When it comes to heroin use, there are many differences amongst users. While some use occasionally or “recreationally” others use every single day. Either can be considered an addiction. For those addicted, heroin rehab is the best option for treatment. To learn more about how heroin use affects different groups, such as males and females, keep reading.
Heroin Usage: Males vs. Females
Heroin usage, like all types of drug usage, is equally devastating for both men and women. However, men and women tend to use different types of drugs, and they also tend to have a different attitude toward treatment. For example, while men are more likely to develop an addiction overall, women are more likely to receive treatment for their addiction.
Males also tend to start using drugs at a younger age, putting themselves at a higher risk for addiction later in life. Males are also much more likely to consume drugs or alcohol in a large quantity when compared to women.
Another study shows that females tend to become addicted to drugs more quickly than men, even though they use them less frequently. They also tend to suffer greater consequences to both their health and personal lives. It’s easier for women to develop an addiction to drugs like heroin and other stimulants because of estrogen and how it reacts to the drug.
While it’s hard to determine who drug use affects more, men or women, it’s easy to say that they’re both affected in different ways. While males consume more heroin, women are more likely to become addicted and change their lives as a result.
Reasons for Higher Addiction Rates Amongst Marginalized Groups
Marginalized groups, like women, LGBTQ+ people, and people of color, often use drugs at a higher rate than other groups. This is because of the increased amount of trauma that these groups endure, whether because of sexism, homophobia, or racism. The increased trauma experienced leads to an increased risk of developing an addiction. For example, addiction rates amongst LGBTQ+ people are drastically higher than amongst the general population. That can be attributed to the homophobia they have to deal with from a young age. For this reason, specialized treatment is often recommended for these minority groups.
Should Treatment Differ Between Men and Women?
Back in the day, treatment for drug addiction used to be incredibly generalized. Everyone received the same type of treatment as a group. Nowadays, this has changed. More and more treatment centers are beginning to offer specialized treatment for different marginalized groups, like women, LGBTQ+ people, and people of color.
Offering treatment that is specialized can help increase its efficacy. For example, if treatment is created for a woman, they may have more success than in general treatment. Specialized treatment allows people a safe space to share their struggles with like-minded people. For example, males may not understand all of the struggles women go through, and vice versa. Having the specialized treatment that tackles those gender-specific issues can go a long way.
Seek Treatment at Heroin Rehab Today
If you or a loved one is struggling with heroin addiction, it’s time to get help. Checking yourself into heroin rehab is the best option and can help get you on the right path. Here at Asheville Recovery Center, we offer a variety of different treatment programs, including intensive outpatient treatment, detox referral, and partial hospitalization programs. To learn more about our programs and how we can help you get and stay sober, call today to speak with an addiction specialist. You no longer have to struggle with addiction alone. We’re eager to help and answer any questions you may have.
