As the dialogue around addiction has evolved, it has become more widely accepted as a complex interplay of various factors rather than a simple consequence of poor choices. The topic of men and addiction has garnered attention, highlighting gender-specific vulnerabilities and the need for tailored recovery solutions.

At Hand in Hand Recovery Center, we understand the nuances of addiction in men. Our approach is designed to address these unique needs, fostering an environment where recovery is both attainable and sustainable. For more information or to begin your personal journey of addiction recovery, call us today at (470) 280-2791.

Understanding Men and Addiction

Addiction does not discriminate; it affects individuals regardless of age, race, or gender. However, men are more likely to abuse drugs and alcohol than women. This is reflected in the patterns of substance use, where men not only engage in drug and alcohol use at an earlier age compared to women but also in larger quantities. The reasons behind this disparity are multifaceted, encompassing biological, psychological, and social elements.

Men and Illicit Drug Use

Men are more inclined to engage in the consumption of nearly all categories of illegal substances. Additionally, the use of illegal substances more frequently leads to emergency room visits or fatal overdoses among males compared to females. “Illicit” encompasses the utilization of unauthorized drugs, inclusive of marijuana (as classified by federal regulations) and the improper use of prescription medications. Across most demographics, males exhibit higher incidences of either utilizing or developing a dependency on these illegal substances and alcohol when compared to females. 

Why Men Are Susceptible to Addiction

Several factors contribute to the increased vulnerability of men to addiction.

1. Biological Differences: Men and women process substances differently due to biological distinctions. For instance, men typically have a higher percentage of body water, impacting how alcohol is diluted in the body. This can lead to men consuming higher amounts of alcohol before experiencing its effects, potentially leading to increased consumption and, subsequently, addiction.
2. Social and Cultural Norms: Societal expectations often dictate that men should be stoic, suppressing emotions rather than expressing them. This cultural norm can drive men towards substance abuse as a coping mechanism for unaddressed emotional or mental health issues.
3. Mental Health Stigmas: Men are less likely to seek help for mental health issues, partly due to stigma. This reluctance can lead to self-medication with drugs or alcohol, escalating into addiction.
4. Risk-Taking Behavior: Studies have shown that men are more likely to engage in risky behaviors, including substance use. This propensity for risk-taking is linked to both biological tendencies and social conditioning.

Comparing Susceptibility Between Men and Women

While men are statistically more likely to engage in substance abuse, it’s crucial to understand that addiction affects everyone differently. Women may face their own unique set of challenges in addiction, including faster progression from use to dependence, known as “telescoping.” However, the focus on men and addiction highlights the need for gender-specific approaches in treatment and recovery.

How Men Are Treated for Addiction

Treatment for men must consider the factors that uniquely affect them. At Hand in Hand Recovery Center, our PHP and IOP programs are designed with these considerations in mind.

• Gender-Specific Therapy: Providing a space where men can explore issues related to masculinity, societal expectations, and personal identity without judgment or stigma.
• Integrated Treatment for Co-occurring Disorders and Dual Diagnosis: Addressing not just the addiction but also any underlying mental health issues, with an emphasis on overcoming the stigma of seeking help.
• Coping Strategies: Developing healthy coping mechanisms for stress, emotional regulation, and communication, countering the societal norms that often lead men towards substance abuse.

Our Levels of Care

At Hand in Hand Recovery Center, our rehab programs in Marietta are structured into distinct levels of care to cater to the varied needs and stages of recovery that individuals may find themselves in. These levels include PHP, IOP, and OP, each offering a different intensity and approach to treatment.

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

PHP is the most intensive form of outpatient care. It is designed for individuals who require significant support and structure but do not need 24-hour supervision. This program typically runs five to seven days a week for several hours each day, often totaling 20 to 30 hours per week. Clients engage in a comprehensive schedule that may include individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, educational sessions, and possibly medical monitoring.

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

IOP is less intensive than PHP but more so than standard outpatient programs. It’s designed to accommodate the individual’s personal life, allowing them to continue with work, school, or family obligations. Programs typically meet three to five times a week for about three hours per session, totaling around 9 to 15 hours per week. The focus is on group therapy, but IOP also includes individual counseling sessions, family counseling, and educational workshops. The aim is to develop coping strategies, improve problem-solving skills, and foster a supportive community.

Outpatient Program (OP)

OP is the least intensive level of care, designed for ongoing support and maintenance of recovery. The frequency and duration can vary widely but typically involve attending therapy sessions once or twice a week. These programs focus on continuing therapy (individual and group), relapse prevention education, and support for maintaining a sober lifestyle.

Beginning The Road To Recovery

Recognizing the need for assistance and admitting to a substance issue can be especially challenging for men, often due to societal expectations. If you’re wondering whether our rehab program tailored specifically for men is the right fit for you, below are some indicators that it might be time to seek help.

• You find yourself needing to consume alcohol or drugs daily or nearly every day.
• You’ve noticed that your usual amount isn’t enough anymore, and you have to increase your intake to feel the same effects.
• Attempts to stop using these substances on your own have been unsuccessful and short-lived.
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms becomes a reality if you go even a short period without drugs or alcohol.
• Your job performance, home environment, and relationships are deteriorating due to your substance use.
• Both your physical and mental health have suffered as a result of your addiction to alcohol or drugs.

If these situations resonate with you, our gender-specific program may offer the supportive environment you need to address and overcome your addiction.

Learn More About Treatment for Men in Marietta, GA

The discussion around men and addiction is important to understanding the specific vulnerabilities and needs of men facing addiction. By tailoring treatment approaches, such as those offered by Hand in Hand Recovery Center, we can provide effective support and a path towards recovery that acknowledges and addresses these unique challenges. With the right support and strategies, recovery is within reach. Contact us today to begin.

More: Does Alcohol Affect Men’s Fertility?

Ryan Humphries, LPC, MACN

J. Ryan Humphries, LPC, MACN is the clinical director at Hand in Hand Recovery Center where he helps men from all walks of life recovery from substance use disorder. Find more about J. Ryan on <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/joseph-ryan-humphries-marietta-ga/1020046">Psychology Today</a> Psychology Today.