Women And Alcohol Use Disorder

During the pandemic, alcohol and substance use has been increasing. Financial worries and loneliness led to a large amount of stress for everyone in America. Uncertainty about the future and coping with social unrest also played a part in increasing substance use. For many women, especially those who work and provide caregiving, the amount of stress was unprecedented. So it’s not surprising that substance use disorders are on the rise. Alcohol use disorder, especially, is becoming more common among women.

Women Face Higher Risks When Misusing Alcohol

Women face higher risks when they drink to excess. They are more likely to experience alcohol poisoning, and liquor itself can affect them more than men. If a woman drinks while she is pregnant, she can cause harm to herself as well as the fetus. Alcohol can raise your blood pressure if you’re pregnant and cause congenital abnormalities.

Studies show that women are more likely to experience domestic violence, sexual assault, or other crimes when they have been drinking. While these crimes are never a woman’s fault, the trauma can cause a self-defeating cycle.

People who drink to excess regularly often have negative consequences in their personal, financial, and business lives. They may get DUIs or be late to work. They may have financial problems.

Alcohol use disorder describes a person who continues to drink even after it has caused problems.

Long-Term Dangers Of Alcohol Misuse

Women and men who abuse alcohol are putting their bodies through a lot. The liver has to work hard to clean your blood of alcohol while your brain slows down and reaction time increases. Long-term heavy drinking can cause brain damage and liver disease. It’s also linked to breast cancer.

Alcohol also contributes to heart disease, a significant cause of death according to the CDC. One in five women who dies in the US has succumbed to heart disease.

Alcohol use disorder can mask other conditions as well. People who drink alcohol heavily are more likely to suffer from depression, anxiety, and PTSD. These are all treatable conditions that can affect a woman's quality of life when they go untreated.

Getting Help for Alcohol Use Disorder

Alcohol use disorder is a treatable disease that affects millions of men and women. Recovery is possible! We can help you begin a new path towards healing and empowerment. Learn more about the treatment options we offer and how we can help! Give us a call at +1 (949) 279-1376 or +52 (612) 153-5726 to learn more.