Rising Numbers Of Women Seeking Treatment For Alcohol Addiction

In recent years, there has been a notable shift in the landscape of alcohol addiction services, particularly concerning the increasing number of women seeking assistance for their struggles with alcoholism. 

Over the course of the last five years, data has revealed a remarkable surge in women reaching out for help with addiction-related issues, with a notable focus on alcoholism. Statistics show a 16% increase in the number of women entering treatment for alcohol addiction across the UK during this period. Delamere, a private rehab clinic in Cheshire, have corroborated this trend with their own records, showcasing a substantial growth in the proportion of women seeking addiction help from 2020 to 2023, with figures rising from 28% to nearly 37% within just three years.

% of female guests in treatment at Delamere

2020 – 28%

2021 – 28.5%

2022 – 34.5%

2023 – 36.9%

Correlating Trends Over The Years

There is a clear growing urgency to address alcohol addiction among women. Notably, in 2023, a significant proportion of women surveyed (44%), expressed a belief that alcohol is ‘very addictive,’ challenging historical beliefs that alcohol addiction is relatively rare among women.

Comparative reports between 2018 and 2022 further highlight this trend, revealing a 12% increase in the number of women undergoing addiction treatment across the UK, with a notable 16% rise specifically in those seeking alcohol addiction services. The latest addiction census reinforces these findings, indicating that women are predominantly seeking rehabilitation services for opiate (27.4%) and alcohol (40.7%) related issues.

While men continue to dominate the demographic seeking rehabilitation services, Delamere’s admission data paints a picture of a steady rise in women entering addiction treatment over the past three years, growing from 28% to 36.9%. These figures reflect a significant shift in perception, signalling a growing recognition of the importance of seeking professional help for addiction-related struggles among women. For those seeking to cleanse their bodies from the harmful effects of alcohol, products like Detoxify Mega Clean can help to facilitate this process alongside professional treatment.

Opinions From An Expert

Martin Preston, CEO and Founder of Delamere has reflected on these trends, emphasising the need to address lingering stigmas surrounding women and addiction. He highlights the various barriers that have historically hindered women from seeking treatment, including childcare responsibilities, fears of judgement, and societal shame. However, he expresses optimism in the continuous rise of women seeking treatment over the past five years, attributing it to the gradual dismantling of societal stigmas surrounding addiction.

“There are many reasons why women historically have been reluctant to seek treatment for addiction-related struggles, from childcare issues, and even fears that their children would be taken away, to shame around the fact they have become dependent on alcohol or suffered trauma or abuse. Women struggling with alcoholism has in the past perhaps been viewed by some in a more judgmental way, causing them to hide their drinking and avoid seeking help. 

To see this continuous rise in women entering into treatment over the last five years is extremely promising. Anyone can be affected by addiction, no matter their gender, and so women have almost certainly always been affected. Fortunately, the societal stigmas surrounding women and alcohol or substance abuse are slowly dissipating as addiction has become rightly recognised as a healthcare issue and a mental health disorder. This has led to less shame associated with addiction and thankfully, more people, particularly women, are willing to reach out for help.

Stigmas and the issues associated with entering treatment for women do still very much exist however and so the number of women seeking treatment in comparison to the number of women who need or want to but feel they can’t, is most likely significantly different. If you, or someone you care for, require addiction treatment, it is important to seek professional help as soon as possible. 

At Delamere, we provide first-class addiction treatments within our discreet, luxury purpose-built facility where all guests, regardless of gender, age, or anything else are welcomed compassionately, without shame or judgement, to heal and grow from their addictions.”

The rising trend of women seeking help for alcohol addiction signifies a significant societal shift in perceptions and attitudes towards addiction. By addressing stigmas and barriers to treatment, and providing accessible and compassionate support, we can continue to empower individuals, regardless of gender, to overcome addiction and lead fulfilling lives of recovery.

Understanding the Role and Mission of Alcohol Rehab Clinics in Recovery

An alcohol rehab clinic is a specialised facility dedicated to helping individuals overcome alcohol addiction and regain control of their lives. These clinics offer a structured and supportive environment where individuals receive comprehensive treatment and therapy tailored to address the physical, psychological, and emotional aspects of alcohol dependency. Programs typically include medically supervised detoxification, individual and group counselling, behavioural therapy, and relapse prevention strategies. In addition to addressing addiction, alcohol rehab clinics often provide education on the effects of alcohol abuse and support for co-occurring mental health disorders. The ultimate goal of alcohol rehab clinics is to assist individuals in achieving sobriety, developing coping skills, and fostering long-term recovery. By offering personalised care and guidance, these clinics empower individuals to break free from the cycle of addiction and lead fulfilling, alcohol-free lives.