Studies have shown a startling increase in alcohol use among women in the U.S. in recent years. In the past, cultural norms prevented most women from developing drinking problems because it was considered “unladylike” to drink the equivalent of a man, or to drink in excess past a certain age. Historically, most women would age out of their drinking days once they “settled down” and had children. This is no longer the case. The rise in problem drinking among women is concerning for several reasons, especially due to women’s inability to metabolize alcohol as well as men. Women are getting married and having children later in life, and the extension of this single period may be one factor contributing to increased alcohol use among young women. Alcohol has become a very normalized part of dating culture, and for women who are dating regularly, alcohol consumption is often expected. Companies are also taking advantage of the shift towards gender equality by marketing alcohol to women as a symbol of female liberation. Unfortunately, women and men drinking equal amounts does not mean equality, as women are far more likely to suffer the health consequences of alcohol abuse. Older women are also seeing a troubling increase in alcohol use. The National Health Interview Study found that binge drinking among women over 60 increased an average of four percent per year between 1997 and 2014, while drinking among older men stayed relatively the same. Experts are unable to pinpoint one specific reason for this rise in consumption, but some factors at play may be the prevalence of childhood trauma and mental illness among women. Ultimately, women’s bodies are more vulnerable to heavy alcohol use and problems such as alcohol-induced liver disease. If you believe you may have a problem with alcohol, now is the time to ask for help.
At Arbor Behavioral Healthcare, you will meet knowledgeable, compassionate professionals that understand addiction in all its forms. The Arbor uses an integrative and holistic approach to treat addiction and mental health issues. No treatment is one-size-fits-all, and at The Arbor you will have a team of experts prepared to create your customized treatment plan. We offer care for your mind, body, and spirit, so that you can heal from the inside out and look forward to a lifetime of sobriety and wellness. If you are ready to take the first step in your recovery, please call us at 844-413-2690.