The more specialized and customized addiction treatment is, the better the chances of recovery. Men’s only addiction treatment programs offer care specifically suited to men struggling with substance use disorder or other mental health disorders.
Some key reasons that outline the need for programs for men include:
- Over 50% of men with a substance abuse disorder also struggle with a mental health disorder.
- Men are more often incarcerated for drug offenses than women
- Nearly twice as many men meet the basic criteria for a substance abuse disorder compared to women
- Substance abuse among men comes with increased risks of medical and psychological problems.
- Experience anxiety and stress differently.
Eliminating Societal Expectations
A significant factor in why men eventually succumb to drugs or alcohol is societal expectations. Peer pressure and other environmental factors also play a part. Many men develop issues with alcohol at a young age because they feel they must prove their masculinity by how much they drink. Nearly all illegal drug usage is more prevalent among males than it is among women, and illicit drug use is more likely to lead to ER visits or overdose deaths in men than in women. This is why it’s critical to select a gender-specific treatment program that takes into account each of these concerns in a setting that is encouraging and accepting of the various individual treatment demands.
The Opportunity To Bond With Others
One of the most important advantages of men’s therapy for addiction is that it allows you to form bonds with other men who share similar experiences and gives a way to create a support network after you leave treatment. Organizing clients based on gender or other characteristics have a great deal of promise. During treatment, a lot of men discover that they connect more effectively with their own sex.
Target Issues That Affect Men
Men could be reluctant to acknowledge that they have no control over certain areas of their lives or they might not want to be perceived as victims of their circumstances. They might suffer from additional problems that are not specific to women. A male-only treatment process might target specific areas such as:
- Anger Issues
- Repressed emotions
- Social pressure to “tough it out”
- History of violent behavior
- Physical problems from drug use
Provides A Safe Environment
Men can engage in the freedom and comfort of a gender-specific treatment facility without worrying about being judged or feeling guilty. Staff members who are aware of the complex role that gender frequently plays in addiction are there to support. At Ethan Crossing we know that addiction treatment can often be an unpleasant process. However, when the process is attempted without medical supervision, the results can be disastrous. This is why it is very unsafe to try to detox on your own, especially if your dependency issues are acute.
How We Can Help You
Men often try to handle their substance use issues on their own out of a desire to come off as strong and independent. These attempts to “tough it out” only serve to make addiction worse and gravely harm one’s health. Deciding to get sober is hard to do. It is also one of the bravest and best decisions you can make in your lifetime. But you don’t have to do it alone. Reach out to Ethan Crossing today, where you’ll be welcomed by other men in recovery.