While substance use disorders can affect everybody, some groups are at higher risk than others. Why is this the case?
Gender is one significant factor, with men being more likely to use certain drugs than women and both sexes having differing rates of substance use-related issues. Fortunately, drug rehab is equally effective for both men and women and can help you to break free from addiction.
If you’re struggling to control your substance use, call the addiction experts at The Bluffs by dialing 850.374.5331.
Gender Differences in Substance Use and Addiction
Generally speaking, men are more likely than women to engage in any kind of substance use. Men typically begin using drugs and alcohol at a younger age, and a higher percentage of men develop substance use disorders overall. With that being said, men and women have a similar risk of developing substance use disorders after their initial use.
But the gender differences don’t stop there. Men are more likely to use substances longer before meeting the criteria for substance use disorders. By contrast, women tend to develop addiction more quickly and have more substance-related problems.
Are Men More Likely to Abuse Alcohol?
Alcohol is the most commonly abused substance in the United States. More than one in 10 people struggle with an alcohol use disorder each year, according to data collected by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. And when it comes to answering the question, “Are men more likely to abuse alcohol than women?” the answer is a resounding yes.
The data shows that:
- 12.7% of men over the age of 18 have an alcohol use disorder
- 9.4% of women over the age of 18 have an alcohol use disorder
- 59.1% of men have used alcohol in the past month
- 51.0% of women have used alcohol in the past month
Furthermore, men are more likely to engage in both heavy alcohol use and binge alcohol use. This is true despite the fact that there are distinct levels of drinking to classify men and women as heavy drinkers: Men must consume 14 or more drinks per week to be considered heavy drinkers, whereas women need to have just seven or more drinks.
Are Men More Likely to Abuse Drugs?
The answer to the question, “Are men more likely to abuse drugs?” is a little more complicated.
In terms of overall drug use, men are slightly more likely to use and abuse illicit substances. But there are specific categories where the opposite is true.
Specifically, men are more likely to abuse drugs such as:
- Marijuana
- Methamphetamine
- Cocaine
Women, on the other hand, are more likely to abuse drugs such as:
- Benzodiazepines
- Sedatives
Drugs like opioids have similar rates of addiction, though this wasn’t always the case. In 2019, men were more likely to have an opioid use disorder than women. Just a year later, however, the rates of opioid use between genders were nearly identical.
Get Help for Addiction at The Bluffs
Regardless of gender, struggling with a substance use disorder can have devastating consequences. It can impact both your physical and emotional health and cause significant problems in relationships and finances. By the time a person has developed a substance use disorder, it can be extremely difficult to stop using without professional intervention.
Fortunately, quality addiction treatment has been proven to be effective at helping people escape addiction and achieve lasting recovery.
When you’re ready to stop using substances for good, contact the addiction experts at The Bluffs by calling 850.374.5331. Our knowledgeable, compassionate team can walk you through the treatment options available and help you get started on the path to recovery.
