Women and Substance Use: An Overview for Nurses

Abstract

Substance use is a major health concern among women, as approximately 15.8 million have used an illicit drug in the past year. Another 4.3 million have misused prescription drugs. Men are more likely to engage in illicit drug use than women, however, the gender gap is narrowing. The consequences of substance abuse not only negatively impact women, but may affect the cognitive and physical abilities of their children. For methodology, electronic searches were conducted using scholarly databases with various combinations of keywords related to women, substance abuse, addiction, nursing care, pregnancy, and gender difference. Research trends indicate that women often present with gender-specific needs, including physiologically, socially, and economically. This article gives an overview of some gender differences between men and women and how they influence treatment and outcomes for women. It also discusses special considerations for nurses caring for women with substance use disorders.

A Comparison of Psychological Distress and Coping Styles among Physicians and Nurses in a COVID-19 Referral Hospital in Manila: A Cross-sectional Study

“…As gender roles become less traditional, such as the inclusion of the female sex in the workforce, the rate of substance disorders among women likewise is beginning to approach that of males. 32 With regards the use of medications such as anti-depressants, according to the American Psychological Association, women (16.5%) are twice as likely as men (8.6%) to take anti-depressants to improve their general well-being. 33 Social support as a coping strategy was used more by the male versus female healthcare providers in the study.…”