SAMHSA celebrates recovery every September. You learn how to interact with other struggling individuals by gathering with others who have similar stories by recovering together—and you quickly realize you’re not alone. You are more open to sharing your experiences and feelings with others, which boosts your confidence and self-esteem while reducing the stress and guilt that often accompany addiction and recovery.
Patients in group therapy discuss their troubles and experiences with others who are dealing with similar problems, and it is particularly beneficial for women who need a secure place for recovering together in which to open up and explore their emotions…all at the same time.
The Advantages of Gender-Specific Treatment for Women
We’re learning more and more about the importance of women healing together because they’re more likely to be vulnerable and honest in an environment where they’re accepted and understood—both of which are essential ingredients for long-term recovery success.
Women have demonstrated that having a network of women who they support and who support them in return increases their willingness to commit to their recovery—a place where they can form a community of friends to support and love them along the way can be an invaluable resource.
Because of rewarding forces such as affiliation, confrontation, support, gratification, and identification, they are more likely to remain abstinent and committed to recovery when they receive treatment in groups. Because the greater the amount, quality, and duration of treatment, the better the client’s prognosis, group therapy’s ability to bind patients to treatment is valuable. (ncbi.com)
A woman’s biology plays a big role in how diseases manifest so a female-only healing environment can make a big difference in a woman’s recovery. Women get together to establish safe places where they may share their tales without fear of being judged. Most women with a drug abuse problem also have trauma, multiple addictions, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders as co-occurring illnesses.
Co-occurring illnesses often appear when women are recovering together (sharing emotions and experiences), and they find peace in knowing they aren’t alone. It’s powerful, reassuring, and might save a life. Consider the barriers women encounter in seeking treatment, such as the stigma associated with drug usage, the unavailability of services for pregnant women, and the fear of losing custody of their children.
An all-female treatment clinic recognizes these particular requirements and takes into account the childcare, parenting, and body image concerns that many women face in addition to their addiction while recovering together.
The Power Women in Group Therapy for Healing and Happiness
The benefits of coming together as a group, not as individuals, but as a group dedicated to the same objective, may be spectacular. You discover a common ground together, which gives you the freedom to communicate and open up in ways you may not have been comfortable doing before.
Addiction is a lonely place, and group therapy is meant to help women overcome the isolation that comes with drug misuse by teaching them how to build meaningful connections, find community support, and hold each other responsible as they go through recovery together. Let’s have a look at some of the advantages of women in recovery working together in the following paragraphs:
Expectations are Removed
You must be vulnerable to heal from addiction. In the company of other women, many women find it easier to be vulnerable and open up about their problems. There’s no need to put up a front to hide your sentiments when you’re with other ladies.
Encourages Open and Honest Debate
A candid conversation about life’s highs and lows will help women realize they aren’t alone. Gender-specific addiction treatment alleviates shame and judgment, allowing for greater understanding and compassion. Many people will feel uncomfortable talking about traumatic and painful life experiences in a mixed group. It’s easier to relax when you’re with people who share your interests. In addiction recovery, it’s critical to feel safe and secure because true healing can only occur if you’re willing to be vulnerable and share your stories.
Fewer Distractions
Addiction treatment’s main benefit is that it allows people to concentrate solely on getting better. There are distractions, such as romantic ones, when other genders are around. A romantic relationship can be a welcome distraction from what you’re going through, but it can also be a distraction that diverts your attention away from the real reason you’re there. When women are with other women, the pressure to keep up appearances and impress the opposite sex is reduced. Many people prefer gender-specific addiction treatment because it removes distractions and allows them to focus solely on recovery.
Gender-Specific Issues are Prioritized
Work, family, self-esteem, and relationships all put pressure on men and women, but the pressures are different for men and women. Gender-specific addiction treatment surrounds clients with others who understand what it’s like to struggle with addiction as a woman and cultural and societal pressures. Instead of splitting their attention, clients can focus on a woman’s experience. Pregnancy, motherhood battles, and past trauma, for example, may be discussed in women’s specific treatment.
Development of a Secure Environment
Treatment won’t be as effective if the environment isn’t safe. If a man has harmed a woman, she will be hesitant to share her experiences in groups with men. Because women are typically the caretakers of the family and home, mothers who have an addiction will benefit from sharing expenses with other mothers. Being away from children can be difficult, but with the help of others in similar situations, women can share these experiences while recovering together.
Aid in the Formation of Relationships
Women may form bonds through shared experiences when they get gender-specific care. There’s also the opportunity to meet new people and make new friends. The support of a strong peer network is essential for maintaining sobriety and avoiding relapse following treatment. Beyond standard group therapy, gender-specific treatment might include activities that help develop vital links between members of a certain gender.
To learn more about faith-based addiction treatment options available in Southern California, call Covenant Hills Treatment at 844-268-8412.
