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"Looking For The Water From A Deeper Well:" Women And Addictions

By: Frank J. Schwoeri, Ph.D.
Catherine Ambrose, MSS, LCSW

Alcohol and drug problems are the most common type of psychological problem in the United States. These problems are most common in men, but women ware a substantial minority: about one in four alcoholics are women, and 18% of women will have a problem with drugs or drinking at some time in their lives. Because women metabolize alcohol differently than men, drinking causes more problems sooner for women than for men. Women become alcohol dependent more quickly and develop liver disease, heart problems, and brain impairment sooner than men. So it is clear that a woman who can "hold her liquor like a man" is in big trouble.

The good news is that women tend to do well in treatment, especially when it is gender-sensitive and appropriate. At TEMENOS, we emphasize an egalitarian relationship between therapist and patient that fosters independence, assertiveness, and empowerment. We actively address both psychological and addiction problems, focusing first on how to stop or reduce the harm of using/drinking, and then, within an atmosphere of safety and empowerment, we address other issues to prevent relapse.

There are five main areas of vulnerability to relapse: problems in handling strong emotions, poor self-care, low self-esteem, difficult relationships, and trauma/abuse issues. A woman is likely to have been using alcohol or drugs as a way of managing these issues. Our approach at TEMENOS is to help a recovering woman avoid relapse by helping her with these specific areas. We support her in improving her ability to handle feelings, improving self-care and self-esteem, working out relationship problems, and addressing problems related to trauma and abuse.

Finally, we believe recovery from addiction offers an opportunity for spiritual growth. We believe that addicts and alcoholics are, in the words of the David Olney/EmmyLou Harris song, "looking for the water from a deeper well." Addiction can be an expression of longing for something beyond the self. Recovering often involves making amends, forgiveness, letting go of anger and resentment, and finding deeper meaning in one's life, and we believe these are inherently spiritual endeavors. Many find the spirituality of the 12-step programs to be very helpful; others choose to find their own way. Our role is to offer supports, tools, and signposts for finding your own path.

The TEMENOS staff is experienced in treatment addictions. We are also experienced in treating eating disorders, another common and often co-occurring problems for women. We are all licensed and credentialed professionals. Because we are a group private practice and not a clinic or program, you can be assured of the highest level of privacy confidentiality, and professionalism. If you or someone you care about is struggling with an addiction or eating disorder, the time to seek help is now.

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