< Person In Recovery

Men-Only Addiction Treatment

Although addiction is a problem for both men and women, the way they experience it, as well as how they deal with it, can differ vastly. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, men are more likely to use a variety of illicit drugs compared to women, and they often start doing so early in life. In addition to using drugs, men are also more susceptible to developing addiction and treatment compared to women.

And the differences don’t end there:

  • More than half of men struggling with addiction also have another co-occurring mental illness, such as depression, bipolar disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. Instead of seeking treatment, men will often turn to drugs and exacerbate the problem.

  • Men are often not as comfortable talking about emotions as women are, which can cause some men to feel isolated.

  • Men and women often relapse for different reasons.

  • Men are at a greater risk of developing serious medical problems, such as organ failure, depression, cirrhosis, and suicide, as a result of their addiction.

  • More men are incarcerated for drug-related charges than women.

  • Men who abuse drugs can become emotionally or physically abusive toward people around them, including their spouses and children.

  • Men often have better access and more opportunities to use drugs than do women.

How Biological Differences Between Genders Affect Addiction

The physical effects of drugs can also be felt differently between genders. Women tend to have less water content than men do, meaning drugs ingested by women will linger in their systems for longer periods. Studies have shown drugs stimulate brain activity among men and women differently—for women, hormones, physicality, even the menstrual cycle can change the effect of a drug. The motivation to use drugs is also divided along these gender lines. For men, drug use stems from conforming to gender stereotypes that allude to risk-taking. They also tend to abuse drugs in an effort to boost their performance at work, enhance their sex lives, or to just have a good time. Women, on the other hand, tend to use drugs as an emotional escape, or for social reasons.

Men and Domestic Violence

Although there is little to no evidence that definitively links substance abuse to domestic violence, studies have found that a large number of people who abuse their partners also engage in substance abuse.

It is estimated that 25 to 50 percent of men who have engaged in domestic violence (including emotional, psychological, sexual, or physical abuse) suffer from some form of substance abuse issues. According to the American Society of Addiction Medicine, abusers are more likely to be involved in domestic violence incidents on days of heavy substance use. However while substance abuse may not directly cause domestic violence, substance abuse increases the likelihood of violence for someone prone to abusive behavior, as drugs and alcohol can lower their inhibitions.

Men and Sexual Abuse

On the other hand, sexual abuse and drug abuse do have a cause and effect relationship. Studies have shown a strong correlation between sexual abuse and addictive behaviors. Although it is more prevalent in women, one in 33 American men have experienced sexual abuse in their life. Men and women with a history of sexual abuse were found to be twice as likely to develop drug addiction compared to those not sexually abused. Additionally, victims of sexual abuse are more likely to suffer from depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. Many victims turn to drugs to cope with the trauma of abuse as well as the feelings of isolation and loneliness that come after having suffered abuse.

Men-Only Rehab Centers

At a men-only rehab centers, patients are given treatment that is catered specifically with the male experience of addiction in mind; taking into account the unique challenges and social pressure faced by men, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. An all-male setting not only eliminates romantic distraction with the opposite sex, but it also allows men to share their experiences and participate in their recovery without being judged based on traditional male stereotypes.

Male-Oriented Drug Treatment

For those who choose to seek treatment at a men-only rehab center, there are many options out there and patients can choose the kind of care that best suits their individual needs. Different patients need different approaches to rehab.

Some patients may find that they need round the clock care and support in a controlled environment in order to overcome their addiction, in which case an inpatient facility would be most useful. At an inpatient facility, also known as residential treatment, a patient is required to check-in for long-term or short-term treatment.

However, many patients have obligations, such as family or work, that preclude them from being able to commit to full-time treatment. These patients may find an outpatient treatment to be less restrictive as it usually only requires the patient to be at the treatment center for 10 to 12 hours a week.

Among the main types of treatment programs available for men are:

Christian Rehab Centers

A faith-based rehab option that approaches addiction treatment with a focus on spirituality. This faith-based approach strives to help addicts overcome their addictions by building a stronger connection with God and a stronger spiritual foundation. Although this type of program may primarily serve a single religion; the patient does not have to be a member of that faith to participate in the program.
 

Secular or Non-Faith-Based Options

For people who are not spiritual or are not comfortable discussing religion, there are non-faith-based facilities available. Several factors can influence the success of an individual in rehabilitation. If a person is not comfortable in their surroundings, they may not be able to focus on therapy. In such cases, a secular center that focuses on scientific, evidence-based treatment may be a better option.

Luxury Rehab

On the more expensive end of the spectrum, luxury rehab centers incorporate recreational activities, a beautiful location, and fine-dining along with rehabilitation. Depending on an individual's preference, they can choose a rehab that best suits their interests. By seeking treatment at a luxury rehab center, patients can benefit by meeting like-minded people also in recovery.
 

How to Look for a Men-Only Rehab Center

Before looking for a rehab center, patients should first figure out what level of care and what kind of facility is covered by their insurance, granted they have insurance. The next step should be figuring out exactly what kind of treatment center–secular or non-secular, inpatient or outpatient–would best suit their needs. It is also a good idea to tour each facility before committing to one.

These are a few things to consider and keep in mind when choosing a rehab facility:

  • Does the program offer short-term or long-term treatment?

  • Does the treatment plan substitute one drug for another drug that may be just as addictive?

  • Does the center individualize treatments, or is it a one-size-fits-all approach?

  • What is the success rate and experience level of the staff?

  • How large is it? How many patients can it accommodate?

  • Does it view addiction as an ongoing illness that requires long-term care?

Addiction is an ongoing illness that requires a lifelong commitment to overcome. If you are a male who is seeking help, there are several men-only rehab options available that will give you the best shot at recovery. You don’t have to go the journey alone. Call the helpline today.

More Men-Only Addiction Treatment Programs
Hickory Wind Ranch California
 Hickory Wind Ranch
Hickory Wind Ranch provides a safe and nurturing environment for recovering addicts from all walks of life, geographies and crafts. Because each recovery journey is as important as one’s ultimate destination, our goal is to help every member of our community learn how to live a full and rich sober life and to achieve physical, emotional, and spiritual balance. Our communities will provide a tranquil yet supportive environment to begin sober living in Austin. We embrace and practice the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous and strive to create an environment rooted in love, service, grace, tolerance and community. Unlike most treatment centers, sober homes and half way houses, Hickory Wind Ranch in Austin, TX offers a comprehensive recovery program that helps our residents heal on all levels: mind, body and spirit. Hickory Wind Ranch is now owned and managed by Omega Recovery. (512) 759-8495 Learn More
Desert Hope Treatment Center Nevada
Desert Hope Treatment Center
Desert Hope Treatment Center’s name is a reflection of our mission: to be the sanctuary you need to leave drug abuse behind and find new hope for your future. As part of American Addiction Centers (AAC) portfolio of facilities through the United States, we treat both addiction and co-occurring disorders with the help of a dedicated, compassionate staff with years of experience in the treatment industry. Our location in Las Vegas, Nevada, makes it easy for people to access our life-changing programs and facilities. With an abundance of amenities and features ranging from hotel-style rooms and a private fitness center to biofeedback therapy and a music room with a grand piano, Desert Hope Treatment Center is a true recovery oasis in the Nevada desert. Come experience all the joy that a life lived in sobriety can bring to you. (866) 595-2381 Learn More
Crossroads Maine Maine
Crossroads Maine
Crossroads Maine is an addiction treatment and behavioral health treatment center that provides gender-responsive treatment programs that enable clients to recover from addiction in a safe, supportive environment and develop the skills and strategies necessary to support long-term recovery from substance use. 207-223-7657 Learn More
Westlake Recovery Texas
Westlake Recovery
Westlake Recovery is located in the heart of Downtown Austin. We are within walking distance to many major Austin hot spots- including Recovery Meeting groups. Our Luxury Sober Living home has an on-site manager as well as several full time employees dedicated solely to Sober Living in Austin and ensuring the environment is safe, nurturing and highly accountable. We also provide additional holistic health and wellness services such as a gym membership to the YMCA. monthly community events, monthly maid and cleaning services. There are daily yoga classes available at the YMCA. (512) 759-8495 Learn More