Men and women often have different experiences when it comes to addiction. More men than women struggle with substance abuse. They’re about twice as likely to abuse drugs and become dependent on them than women are. But men are also more likely than women to seek treatment for addiction. The benefits of drug rehab for men include addressing their unique needs and helping them maintain their sobriety throughout their lives.
Statistics About Men and Substance Abuse
Familiarizing yourself with the following facts about substance use issues in men can help you understand why drug rehab for men is important:
- Men with PTSD are twice as likely as women to have a co-occurring substance abuse disorder.
- The suicide rate for men is four times the rate for women.
- Men are more likely than women to overdose from opioids.
- More men than women use marijuana.
- Men are generally at a higher risk of becoming dependent on drugs than women, but women may become dependent at a faster rate.
- Alcohol withdrawal symptoms are usually more pronounced in men than women.
- About 68,000 men die from alcohol-related causes each year compared with 27,000 women.
Get Help Now
Call our admissions specialists who can help you find the best treatment center for your needs. If you need help with drug abuse or addiction recovery, we can help you.
Men and Mental Health
Unfortunately, there is still a stigma surrounding mental illness. This is especially true for men. Societal standards encourage men to be stoic and stable. Although these views are outdated, they still exist. This stigma might prevent people from seeking drug rehab for men.
Sometimes, men avoid seeking treatment because they view mental health issues as a sign of weakness. They may also be hesitant to admit that they can’t control their substance use.
Men may also avoid talking about their problems with close friends, family members and loved ones. This makes it particularly difficult to transition into treatment.
Admitting that you have a problem is often the first step toward getting help. But men report fewer symptoms of common mental health issues than women. That could be caused by stigma as well as other stereotypes that surround male roles in society.
For example, it has become commonplace to have a drink to wind down or use substances to enjoy social interactions. “I’m just using to take the edge off” has become a common excuse for justifying substance use and avoiding drug rehab for men.
Other reasons that guys may be less likely to talk about substance problems and other mental health issues include the following:
- The belief that they are managing the condition appropriately
- The desire to avoid being a burden
- Embarrassment
- Hesitancy to ask for help
- Lack of support or someone to talk to
Signs of Addiction and Mental Health Issues in Men
Even if you or a man in your life doesn’t admit that they have a problem with substances, they may exhibit signs of addiction. If you have a close relationship with someone who exhibits the following symptoms, they might be struggling with a substance use disorder:
- Frequent intoxication
- Binging on drugs or alcohol
- An inability to stop using regardless of the consequences
- Increasing risky or aggressive behavior
- Financial difficulties
- Legal issues
- Mood changes
- Secretiveness
Because women generally develop addiction or dependence faster than men, the signs of substance use disorder in a male may go unnoticed for a while. It may be easier for a man to hide the symptoms of addiction than a woman. If you’re a guy, it’s important to be aware of these differences and seek support.
Reasons to Enter Drug Rehab for Men
Getting honest with yourself or a loved one can help you get appropriate and adequate treatment. There is no shame in seeking help for substance use. Some of the reasons to enter drug rehab for men are as follows:
- You have tried to quit before but have trouble stopping.
- You experience withdrawal symptoms when you reduce or stop your drug use.
- You spend a great deal of time using, thinking about or obtaining drugs.
- It takes a long time to recover from the effects of substances.
- Your work, family life and health are suffering.
- Substance use is causing you to neglect professional and personal responsibilities.
- You have cravings for drugs.
Benefits of Drug Rehab for Men
Society puts a great deal of pressure on men to behave a certain way. Appearing vulnerable can threaten this idea of masculinity. Therefore, it’s important to understand the unique pressures that men face when dealing with addiction and recovery.
Men report that they abuse drugs for the following reasons:
- Pressure at work
- Financial pressures
- Health problems
- Significant life changes
- Trauma
One of the primary benefits of drug rehab for men is that it takes into account these pressures and reasons for abusing substances. The right drug rehab for men offers non-judgmental, customized treatment that reduces stigma and provides effective results.
You’ll also develop a strong support network in a drug rehab for men. If you have not had someone to talk to about your problems in the past, you will now. You’ll learn how to access resources, develop a relationship with mental health professionals and participate in support groups. You’ll also be around other men who have gone through similar experiences, which can make you feel less alone. Hearing about other men’s experiences can also give you new perspectives that you haven’t come across outside of drug rehab for men.
Drug Rehab for Men at Burning Tree West
When you feel comfortable you feel during drug rehab for men, you’re more likely to achieve a lasting recovery. At Burning Tree West, it’s our mission to help people avoid relapse and develop a fulfilling life after rehab.
We offer an inclusive, supportive drug rehab for men in Arizona. You can express yourself fully in individual therapy without fear of judgment. You can also make connections with other people who understand what you’re going through. Evidence-based and alternative modalities support healing in every aspect of your life. Our transitional living facilities offer guidance as you move back into your day-to-day routine after drug rehab for men.
Our comprehensive treatment model is designed to support young men in recovery. We support you every step of the way, helping you to transition from a life of substance use to a life of meaningful sobriety.
Get Help Now
Call our admissions specialists who can help you find the best treatment center for your needs. If you need help with drug abuse or addiction recovery, we can help you.