Rehabilitation for Women
Women have different perspectives and needs when it comes to treatment for addictions, eating disorders, and other mental and behavioral health issues. Research shows that women are more likely than men to recognize the signs of a mental health problem and seek treatment.
The type of treatment that works best for one woman may differ from another. While some find healing in treatment with other women, others may feel most comfortable in a co-ed program. Ultimately, choosing a treatment program is an intensely personal decision based on the individual’s particular needs and preferences.
The following factors should also be taken into account when selecting the best treatment program for women:
- Age of the patient
- Medical and behavioral history
- Presence of multiple (co-occurring) disorders
- Length of time the patient has been dealing with the disease or disorder
- Severity of the disease/disorder
Once these and other factors have been evaluated, the range of treatment options for women who have been struggling with a mental health problem, addiction and/or behavioral disorder is likely to take one of the following three forms:
- Outpatient treatment
- Partial hospitalization
- Residential treatment
Benefits of Women-Only Treatment
Some women prefer to receive gender-specific treatment for addiction, eating disorders, and other mental and behavioral health issues. Research suggests that women tend to be more successful in women-only treatment programs. Some of the benefits of all-women treatment programs include:
- A safe environment to open up about sensitive or deeply personal issues
- Unique understanding of the issues and experiences that typically impact women, such as self-esteem, body image, parenting, trauma and abuse
- Studies suggest higher success rates in women-only treatment programs as women are more likely to complete a full stay in treatment in a single-gender program
- A strong support network with other women who share similar struggles
- Opportunity to focus on mental health and recovery without distraction
- Strong female role models as therapists, counselors and staff
Whether you prefer gender-specific or mixed-gender treatment, there are a number of options available to you. Some mental health treatment programs specialize in men’s issues or women’s issues, while others provide co-ed treatment with access to gender-specific groups.
The bottom line: Find a program that makes you feel safe and welcome, and where you believe your needs will be most closely met.