What Causes Addiction in Men?
When scientists first began to study addiction in men, the common belief was that those with an addiction were inherently flawed and lacked the drive to stop.
This belief created a plethora of misconceptions about addiction and helped to shaped society’s perception of someone who struggles with substance abuse. From this early view, today’s common stigmas surrounding addiction were formed.
Despite the science now showing that alcoholism and addiction are chronic brain diseases, many people still have a false idea that those who struggle with addiction are just weak willed and see it as a failure on behalf of the individual. We need to combat this stigma by understanding the facts surrounding addiction in men, risk factors, signs, symptoms, and treatment options for men in need of healing.
Prevalence of Addiction in Men vs Women
Today, we know that men are, generally, more likely to abuse illicit drugs than women.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) men are far more likely than women to use illicit drugs of all types. This includes drugs like marijuana, cocaine, and heroin, but it also includes alcohol. While we can’t be sure exactly why men are at a higher risk for substance abuse, there are a number of theories to help us understand potential risk factors.
Some experts suggest that our societal view on masculinity is one possible contributing factor. Men are often pressured to not appear weak. This means they may be less likely to seek out alternatives like therapy or counseling for the issues causing them to self-medicate with substances. We also know that men are often more likely to engage in risk-taking behavior than women. This is another reason why men may be at a higher risk for substance abuse.
Risk Factors for Addiction in Men
While some risk factors for addiction are the same for both men and women, such as genetics, others differ in significant ways.
In order to identify those that are at risk of developing addiction, it is important to recognize these gender differences.
Family History
Family history is the biggest predictor of someone having an issue with substance abuse. This is for two main reasons – genetics and family function. Men who grow up in dysfunctional environments, experience conflict at home, or have a parent struggling with substance abuse are considered to be at a higher risk of using themselves. Genetics also plays a major role when it comes to family-related risk factors. The NIDA reports that research has identified numerous genes, and gene variations, that are linked to the addictive process.
Poverty
We know that addiction doesn’t discriminate based on socioeconomic status. However, a man with a stable income is less likely to struggle with substance abuse versus someone without financial security. Financial stress is one of the harshest stressors someone can face, for both men and women. That being said, old ideas behind gender roles make this an even greater risk factor for men. Men are commonly thought of as household providers, and the inability to provide can push them to cope with that stress through substance abuse.
Peer Influence
For men, substance abuse tends to start earlier and involves a higher frequency of abuse. The Monitoring The Future Survey revealed that 9% of male high school seniors in the study reported daily marijuana use, compared to the 4% of females. Males are also more likely to be introduced to drugs by their peer group. While men have higher rates of substance abuse, there is more shame and stigma surrounding addiction in women. Women are more likely to hide their substance abuse for fear of being judged. This might be why men are more likely to fall into peer pressure at a young age – less judgment.
History of Mental Illness
As we mentioned before, men are less likely to seek therapy or counseling than women. Again, this can be attributed to the old idea that men should be “strong”, and somehow, asking for help is perceived as weak. This leaves many men feeling like they have to solve mental health issues on their own. Unfortunately, drugs and alcohol are a common method people choose to self-medicate. Men can easily feel isolated in their personal struggles, as they are less likely to report a mental health issue to family and friends.
Signs of Addiction to Watch Out For
Men and women who are struggling with addiction both go to great lengths to conceal their addiction from their friends, family and loved ones.
That being said, there are several signs and symptoms of addiction that can be spotted early on if you know what to look for. This is important because the sooner someone receives treatment for their addiction, the more likely they are to recover and be successful, happy, and healthy. Some signs of addiction in men to look out for include:
Disconnect From Life, Family, and Friends
Often, as someone gets pulled into addiction they simultaneously detach from the things they know and love. They might feel like a burden, or that they can’t be helped. Due to the social stigma surrounding substance abuse, men often carry shame or guilt. They may avoid those closest to them out of fear of disappointing them.
A Change in Physical Appearance
Someone in active addiction may show signs of significant weight gain, or loss. You might notice that their clothes no longer fit the same. They might have dilated pupils or red eyes, body odor due to lack of hygiene, repetitive speech patterns, or appear pale and unnourished.
The 3 C’s of Addiction – Control, Craving, and Continued Use
Men in addiction will experience a loss of control over the frequency of their use. You’ll notice they have a craving, or compulsion to use. Lastly, they’ll continue to use even though it’s having negative impacts on their lives and those around them.
If you are considering treatment for yourself or a loved one, call us today.
Possible Symptoms of Addiction in Men
Certain symptoms exhibited by someone struggling with addiction are unique to the substance they are using.
For example, slurred speech may be a sign of alcoholism but that symptoms may not be present in someone who is using cocaine. If you are concerned that your loved on is struggling with addiction, below are some possible signs to be aware of. It may also make sense to consult with a professional. If you suspect an issue, it is likely that something is going on with your loved one whether it be addiction or something else.
Symptoms of Alcohol Abuse in Men
- Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol daily, or nearly every day.
- Hiding drinking or alcohol, or drinking alone.
- Driving while intoxicated.
- Issues at work such as drinking on the job.
- Coming home late frequently.
- Inability to have just one or two drinks.
- Strong physical cravings for alcohol, or bad mood when they can’t access alcohol.
- Nausea, anxiety, and physical issues after quitting.
Symptoms of Marijuana Dependence in Men
- Smoking marijuana daily or multiple times a day.
- Showing signs of anxiety of frustration when he can’t smoke.
- Extremely relaxed behavior or signs of cognitive impairment.
- Replacing anti-anxiety medication for marijuana.
Symptoms of Heroin Addiction in Men
- Unconsciousness or inability to wake up.
- Intense feelings of happiness that alternate with depression.
- Stomach problems, vomiting, diarrhea, or “the chills.”
- Marks on the skin from injections.
- Nervousness and anxiety when they cannot access the drug.
- Detaching from family and friends.
In addition to physical cravings, someone with an addiction issue will also spend a tremendous amount of time thinking about their drug of choice. These thoughts become a compulsion and impossible to control, which leads to drug-seeking behavior that can sometimes be criminal.
Feelings of depression, sadness, anxiety, despair, and the like are often at the root of substance abuse. The substance might temporarily mask these feelings, but they return once the high wears off, creating a vicious circle of drug abuse.
Taking a substance will temporarily stop the cravings and compulsion for it, but soon the same feelings return. In time, it takes more and more of the same substance to achieve the same effect it once had.
People addicted to drugs and alcohol may feel like they have no control over their drug use. Refraining from using or stopping seems to be an impossibility for them. The substance controls them, rather than the other way around.
Someone addicted to drugs or alcohol will continue to seek them out even if their addiction has made them lose friends, family, spouses, and jobs. Drug-seeking behavior can even lead to diseases such as hepatitis and HIV/AIDS.
Treatment Options for Addiction in Men
Addiction treatment is usually specific to the individual and their particular substance abuse history.
There is no “one option” that works for everyone. What we do know is that men and women experience addiction differently, so gender-specific treatment options are not uncommon. There are different levels of care, some that inpatient and others that are outpatient. Which program is best for an individual depends on how much their addiction has progressed, how much they are using, and what substances.
Regardless of the level of care, there are certain clinical treatments that have proven to be highly effective for those who are struggling with addiction. Some or all elements of these therapies should be utilized as part of an effective treatment program for addiction in men. These proven treatment modalities include:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is a valuable tool for the treatment of addiction in men. There are numerous studies that indicate CBT leads to significant improvement in the functioning and overall quality of everyday life. CBT treatment attempts to change harmful thinking patterns and can be helpful in reversing unhelpful patterns of thinking in those seeking addiction treatment.
Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT)
REBT is a short-term form of psychotherapy. This therapy can assist patients by identifying self-degrading thoughts and then challenging the way the patients rationalize those feelings. Then, presenting the patient with healthier, higher-functioning beliefs.
Contingency Management (CM)
CM is a type of behavioral therapy that is based on a reward system. Patients are rewarded for proof of positive change such as abstaining from drugs or alcohol. CM can be highly effective for boosting treatment retention.
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
DBT assists patients in finding the motivation to change aspects of their life that are within their reach to change. Many people in addiction fear positive change because they feel they aren’t worthy. The DBT framework aims to improve self-confidence and functional behaviors for real-life situations.
In addition to physical cravings, someone with an addiction issue will also spend a tremendous amount of time thinking about their drug of choice. These thoughts become a compulsion and impossible to control, which leads to drug-seeking behavior that can sometimes be criminal.
Feelings of depression, sadness, anxiety, despair, and the like are often at the root of substance abuse. The substance might temporarily mask these feelings, but they return once the high wears off, creating a vicious circle of drug abuse.
Taking a substance will temporarily stop the cravings and compulsion for it, but soon the same feelings return. In time, it takes more and more of the same substance to achieve the same effect it once had.
People addicted to drugs and alcohol may feel like they have no control over their drug use. Refraining from using or stopping seems to be an impossibility for them. The substance controls them, rather than the other way around.
Someone addicted to drugs or alcohol will continue to seek them out even if their addiction has made them lose friends, family, spouses, and jobs. Drug-seeking behavior can even lead to diseases such as hepatitis and HIV/AIDS.
Addiction Treatment for Men at Nexus Recovery
At Nexus Recovery, we believe that treatment for men should incorporate their specific psychological, physiological, and emotional needs.
We are a gender-responsive program, meaning we incorporate both gender-specific and mixed programming into our clients treatment schedules. Nexus Recovery incorporates both CBT and DBT in our treatment program in addition to a plethora of other evidence-based treatment modalities. Our men’s program has a holistic approach that acknowledges the challenges and experiences unique to men. With a focus on staying active and connecting to nature, you or your loved one can feel confident that you’re in good hands.
Contact one of our recovery advisors today for a free and confidential consultation.
In addition to physical cravings, someone with an addiction issue will also spend a tremendous amount of time thinking about their drug of choice. These thoughts become a compulsion and impossible to control, which leads to drug-seeking behavior that can sometimes be criminal.
Feelings of depression, sadness, anxiety, despair, and the like are often at the root of substance abuse. The substance might temporarily mask these feelings, but they return once the high wears off, creating a vicious circle of drug abuse.
Taking a substance will temporarily stop the cravings and compulsion for it, but soon the same feelings return. In time, it takes more and more of the same substance to achieve the same effect it once had.
People addicted to drugs and alcohol may feel like they have no control over their drug use. Refraining from using or stopping seems to be an impossibility for them. The substance controls them, rather than the other way around.
Someone addicted to drugs or alcohol will continue to seek them out even if their addiction has made them lose friends, family, spouses, and jobs. Drug-seeking behavior can even lead to diseases such as hepatitis and HIV/AIDS.
If you or a loved one are suffering from alcohol or drug addiction, we’re here to help. Contact us today and speak with one of our trusted recovery advisors.
