Treatment needs of alcohol-dependent women.

Abstract

Research has suggested specific features of alcohol-dependent women in comparison with men. The women usually display: (1) solitary drinking; (2) neurotic and family problems; (3) risk of early health impairment; and (4) abuse of other drugs. These factors should be taken into account in therapy. The in-patient program described is based on the principles of a therapeutic community and systems theory. It includes group and family therapy, education, relaxation training, yoga, a therapeutic club for former in-patients, and use of drugs such as disulfiran. Alcohol-dependence in women has become a growing problem. Adequate therapy is needed, but prevention is even more important.