During March, we celebrated the contributions of women in our society. It is equally important to recognize the unique vulnerability of women with respect to addiction. Fatalities from drug overdoses remain the leading cause of death from injury in the United States, with deaths due to opioid overdoses continuing to rise. And more alarming is the fact that both nationwide and in Berks County, more women are succumbing to drug-related overdoses.
To understand how opioids impact women, we must first recognize that opioids are found in both legal prescription drugs such as Percocet, Vicodin, and Oxycodone, as well as illegal drugs such as heroin and fentanyl. The prescription opioid drugs are used to treat pain. Studies have found that women are more likely to have chronic pain and may be prescribed prescription painkillers at higher doses than men. Of greater concern is that women can become dependent more quickly than men.
Women may develop an addiction to opioids whether it is a prescription or a street drug. Since addiction is a disease of the brain, they cannot recognize how the drug is impacting their health and well-being. Friends and family members may be the first people to note a change in behavior but may not be aware of the cause.
Addiction in women is sadly a hidden disease. The symptoms may be subtle and attributed to a mental health concern or physical illness rather than an addiction. Concerned loved ones can be an important support for a woman challenged by an addiction. Be ready to take the first step. Help and hope is a telephone call away- call the 24/7 Drug and Alcohol Hotline at (484) 628-HOPE (4673).
Council On Chemical Abuse
50 N 5th St 5th Floor
Reading, PA 19601
