Psychosocial adversities in women substance dependence: A case report

Abstract

Until recently, psychoactive substance use perceived as a male phenomenon. Although men out-rate woman in prevalence of substance use, women are at greater risk for its adverse effects. Gender status influence many aspects of substance use/dependence. Women substance use associated with psychiatric co-morbidity especially depression and anxiety disorder, while men substance use is related with more externalizing spectrum disorders such as antisocial personality. Many studies demonstrated that women suffer substantially higher health complications and psychosocial adversities related to substance dependence. Psychosocial factors influencing to the initiation, continuation and outcome of substance use in women.