesses.
This is something within society, as well as the men themselves. Trauma is not a weakness, it is something that can affect anyone regardless of age, race, or gender. It is also something that can require professional help to overcome. Seeking help is crucial to avoiding addiction in men when it comes to coping with trauma.
Risk Factors: Social Expectations and Lack of Emotional Support
Other contributing factors of addiction in men are social expectations and lack of support. It is extremely common for men to go out with friends or coworkers after a long and stressful day at work. They often head to dinner or a bar and have a few drinks.
Sometimes this can lead to alcohol addiction. There is also the pressure men face on a daily basis to be the provider, supporter, and foundation in their family unit. Many don’t feel safe sharing heir emotions without judgment. Without the right emotional support to cope with feelings of inadequacy when not meeting the standards they place on themselves, it contributes to using substances as a means of coping.
Underlying Co-Occurring Disorders and Addiction in Men
Dual diagnosis is a condition that many men face daily. It is a condition characterized by prevalent co-occurring addiction and mental health concerns. This means that an individual is struggling with drug and/or alcohol addiction, while simultaneously struggling with mental health conditions like depression and anxiety.
Addiction in men can be a result of trying to self-medicate these underlying mental health concerns. Another common misconception in society is that alcohol and drugs seemingly take away the symptoms of depression and anxiety. This leads to continued use and abuse of these substances, resulting in addiction. The reality is, an addiction will only further complicate these conditions.
Therapy and Male Recovery Programs
Recovery programs geared toward men provide a safe and healing environment for men to get the necessary help to begin healing. Residential treatment for addiction in men can be a beneficial starting point for them to learn necessary life and coping skills in order to combat and overcome addiction to drugs and alcohol.
It can aid in the beginning stages of learning skills. They skills can carry men through the lifelong battle with addiction to these substances. Participating in therapies that can help with implementing positive coping skills and building meaningful bonds is something that can be beneficial in the long run. Addiction treatment for men is available, and it can be the best gift that someone can give themselves.
Help for Overcoming Addiction in Males
The number of men struggling with addiction to drugs and alcohol is staggering. The effects addiction can have on these men’s lives can be devastating and often result in severe impacts to their quality of life.
Addiction recovery is possible. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, Spirit Mountain can help. We offer a comprehensive program geared toward men seeking recovery from addiction. Our professional staff can help as you begin a journey of recovery and growth.
Call us today and begin the healing process.
