How to Navigate Addiction Recovery During the Holiday Season

How to Navigate Addiction Recovery During the Holiday Season - present and Christmas decor
How to Navigate Addiction Recovery During the Holiday Season - present and Christmas decor

The Christmas and New Year holiday season can be a time of joy but also stress, especially for those in addiction recovery. Social gatherings, family dynamics, and seasonal expectations may trigger cravings or negative emotions. However, with proper planning, self-care, and support, it’s possible to maintain sobriety and enjoy the holidays.

At Anchored Tides Recovery, a women’s drug and alcohol rehab center in the heart of Huntington Beach, California, we understand the significance of supporting women in their journey toward sobriety, especially during the holidays.

We will provide you with detailed strategies, coping mechanisms, and expert advice on how to deal with addiction during the holiday season, ensuring you can enjoy a healthy, sober holiday experience.

Common Holiday Triggers for Those in Recovery

Understanding what triggers cravings or stress can help you prepare:

  • Social Pressure: Alcohol or substance use at family gatherings or parties.
  • Stress and Expectations: Financial burdens, travel, or strained family relationships.
  • Loneliness: The holidays may bring up feelings of isolation or grief.

Tip: Plan ahead by identifying potential triggers and creating strategies to manage them.

Preparing for a Sober Holiday Season

To ensure your recovery remains on track, it’s essential to proactively plan for the holiday season. Here are some practical steps to consider:

  • Create a Comprehensive Schedule: Plan your days to include regular support group meetings, therapy sessions, or counseling appointments. These can provide a steady source of encouragement and guidance.
  • Establish a Reliable Support Network: Reach out to your sponsor, counselor, or therapist for ongoing support. Share your concerns, feelings, and goals with them, as they can offer valuable insight and assistance.
  • Develop a List of Emergency Contacts: Identify individuals you can call or meet with if you’re struggling with cravings or facing a challenging situation. These contacts can be your lifeline during difficult moments.
  • Practice Assertiveness: Learn to say “no” confidently to invitations or situations that may compromise your sobriety. Honest communication about your needs and boundaries is essential.

Leaning on Your Support System

Your support system plays a pivotal role in helping you navigate the holiday season. Here’s how you can lean on them effectively:

  • Lean on Loved Ones: Spend time with family and friends who understand your recovery journey and can provide emotional support and encouragement. Sharing your feelings and challenges with trusted individuals can ease the burden.
  • Stay Connected to Your Recovery Community: Engage with your recovery group, attend meetings, and participate in group activities. The camaraderie of those who share similar experiences can be a powerful motivator.

Establishing Boundaries for a Sober Holiday

Setting clear boundaries is paramount during the holiday season. Consider implementing the following:

  • Communicate Your Boundaries: Inform family and friends about your commitment to sobriety. Ask for their understanding and support in avoiding situations involving substance use.
  • Identify and Avoid Triggers: Recognize places or events that may trigger cravings, and make a conscious effort to avoid them. Prioritize your well-being above all else.

Prioritizing Self-Care

Self-care is a fundamental aspect of maintaining your sobriety during the holidays. Focus on:

  • Healthy Eating and Rest: Nourish your body with nutritious food, prioritize adequate sleep, and stay hydrated. Physical well-being can positively impact your mental and emotional state.
  • Engage in Joyful Activities: Explore creative hobbies, participate in activities that bring you joy, and practice relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation. These activities can help alleviate stress.
  • Mindfulness and Stress Reduction: Incorporate mindfulness and stress-reduction techniques into your daily routine. Mindful breathing exercises, journaling, and gratitude practices can help you stay grounded.
Mindfulness Techniques - female meditating

Mindfulness Techniques to Stay Grounded

Incorporate these practices to manage holiday stress:

  • Breathing Exercises: Take 5-10 minutes to focus on slow, deep breaths.
  • Mindful Journaling: Reflect on your emotions and gratitude during the holidays.
  • Visualization: Picture yourself successfully navigating events with calm and confidence.

Tip: Simple mindfulness practices can help you stay focused and avoid impulsive decisions.

Seek Professional Help When Needed

If you find yourself struggling with addiction during the holidays, remember that seeking professional help is a sign of strength. Anchored Tides Recovery is here to provide the support and guidance you need to stay on track with your recovery journey.

Call Anchored Tides Recovery Today!

If you or a loved one is facing the challenges of addiction during the holidays, don’t hesitate to reach out to Anchored Tides Recovery at 866-329-6639. Our team of experienced professionals is ready to provide the care, guidance, and support necessary for a healthy and sober holiday season.

FAQ: Navigating Addiction Recovery During the Holiday Season

How can I stay sober during holiday events?

To stay sober during holiday events, plan ahead by bringing your own non-alcoholic drinks, having a support person attend with you, and setting boundaries. If you feel overwhelmed, give yourself permission to leave early and prioritize your well-being.

What are common holiday triggers for people in recovery?

Common triggers include social pressure to drink, family conflicts, financial stress, and feelings of loneliness. Recognizing these triggers and creating a plan to manage them can help you maintain sobriety.

Are there support groups available during the holidays?

Yes, many recovery groups, such as AA, NA, and online communities, offer special holiday meetings to provide extra support. Virtual options are also available if you’re unable to attend in person.

What are some healthy alternatives to holiday traditions involving alcohol?

Consider hosting a sober-friendly holiday party, volunteering in your community, enjoying outdoor activities, or starting new family traditions like cooking, crafting, or movie nights.

How can I practice self-care during the holiday season?

Prioritize self-care by scheduling time for mindfulness practices like meditation, journaling, or yoga. Set aside moments to rest, reflect, and engage in activities that recharge you emotionally and physically.

How to Help Your Daughter With Drug Addiction

How to Help Your Daughter With Drug Addiction - mother and daughter confrontation
How to Help Your Daughter With Drug Addiction - mother and daughter confrontation

Discovering that your daughter is struggling with drug addiction can be one of the most heartbreaking experiences a parent can face. You may feel overwhelmed, helpless, or unsure of how to navigate the situation. These emotions are normal, and while the journey ahead may seem daunting, there is hope. With the right support and professional guidance, recovery is possible.

Learning how to help your daughter with drug addiction begins with understanding her struggles and taking proactive steps to provide the care she needs. Your support as a parent is crucial, but addiction is a complex condition that often requires professional intervention. Combining compassion with effective treatment strategies can help your daughter achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life.

At Anchored Tides Recovery in Huntington Beach, CA, we specialize in supporting young women battling addiction. Our women-focused rehab programs offer a safe, nurturing environment where your daughter can heal and regain control of her life. “Anchored Tides gave my daughter her life back. I’ll forever be grateful for their compassionate care,” shares a recent client’s mother.

Take the first step today. Explore Anchored Tides Recovery’s comprehensive programs designed to empower young women to overcome addiction and thrive. Together, we can help your daughter reclaim her future.

How Do You Know If Your Daughter Is Struggling With Addiction?

Recognizing the signs of addiction early can make a significant difference in your daughter’s recovery journey. While every individual experiences addiction differently, several common behavioral, emotional, and physical signs may indicate she’s struggling.

Behavioral Signs

  • Secrecy and Isolation: It could be a red flag if your daughter becomes unusually secretive or withdraws from family and friends.
  • Changes in Habits or Interests: A sudden lack of interest in hobbies, school, or social activities may signal a problem.
  • Risky Behavior: Increased recklessness, such as staying out late or associating with new, questionable peers, can be concerning.

Emotional Signs

  • Mood Swings: Frequent outbursts of anger, irritability, or sadness may indicate underlying struggles.
  • Anxiety or Paranoia: These emotions are often intensified by substance use.

Physical Signs

  • Changes in Appearance: Look for unexplained weight loss, bloodshot eyes, or neglected hygiene.
  • Fatigue or Hyperactivity: Extreme fluctuations in energy levels can also be an indicator.
  • Health Issues: Frequent nosebleeds, coughing, or other health concerns might suggest drug use.

“What are the signs of addiction in my daughter?” Identifying behaviors like declining academic performance, trouble maintaining relationships, or unexplained financial issues can also point to deeper struggles.

Act early to make a difference. Contact Anchored Tides Recovery to access resources and programs supporting your daughter’s healing path.

The Emotional Toll of Your Daughter’s Addiction

Watching your daughter struggle with addiction can be an overwhelming emotional experience. As a parent, you may feel a range of emotions—guilt, wondering if you could have done something differently; fear, for her safety and future; frustration, from not knowing how to help; and helplessness, as her addiction feels out of your control. These feelings are not only common but also entirely valid.

It’s important to remember that addiction is a disease, not a reflection of your parenting or your daughter’s character. Healing is possible for both you and your daughter. Seeking help for parents of addicted daughters through support groups, therapy, or professional guidance like that offered at Anchored Tides Recovery can provide the tools needed to process these emotions and take effective action.

“I was so lost until Anchored Tides helped me understand addiction and rebuild trust with my daughter,” says one parent.

Take the first step today—contact Anchored Tides Recovery for support tailored to help families heal together.

How to Help Your Daughter With Drug Addiction

Supporting your daughter through addiction can feel overwhelming, but taking intentional, informed steps can make a meaningful difference. Here’s how to provide support for your addicted daughter while encouraging her toward recovery.

Understanding addiction as a disease—not a moral failure—can help you approach the situation with compassion and clarity. Addiction alters brain chemistry, affecting decision-making and impulse control. By learning about addiction, you’ll be better equipped to address her struggles and identify effective solutions.

How can I talk to my daughter about her addiction? Start with open, non-judgmental conversations. Avoid blame or shame, and instead, focus on expressing concern and support. For example, you might say, “I’ve noticed changes in your behavior, and I’m worried about you. How can I help?” Showing empathy builds trust and opens the door for honest dialogue.

While showing unconditional love, it’s important to set healthy boundaries. Boundaries create accountability and prevent enabling behaviors. For instance, you might say, “We’re here to support you, but we can’t ignore destructive behaviors.” Enforcing these boundaries helps her understand the seriousness of her situation.

How do I encourage my daughter to seek treatment? Frame treatment as an opportunity for healing rather than a punishment. Explain that professional help, such as the programs at Anchored Tides Recovery, provides specialized care for young women. Offer to help her research options or attend an initial consultation together.

Supporting your daughter through addiction requires patience, persistence, and love. Contact Anchored Tides Recovery today to learn how we can help you and your daughter on this journey.

Why Professional Help Is Essential

When dealing with addiction, professional treatment is often the most effective way to help your daughter reclaim her health and future. That’s where Anchored Tides Recovery comes in. Our women-focused rehab programs are designed to meet the unique needs of young women battling addiction.

Key Treatment Options for Daughters with Addiction

At Anchored Tides Recovery, we focus on uncovering the root causes of addiction. “They didn’t just treat the symptoms—they gave my daughter the tools to thrive,” says a parent.

Take action today to help your daughter start her journey to recovery. Contact Anchored Tides to learn more about our specialized programs.

Helping Your Daughter Build a Healthy Future

Recovery doesn’t end when treatment concludes. Supporting your daughter’s long-term recovery is a continuous journey that requires patience, consistency, and encouragement.

Family therapy sessions can strengthen your relationship and create an open, supportive dynamic. These sessions address past challenges and establish healthier communication patterns.
Encourage healthy habits like regular exercise, nutritious meals, and structured routines. Reducing exposure to triggers further reinforces her recovery.
Acknowledging achievements, like a month of sobriety, fosters a sense of accomplishment and encourages continued commitment.

Consistency and patience are essential. Let Anchored Tides Recovery support your family in navigating this journey together.

Take the First Step Today

Helping your daughter overcome addiction requires a combination of love, support, and professional care. At Anchored Tides Recovery, we specialize in addiction treatment for young women, offering compassionate, women-focused programs designed to address the unique challenges they face.

Don’t wait to take action. Contact Anchored Tides Recovery today to create a brighter, healthier future for your daughter and your family.

Your daughter’s path to recovery starts with your support. Call today—healing and hope are just a call away.

Benefits of a Women’s Only Addiction Treatment Center

Benefits of a Womens Only Addiction Treatment Center img

Are you or a loved one seeking addiction recovery support in Huntington Beach, CA? Anchored Tides Recovery is here to guide you on the path to healing. Choosing a women-only treatment center can provide numerous benefits that cater to the specific needs and experiences of women facing addiction.

A Safe and Supportive Environment

Here at Anchored Tides Recovery, we truly understand how crucial it is to create a safe and supportive haven for women walking the path to recovery. Our women-only treatment center is all about making sure you’re surrounded by folks who’ve been through similar struggles and can offer you the kind of empathy and encouragement you need.

Empowerment Through Unity

In our women-only space, you’ll find strength in togetherness. It’s pretty incredible how being part of a community of strong, determined women can lift your spirits. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Strength in Unity: Imagine being part of a group where you can inspire and uplift each other. Knowing you’re not alone can be a game-changer.
  • Shared Experiences: Talking to others who’ve faced similar challenges can provide you with fresh perspectives and valuable insights.
  • Empathy and Understanding: Our supportive community is all about having your back. Expect empathy and a whole lot of understanding as you journey towards recovery.

Comfortable Discussions in a Women-Only Setting

We get it; discussing sensitive stuff like addiction and recovery can feel daunting. But at Anchored Tides Recovery, we’ve got your back. Our women-only setting offers a comfy, judgment-free zone for you to open up:

  • A Safe Space: Think of our place as your safe haven, where you can be your real self without fear. No judgment or discrimination here.
  • Privacy and Confidentiality: Your privacy and what you share stay secure within our tight-knit community.
  • Gender-Specific Care: Our programs are tailored to fit women’s unique needs. We’ve created an environment where you can fully focus on your recovery, free from distractions or discomfort.

Tailored Treatment Programs

Our rehabilitation programs are thoughtfully designed to address the unique needs of women battling addiction. We recognize that women may face different challenges and triggers, and our programs are tailored to provide effective solutions.

  • Trauma-Informed Care: Address past traumas that may contribute to addiction.
  • Family Dynamics: Explore family relationships and dynamics in a supportive setting.

Emotional Connection and Sisterhood

Building strong emotional connections and sisterhood bonds is a fundamental aspect of our women’s only treatment center. We believe that connecting with others who share similar experiences is crucial for successful recovery.

  • Supportive Community: Form lasting friendships with women who understand your journey.
  • Peer Support: Receive encouragement and advice from those who have walked a similar path.

Privacy and Confidentiality

We prioritize your privacy and confidentiality. Our women’s only facility ensures a discreet and secure environment where you can focus solely on your recovery without concerns about co-ed interactions.

  • Confidentiality Assured: Rest easy knowing your personal information is protected.
  • Focus on Healing: Minimize distractions and maintain your focus on recovery.

Holistic Approach to Recovery

At Anchored Tides Recovery, we employ a holistic approach to recovery that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. Our programs address not only addiction but also mental health and overall well-being.

  • Wellness Practices: Explore yoga, meditation, and other holistic therapies.
  • Balanced Healing: Achieve harmony in your physical, mental, and emotional health.

Ready to Begin Your Journey to Recovery?

Choosing a women-only treatment center like Anchored Tides Recovery can provide you with the support and understanding you need during your recovery journey. Take the first step towards a brighter future by contacting us today.

Contact Anchored Tides Recovery now to learn more about our women’s only treatment center and start your path to recovery today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Anchored Tides Recovery exclusively for women?

Yes, Anchored Tides Recovery is exclusively for women. Our women’s only treatment center is designed to create a safe and supportive space specifically for women seeking addiction recovery.

What types of addiction do you treat?

We offer treatment for a wide range of substance use disorders, including alcohol addiction, drug addiction, prescription medication abuse, and more. Our programs are tailored to address various addiction challenges.

Are your programs evidence-based?

Yes, our treatment programs are evidence-based and designed to provide effective and proven methods for addiction recovery. We combine evidence-based therapies with holistic approaches to ensure comprehensive care.

How long does a typical treatment program last?

The duration of treatment varies depending on individual needs and the specific program chosen. Our team will work with you to create a customized treatment plan that suits your goals and circumstances.

Do you accept insurance?

We work with many insurance providers to make treatment more accessible. Please contact our admissions team to discuss your insurance coverage and payment options.

Take the first step towards a brighter future by choosing Anchored Tides Recovery, a women’s only treatment center dedicated to your recovery and well-being. Contact us today and start your journey to lasting sobriety.

How a Women’s Only Addiction Treatment Center Can Help You

How a Womens Only Addiction Treatment Center Can Help You image jpgAre you or someone you care about struggling with addiction? At Anchored Tides Recovery, we understand the unique challenges that women face when it comes to substance abuse. Our women’s only addiction treatment center in Huntington Beach, CA, is designed to provide a safe and nurturing environment where women can embark on the path to recovery. Here’s how our specialized program can help you regain control of your life and achieve lasting sobriety.

Understanding the Need for a Women’s Only Program

Why Choose a Women’s Only Addiction Treatment Center?

  • Women often have different emotional and psychological triggers for addiction than men, and they may have experienced trauma or abuse that requires specialized care.
  • In a women-only environment, clients can feel more comfortable sharing their experiences and forming deeper connections with peers who can relate to their struggles.

Comprehensive and Holistic Approach

Tailored Treatment Plans For Addiction Treatment

  • Our experienced team of therapists and medical professionals creates individualized treatment plans to address your unique needs and goals.
  • We offer a range of evidence-based therapies, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), group therapy, art therapy, and more.
  • Holistic treatments such as yoga, meditation, and nutrition counseling are integrated to promote overall well-being.

Safe and Supportive Community

Building Connections

Anchored Tides Recovery fosters a close-knit community of women who uplift and support one another throughout the recovery journey.

Group therapy sessions provide a space to share experiences, gain insights, and build a strong foundation for lasting recovery.

Underlying Issues of Addiction

Treating Co-Occurring Disorders

Addiction isn’t just about substances; it often comes tangled up with mental health challenges. At Anchored Tides Recovery, we get it. We understand that to truly overcome addiction, we have to dig deeper and address the mental health issues that often accompany it. That’s where our dual diagnosis approach comes in, and it’s a game-changer.

Why Dual Diagnosis Matters

  • Dual diagnosis recognizes that addiction and mental health issues often go hand in hand. Sometimes, one feeds into the other, creating a cycle that’s tough to break.
  • Those mental health challenges can take many forms, like depression, anxiety, trauma, or mood disorders. Ignoring them can make it harder to beat addiction and stay on the path to recovery.

Personalized Care for You

  • Our team of caring therapists and medical pros takes the time to understand your unique situation. We know that your journey is unlike anyone else’s, so we tailor our treatment to fit your needs.
  • Once we’ve got the full picture, we craft a plan that tackles both addiction and your mental health issues together. It’s about healing the whole you, not just the symptoms of addiction.

Long-Term Success

  • By addressing both addiction and mental health, our dual diagnosis approach sets you up for a brighter future. It’s about building resilience, emotional stability, and a strong foundation for a life free from addiction.

Relapse Prevention and Aftercare

Preparing for the Future

At Anchored Tides Recovery, we understand that recovery is an ongoing journey, and our commitment to your well-being doesn’t end when you complete our program. We are dedicated to equipping you with the tools and support necessary to maintain sobriety and thrive in the long term.

Customized Relapse Prevention Strategies

  • Our experienced team works closely with each client to develop personalized relapse prevention strategies. We believe that understanding your unique triggers and stressors is crucial to maintaining lasting recovery.
  • Through one-on-one counseling and group therapy sessions, we identify potential challenges and teach you effective coping mechanisms to handle them without resorting to substance use.

Aftercare Support Programs

  • Anchored Tides Recovery offers a robust aftercare support program to help you transition smoothly into life outside of our facility.
  • You will have access to ongoing counseling and support groups designed to provide guidance, encouragement, and accountability.
  • Our alumni network connects you with others who have successfully completed the program, fostering a sense of community and shared experiences.

Take the First Step Toward a Brighter Future

At Anchored Tides Recovery, we believe that every woman deserves a chance at a healthier, addiction-free life. If you or a loved one is ready to take the first step towards recovery, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our compassionate team is here to guide you through the process and help you regain control of your life.

FAQs About Our Women’s Only Addiction Treatment Center

Is your facility accredited?

Yes, Anchored Tides Recovery is fully accredited and licensed to provide addiction treatment services.

Do you accept insurance?

We accept a variety of insurance plans. Please contact us to verify your coverage and discuss payment options.

How long does the treatment program last?

The duration of the program varies depending on individual needs, but it typically ranges from 30 to 90 days.

What types of addiction do you treat?

We provide comprehensive treatment for various addictions, including alcohol, opioids, stimulants, and more.

Is family involvement encouraged?

Yes, we believe in the importance of family support. We offer family therapy sessions to help loved ones understand and actively contribute to the recovery process.

Women-Only Addiction Treatment in Huntington Beach

Women-Only Addiction Treatment in Huntington Beach - sunset at the Huntington Beach Pier

Women-Only Addiction Treatment in Huntington Beach - sunset at the Huntington Beach Pier

Are you or a loved one struggling with addiction? At Anchored Tides Recovery in Huntington Beach, we understand the unique challenges that women face in their journey to recovery. Our women-only addiction treatment program is designed to provide a safe and supportive environment where you can heal, grow, and regain control of your life.

Women’s Unique Journey with Addiction

It’s important to understand that when it comes to addiction, women often go through some pretty distinct experiences. It’s not a one-size-fits-all situation, and these differences can have a big impact on how addiction affects them. So, let’s break it down in a more relatable way:

  • Biological Factors: When it comes to addiction, it’s important to recognize the biological differences between men and women. Women typically have less body mass and a higher percentage of body fat than men. These differences can result in a heightened sensitivity to substances, potentially making them more vulnerable to addiction and its effects.
  • Social and Cultural Pressure: We all feel the pressure from society, right? But for women dealing with addiction, it can be even tougher. There’s that stigma and shame attached to it, which can make us think twice about seeking help or admitting what we’re going through.
  • Dealing with Past Trauma: It’s heartbreaking, but many women facing addiction have been through some really tough stuff. Sometimes, turning to substances becomes a way to cope with all that emotional pain. Getting through this trauma is a big part of getting better.
  • Dual Trouble: Life can throw us a curveball, and sometimes, it’s not just addiction we’re dealing with. Depression, anxiety, eating issues – these can tag along and make things even more complicated.
  • Balancing Acts: We’re often the ones juggling multiple roles in our families, right? But addiction can throw a wrench into that balancing act, straining our relationships and responsibilities.
  • Barriers to Help: Being a woman can sometimes mean facing unique hurdles when seeking addiction help. Childcare duties, tight budgets, or just not knowing where to turn can make the journey tougher.
  • Different Substance Preferences: Our taste in substances might not always match the guys’. Sometimes, we lean more toward prescription meds, and our reasons for using them can be totally different.
  • Recovery Squad: Many of us find real strength in being part of treatment programs with other women who’ve been through the same struggles. Having friends who get it can make a world of difference on the road to recovery.

Recognizing these unique experiences is crucial. It helps us tailor addiction treatment programs to better fit the specific needs of women. Creating a safe, understanding, and welcoming environment is the key to helping us on our journey to recovery and a brighter future without addiction.

Why Choose Women-Only Addiction Treatment?

  • Understanding and Empathy: Our all-female staff understands the specific emotional and psychological factors that contribute to addiction in women. We provide empathetic and compassionate care tailored to your needs.
  • Safety and Comfort: Women often feel safer and more comfortable in a women-only environment, making it easier to open up and share their experiences and emotions.
  • Community and Connection: Build strong connections with other women who have faced similar challenges. Peer support is a powerful tool for recovery.
  • Specialized Therapies: Our addiction treatment program incorporates therapies and counseling techniques that address the unique needs of women, including trauma-informed care and gender-specific counseling.

HUNTINGTON BEACH WOMEN REHABILITATION CENTER

HEALING WOMEN FROM DRUG & ALCOHOL ADDICTION, , MENTAL HEALTH, TRAUMA, AND EATING DISORDERS

 

Our Women-Only Treatment Approach

At Anchored Tides Recovery, we take a holistic approach to addiction treatment. We focus on healing the mind, body, and spirit to achieve lasting recovery. Our comprehensive program includes:

  • Individualized Treatment Plans: We create personalized treatment plans based on your specific needs and goals.
  • Medical Detoxification: Our medical team provides safe and comfortable detox services to help you start your recovery journey.
  • Therapeutic Modalities: Evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and more.
  • Nutrition and Wellness: We emphasize the importance of nutrition and physical well-being in the recovery process.
  • Mindfulness and Meditation: Techniques to reduce stress and promote inner peace.

Your Path to Recovery Starts Here

Don’t let addiction control your life any longer. Anchored Tides Recovery is here to help you take the first step towards a brighter, addiction-free future. Contact us today for a confidential consultation and take the first step towards healing.

Contact us now to begin your journey to recovery.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is your addiction treatment program exclusively for women?

Yes, Anchored Tides Recovery offers a women-only addiction treatment program designed specifically to address the unique needs of women in recovery.

What types of addiction do you treat?

We provide comprehensive treatment for various types of addiction, including alcohol, drugs, prescription medications, and co-occurring disorders.

How long does the treatment program last?

The duration of the program varies depending on individual needs, but our goal is to help you achieve lasting recovery. Some programs may last 30, 60, or 90 days.

Do you accept insurance?

Yes, we work with many insurance providers to help make addiction treatment affordable. Please contact us to discuss your insurance options.

Is my information confidential?

Absolutely. We prioritize your privacy and confidentiality. Your information and treatment details are kept secure and confidential.

Is Gender-Specific Treatment Actually Gender-Specific?

Gender specific Treatment

Gender specific Treatment

 

In a yearly national survey of treatment centers in the United States, in 2019, more than 7,800 of 15,960 centers reported offering treatment for women and individuals who identify as females. That, on its face, sounds great as far as the availability of gender-specific treatment, right?

Maybe not so much. 

There may not be a genuine consideration for gender-specific differences and gender issues in the treatment for substance abuse. Even when it’s not mixed-gender treatment, a program might still not be entirely speaking to the needs of women and gearing treatment to women. We are finding as time goes on that the definitions of what truly gender and women-specific treatment can vary significantly between centers and programs. 

When a center reports the availability of programs just for women, it might mean they have a weekly meeting just for women, for example. The broad terminology can mean there are some offerings for women, but they aren’t specific to the needs of women, particularly within the societal and individual context of their situation. There’s a scarce availability of truly gender-specific treatment programs. 

Understanding how our language impacts treatment is essential to deliver that genuinely women-centric focus in treatment. We have to learn more about the roots of treatment and the philosophies it’s built on because those continue to drive how we speak about and treat women. We also have to learn to be more curious in our questioning of what’s brought you to the place you’re in now, rather than simply assigning you a label.

All of this is challenging work because it requires that we reframe what treatment is and the concepts it’s built on. This reframing of the philosophy and language of treatment is a top priority for delivering women-centric addiction treatment for drugs and alcohol. This approach is different from programs that simply offer a gender-specific tract or discuss some gender-specific issues. 

 

The Male-Centric Treatment Framework

The concept of treating addiction goes back to the early 1900s

  • Courtenay Baylor is one of the names that come to mind as a pioneer in addiction treatment. 
  • Baylor essentially wrote the first textbook on how to be a substance abuse treatment counselor.
  • Baylor’s work is vital in how we do things even today. He based his treatment approaches primarily on men, which continues to influence substance abuse counseling in a larger sense.
  • In his book, Baylor only had one chapter on the treatment of women.
  • Samuel Ashwell was similarly a thought leader in this area, yet he spoke that men didn’t want to treat hysteria, linking it primarily to women. 
  • The idea of women struggling with addiction as being hysterical is one that’s stuck around, even if we don’t realize it.
  • The Alcoholics Anonymous Big Book includes language primarily for alcohol-dependent men.

So, where does this leave women? What are the lingering negative consequences for females who have an addiction to drugs or alcohol, such as an opioid use disorder? Much of this reinforces some of the primary reasons women don’t get help in the first place—namely, shame is a big one, as are relationships and family commitments. Women-focused treatment and women-only programs need to realize what their shortcomings are to address differences in treatment outcomes. 

 

Screen Shot 2021 10 01 at 20.36.54

 

Why Aren’t We Asking More Questions?

At our gender-specific treatment center, we are rethinking the traditional ideas of addiction and how we can best treat it.

  • Many women who have a history of substance abuse also have a borderline personality disorder (BPD) or similar co-occurring disorders. 
  • A diagnosis of BPD is closely associated with a history of trauma, yet for men, we might diagnose them as having post-traumatic stress disorder instead of a personality disorder. 
  • As a woman with this diagnosis and a substance use disorder, the message becomes “you are the problem,” rather than talking about what happened to you to get you to this point.

Using labels is the prescriptive language often found in outdated gender-specific models not considering sex differences. 

  • When prescriptive language is part of your treatment program, you become your label, even in a gender-specific environment. 
  • You may internalize that label as who you are, which again goes back to the idea that you’re the problem rather than the concept that you have a problem that needs treatment.
  • Often, the labels created as part of prescriptive language models in a rehab program prevent the actual problem from being treated.

Another issue with prescriptive language and labels?

  • There’s no sense of curiosity on the part of your mental health providers, which ultimately leads to unfair treatment. 
  • A treatment provider may believe that because you have the label of BPD, to go back to the above example, they know all of your problems and how you should be treated. 
  • That eliminates the questioning and curious element of treatment. Therefore you’re not receiving addiction treatment as the individual you are.

With this problem of prescriptive language in mental health status, providers aren’t asking relevant contextual questions.

Labels lead to the same treatment for everyone, yet we know that what’s most effective for addiction is to treat everyone with an individualized treatment plan.

  • Treatment language doesn’t tell us what we need to know, as it stands currently. 
  • Instead, we say the person needs to “be fixed.” 
  • When we don’t account for context and experience in the treatment process, we also don’t consider how society influences substance use disorders.

For example, women in treatment are often victims of trauma, violence, sexual abuse, and inequality, which play a pivotal role in mental health and substance abuse disorders. Trauma-informed care and specialized treatments should be an integral part of treatment for individuals, leading to differences in the addiction recovery process. 

 

Moving From a Deficit to Strength-Based Perspective

Along with taking out prescriptive language and labels, our rehab center’s treatment of substance use moves from a deficit perspective to one of strength. So what does this mean?

Using the borderline personality disorder example, we build you up based on your inherent strengths. With BPD, you may have a focus on your alliance with others. In our approach, we might want to ask what continues to give you strength and a sense of resilience despite your past. We also consider the social context that you’ll return to in our treatment method. Other treatment options that aren’t genuinely gender-specific programs or women-specific might help with job placement and rebuilding family relationships. Still, they don’t consider broader societal elements that will affect your recovery.

  • What societal messages will you receive? 
  • What power differentials will you experience, and how can we internally empower you to deal with those? 
  • Are you returning to a supportive environment, or is it one where something like domestic violence could be an issue? 
  • What is your marital status, and is there a history of abuse? How can we create a foundation despite the traumatic events you’ve dealt with for complete treatment effectiveness? 

Individualized mental health care is about asking what your story is rather than creating stories we believe are relevant to you.

  • We work to exchange labels for curiosity in the addiction community and our mental health settings. 
  • We want to ask questions instead of making assumptions or adding a label where we see a problem. 
  • We also strive to externalize the situation outside of who you are to help you take accountability differently.

 

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Our treatment team will move away from the perception of “I am the problem” to dealing with the problem for our female patients. We can look at core issues and gender-associated differences in patients and how particular situations such as physical abuse could have led you to where you are. 

So with all of this in mind, if you’re seeking treatment or looking for something individualized to who you are, you want to ask whether a program is a gender-specific treatment or if it just has a gender-specific tract.

Anchored Tides Recovery’s ongoing commitment to ensure that gender-specific treatment in all ways means we avoid outdated language in treatment that doesn’t consider the unique elements of what it is to be a woman and how that plays into your individualized treatment needs. Anchored Tides Recovery believes there are tremendous benefits of gender-specific treatment when looked at in the ways above, improving clinical outcomes and retention in treatment. If you’re interested in learning more about how we offer a truly inclusive gender-specific approach to treatment, call our helpline today, 866-600-7709