One of the reasons why gender-specific treatment exists for addiction is that men and women become addicted to alcohol for different reasons. A men’s rehab program focuses on the factors of alcohol use disorder that are specific to men. Treatment is designed to explore the root causes of the condition and find a treatment plan that men respond to. With the right treatment, men who suffer from addiction can have a lifelong recovery from alcohol without relapse.
There are specific reasons why men abuse alcohol. They can range from peer pressure, higher dopamine levels, and higher tolerance to the unwillingness to believe that they have a problem. Understanding these differences between men and women helps alcohol addiction treatment professionals develop an effective plan and promotes lifelong recovery from addiction. There are several reasons why men become addicted to drugs and alcohol. Amatus Recovery Centers can guide you through some common reasons.
Higher Levels of Dopamine
Dopamine has multiple functions in the brain. One of these functions is to produce pleasurable feelings. When men drink, the brain produces higher levels of dopamine than it does when women drink. This reaction in the brain has several implications. First, it means that men draw more pleasure from drinking. Second, it may take longer for men’s bodies to grow a tolerance to alcohol. Third, men may have a far more tough time saying no to alcohol once they get addicted.
Social Acceptance
Even at an older age, men give in to peer pressure far easier than women. This need for social acceptance is what leads men to drink repeatedly. They may drink with their friends every weekend or visit the bars to make a social connection. This type of social behavior becomes a lifestyle, which inevitably turns into alcohol addiction or alcohol abuse.
Risky Behavior
In general, men are more likely to engage in risky or dangerous behavior than women. Risky behavior may include driving drunk, binge drinking or going on benders, or taking chances with their life. Men are more likely to drink over their limit even when they know it can affect their health. This type of behavior often leads to alcohol addiction. As a result, more men are likely to require help from a substance abuse treatment program to stop drinking.
Unhealthy Environments
If alcohol abuse is present in the home, a child is at a higher risk of alcohol addiction. Men exposed to addiction or substance abuse learn a way of life that can influence their behavior and emotional state down the road. This does not just happen during childhood. Men who subject themselves to unhealthy environments at work, school, or other places are more likely to develop a binging habit.
Mental Disorders
There is a strong correlation between mental disorders and alcohol addiction, so mental health treatment may also be necessary. Mental health conditions often associated with addiction include:
- Bipolar disorder
- ADHD
- Borderline personality disorder
- PTSD
- Anxiety
- Depression
If left untreated, a mental disorder can trigger an addiction. Likewise, an addiction can intensify the symptoms of a disorder, making it more difficult to manage. Dual diagnosis treatment helps clients who are suffering from co-occurring disorders. Alcohol addiction treatment is designed to help the client manage the symptoms of their mental health condition while overcoming their addiction at the same time.
Learn More About Alcohol Addiction at Amatus Recovery Centers
If you would like to learn more about alcohol addiction or alcohol abuse, contact Amatus Recovery Centers at 833.631.0525. We offer a men’s rehab program in Maryland to meet your needs and help you reach your recovery goals. Call us today to explore your treatment options and get started with your treatment program.
Originally Posted: https://www.amatusrecoverycenters.com/