Understanding the Stigma Around Women and Addiction

Figures back up that men are more likely to suffer from addiction and die because of it, but it is also true that substance abuse among women is underreported and not focused on. Drug-related deaths in women are rising, jumping from 55.8 deaths per million to 57.1 deaths per million over a 12-month period.

Stigma is at the core of women not seeking help. Of all the women who seek help, many don’t. We need to gain a better understanding of why women hide addiction, what the consequences of stigma can be and what can be done to help women.

The Reality of Stigma in Women’s Addiction

Stigma is the negative view of something or a group of people based on what they have done. Stigma is commonplace in society, and addiction is particularly stigmatised by people who do not suffer from it.

Women are disproportionately affected by stigma. A survey performed by We Are With You, a leading addiction charity, found that 89% of other organisations agreed that women face more barriers than men when it comes to accessing treatment.

Stigma is one of the main reasons. Overcoming internal and external stigma around women and addiction is key to encouraging more widespread recovery and improving treatment outcomes.

Why are Women Stigmatised for Addiction?

Women who break societal expectations, acting outside their role as caregivers, being the bedrock of a family unit or the newer idea of the female professional, are seen as immoral and deviant. Women are also more likely to experience internalised judgment and stigma from other women than men are, too.

This view that addiction is more of a choice for women, along with expectations of women being almost more responsible for their actions than men are, can lead to shame and secrecy around it. With drug addiction, women are more likely to take prescription drugs, and this could be seen as a more avoidable addiction. In society’s eyes, it could be argued that women are making a choice, whereas men are fighting their demons.

Cultural and media depictions of addiction also contribute to it. People with addiction are demonised in the press. For example, a prominent woman figure such as Amy Winehouse was offered little sympathy when actively struggling with addiction – referred to as derogatory names often in tabloids.

The Consequences of Stigma on Women’s Recovery

Stigma prevents women from seeking treatment because they believe they will be judged. Internally, they also judge themselves – comparing themselves to other women and feeling like they have failed somehow.

These feelings of shame can result in social isolation and withdrawal from others as they fear what will be thought about them. This can exacerbate mental health conditions and, if they are in recovery, increase the chance of relapsing.

Stigma will affect self-esteem, souring their opinion of themselves and others. It can lead to them feeling inadequate as a mother, worried that they will lose their job, children and relationships. In some cases, this is a real possibility, as children can be taken away if the mother is deemed unsuitable.

Women’s Addiction vs. Men’s Addiction: A Double Standard

When males drink alcohol to excess, it is more accepted and seen as men just being men. Research suggests that women are both more likely to be looked down upon and feel a great deal of shame, and also upheld to higher standards – While men cut loose and have fun, women should be holding down the fort and being responsible.

When it comes to women and addiction, they are more likely to be seen as failures compared to men. Especially if they have children, they are held to a higher standard, and it is seen as more their fault and the result of some moral failing – rather than addiction being a disease.

A study in 2024 found that women feel stigmatised and shamed when seeking treatment. There is more chance of them being viewed as a lying drug addict, and they feel that they always have to prove themselves. Also, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, women are less likely to receive adequate treatment.

How to Challenge the Stigma Around Women and Addiction

Improving how accessible addiction treatment is for women can only happen if the status quo is challenged. Luckily, more people are accepting that changes need to be made, and there are many ways to challenge the stigma around women and addiction.

With changed hearts and minds, the treatment process can improve so that more women can be helped.

Education and Awareness

Educating more people on addiction and how women’s experiences inform their addiction will go a long way. With more knowledge, people become more understanding.

Awareness is essential, too, and the media can help by presenting addiction in a more authentic and more compassionate light and not condemning it. Well-known figures also being open about their experiences, such as Demi Lovato, can help raise awareness about women and addiction.

Encouraging Open Conversations

Having open and frank conversations removes the mystique of addiction. Treating and talking about it as a medical condition rather than a moral failing will help women be more willing to open up about their experiences.

Empowering Women in Recovery

Creating spaces for women is vital. Gendered programmes, women-only support groups, and peer advocacy will help women know they are being listened to and are being effectively helped. With others who know well about the experience of being a woman with an addiction, other women will feel empowered to engage in treatment and feel safe when they do so.

The Role of Rehabilitation Centres in Supporting Women

The most significant barriers against addiction support for women are stigma and safety.

Rehab needs to be a place of safety for all, where anyone can focus solely on their recovery. At Asana Lodge, we provide a non-judgemental and safe environment for women to get the support they need.

With trauma-informed care, childcare support and female-focused therapies, we aim to help women with the unique challenges they face. Women-only spaces encourage female addiction recovery as it results in them engaging in treatment. In these environments, women are freer to be open about their struggles without men around and feel empowered to improve themselves.

It’s important to understand that there are many treatments available. Recovery is possible without shame hanging over you; just ensure you find the support that suits you the right way.

Get Addiction Recovery Support Now

Stigma exists around women and addiction, preventing many from receiving the help they need. Shame and self-judgement result in worsening addiction issues, and even when in treatment, women are often made to feel unsafe or not properly treated.

To overcome this issue, it’s important to remember that addiction is a medical condition, not a character flaw.

If you are a woman and need help, then you should take that step. Get the support you need and challenge the stigma in your communities.

We at Asana Lodge offer rehabilitation, and you can start your journey with us today. Call us at 01908 489 421 to get started.