Women substance abusers are more likely to experience depression, eating disorders, agoraphobia, and other panic disorders than men are. Men are more likely to be subject to disorders related to paranoia and compulsive or antisocial behavior. Substance abusers, whether male or female, are more likely than the general population to be survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Women are generally more willing to talk about it. In women, alcohol abuse is more likely to be triggered by specific life crises.
Women are less likely than men to see their drinking as their primary problem.
Women entering addictions treatment are six times more likely to have attempted suicide than men are. When we asked for feedback from clients who did not improve, discontinued service, or were particularly resistant to treatment, comments from female clients led us to investigate a gender-specific treatment group. A year ago, the Female Gamblers Treatment Group was formed. Women often have a history of physical or sexual abuse or are currently in abusive relationships. They find it difficult to discuss these issues in mixed-gender groups.