WOMEN'S DRUG ADDICTION TREATMENT

At New Found Life, we specialize in addressing the unique challenges that women face in overcoming drug addiction. Our program is meticulously designed to provide a safe, nurturing, and empowering environment where women can achieve recovery and regain control of their lives. We combine state-of-the-art medical treatment with holistic and experiential therapies, ensuring a well-rounded approach that addresses the physical, emotional, and psychological dimensions of addiction.

Drug Addiction in Women

Drug addiction in women is caused by a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. Women may experience addiction differently from men, often showing faster progression from initial use to dependence. This rapid progression can complicate treatment, requiring gender-specific strategies that are sensitive to the biological and social realities of women’s lives. Our program takes these factors into account, providing a supportive space that understands and addresses the barriers women face in seeking and sustaining recovery.

Dangers of Drug Abuse for Women

  • Health Risks: Women are at a heightened risk for cardiovascular problems, liver disease, brain damage, and other organ failures due to drug use. They also have a higher susceptibility to drug-induced fatal overdoses, emphasizing the need for prompt and effective treatment.
  • Reproductive Health Concerns: Drug addiction can lead to significant reproductive health issues, including irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, and complications during pregnancy, such as increased risk of miscarriage, premature birth, and neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) where the newborn suffers from withdrawal symptoms.
  • Mental Health Challenges: The interrelation between drug use and mental health issues is particularly strong in women, with increased incidences of co-occurring disorders such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These conditions often create a cycle of using drugs to cope with symptoms, only making symptoms worse and leading to further drug use.
  • Social Impact: The stigma associated with drug use can be more severe for women, leading to increased isolation and difficulty in seeking help. This stigma often extends to the workplace and social networks, disrupting careers and personal relationships.

Common Drug Addictions Among Women

Our treatment programs at New Found Life are designed to address a wide array of substance dependencies that are particularly prevalent among women, highlighting the nuanced challenges and health risks associated with each:

  • Prescription Opioids: Women are often prescribed opioids at higher rates than men, primarily for pain management. They may become dependent more quickly due to biological differences in pain perception and metabolism of drugs. Common opioids include oxycodone, hydrocodone, and fentanyl. Addiction can lead to severe respiratory depression and increased risk of overdose.
  • Benzodiazepines: Typically prescribed for anxiety and insomnia, benzodiazepines such as Xanax, Valium, and Ativan are highly addictive. Women may develop a dependency due to the calming effect of these drugs, which can quickly lead to tolerance and withdrawal issues, complicating their mental health further.
  • Stimulants: Stimulant drugs like methamphetamine and cocaine are used for their energy-boosting and appetite-suppressing effects, which can appeal to women under social and cultural pressures. These substances carry a high risk of cardiovascular problems, including heart attack and stroke, and can exacerbate mental health disorders.
  • Marijuana: Often used for its perceived benign effects, cannabis can lead to dependency, particularly when used to manage chronic stress, anxiety, or pain. While it is less harmful than many other drugs, chronic use can lead to cognitive impairments and mental health issues in predisposed women.

Medical Detox at New Found Life

For many, detoxification is a crucial first step in overcoming drug addiction, requiring careful management of withdrawal symptoms. At New Found Life, we facilitate medically-supervised detox through our licensed partner facilities, prioritizing safety and comfort.

The detox process typically lasts 7-10 days but varies based on individual health and substance use history. This phase is both physically and emotionally intense, necessitating a detox environment where women can feel safe while their bodies rid themselves of addictive substances. This first phase lays a strong foundation for continued recovery. Our approach includes:

  • ​​Comprehensive Evaluation: Before detox, each woman receives a thorough assessment of her mental and physical health to create a personalized detox plan.
  • 24/7 Supervision: Continuous medical monitoring ensures that any complications are addressed promptly, providing a secure environment during this vulnerable time.
  • Individualized Care: We design detox plans that consider each woman’s particular medical needs, substance use history, and personal circumstances.

 

After detox is complete, women typically transition into our female inpatient program. This gender-specific center offers a strong community and supportive environment. With a low client-to-staff ratio, care is very personalized to the individual. Continuing with residential treatment builds upon a strong foundation to promote a lifelong recovery.

Evidence-Based Practices and Holistic Therapies

We employ a combination of scientific, evidence-based therapies and holistic practices designed to meet the unique needs of women recovering from drug abuse and get to the underlying causes of the addiction. By treating chemical and mental dependency, women are able to work through any co-occurring disorders, as well, such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and more.

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
  • Equine Therapy
  • Yoga and Meditation
  • Music Therapy
  • Individual and Group Therapy Sessions

Addressing Underlying Trauma

At New Found Life, we understand that trauma often lies at the heart of drug addiction, particularly in women. Our treatment program integrates trauma-informed care as a foundational element, recognizing the profound impact that emotional wounds can have on substance abuse. By treating both the symptoms of addiction and the underlying causes, we offer a more effective path to recovery.

Trauma-informed care in our program includes a variety of therapeutic techniques tailored to help women process and heal from their past experiences. Techniques such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) are employed to help women reframe negative beliefs about themselves, reduce distress from traumatic memories, and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Group therapy sessions provide a supportive environment where women can share their experiences with peers who face similar challenges. These sessions are facilitated by therapists specifically trained in trauma care, ensuring that discussions are conducted in a safe and constructive manner. Patients continue to work through their trauma, even as they transition out of recovery.

Drug Relapse Prevention for Women

At New Found Life, we understand that recovery extends beyond initial treatment, which is why we emphasize ongoing education and support through aftercare programs:

  • Educational Tools: Our educational sessions equip women with crucial knowledge about addiction, coping strategies, and lifestyle management to navigate daily challenges without substance use. This continuous learning is essential to maintaining long-term sobriety.
  • Life Skills Training: This training teaches women skills that they can use to promote healthy behavior and decisions upon exiting recovery, preparing them to be self-sufficient and live a substance-free life.
  • Aftercare Options: Footsteps, our transitional program provides a supportive step-down living environment for those easing back to everyday life. Located near our main center, this program offers gender-specific residences where women can engage in work or education while still accessing structured support. Residents participate in shared meals, group activities, and outings to strengthen recovery bonds while maintaining accountability. This allows for a lower likelihood of relapse and increased personal growth and responsibility upon exiting treatment.

Get in Touch With New Found Life

Contact New Found Life to take the first step toward a life free from drug addiction. Our dedicated team is here to support you through every step of your recovery journey, providing personalized care for women that respects your unique experiences and needs.