As compared to their male counterparts, women with substance use disorders have more mental disorders and lower self-esteem. Approximately one quarter of US residents are likely to have some anxiety disorder during their lifetime and the prevalence is higher among women than men. In addition, estimates of lifetime prevalence for major depression range from 10-25% for women and half that for men (Kessler et al. 1994). Data from the National Comorbidity Survey indicate that about half (41-65%) of individuals with a substance use disorder (SUD) have an affective or anxiety disorder at some time in their lives (Kessler et al. 1996b). The most commonly occurring mental health disorders with women are: depression, anxiety, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and eating disorders.
This course will provide students with an advanced understanding of women’s addiction, specifically addressing the above listed co-occurring disorders as well as other issues such as trauma and domestic violence. Participants will also develop knowledge in the following areas: women’s addiction across the life span; model program components for women’s co-occurring services; and the importance of gender-specific programming to address special issues facing women (i.e., family relationships, self-esteem, trauma and domestic violence).
