How are women in Indiana coping with the challenges of drug and alcohol addiction?
Alcohol and tobacco remain the most commonly used substances in the state, affecting individuals of all genders and age groups. Despite being legal and age-restricted, their accessibility often enables usage among youth as young as 12, contributing to widespread consumption and related issues.
From a gender-specific perspective, data from America’s Health Rankings highlights that Indiana women experience elevated rates of smoking and frequent episodes of mental distress compared to national averages.
Women and Tobacco Use in Indiana
Tobacco use, particularly cigarette smoking, is linked to a host of health complications. Beyond its immediate and unpleasant effects, regular tobacco use significantly increases the risk of chronic illnesses such as COPD, emphysema, chronic bronchitis, various cancers, heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes.
This issue also impacts expectant mothers. According to Indiana University’s Center for Health Policy, approximately 15% of women in Indiana use tobacco during pregnancy. Smoking among women can lead to challenges with conception, an increased risk of miscarriage, complications during pregnancy, and stillbirth.
Infants born to mothers who smoke are often premature, underweight, and vulnerable to various health issues. They face an elevated risk of tissue damage in the brain and lungs and are more susceptible to the dangers of second-hand smoke post-birth.
The CDC reports that babies born to smoking mothers are three times more likely to die from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) compared to those born to non-smoking mothers.
Early-life factors heavily influence substance abuse and addiction trends. These include the environment in which an individual grows up, the availability of substances, weak family support, substance use within the family or peer groups, and untreated mental health conditions. The widespread availability of alcohol and tobacco in Indiana exacerbates these issues.
Trauma, mental distress, and untreated mental health challenges increase the likelihood of women turning to substances such as alcohol and tobacco. Recognizing this, Indiana has prioritized addressing smoking during pregnancy as a key focus for substance abuse prevention.
For women in Indiana grappling with addiction or mental health challenges, support is available. Our Indianapolis rehab center is committed to providing compassionate care and assistance.
Why Choose Sunrise Recovery?
Sunrise Recovery stands out for its commitment to compassionate, evidence-based care. With a focus on personalized treatment plans, we support women at every stage of their recovery.
Our experienced medical team is equipped to address the unique challenges women face, including those related to pregnancy and co-occurring disorders.
By integrating medical care, counseling, and social support, Sunrise offers a comprehensive solution for tobacco addiction.
Recap
Tobacco addiction remains a significant challenge for women in Indiana, with widespread health implications for individuals and families. The risks of smoking, particularly during pregnancy, underscore the importance of targeted interventions like Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT).
Programs such as Sunrise Recovery provide essential support, combining medical expertise with holistic care to help women overcome addiction and achieve lasting recovery.
Next Steps
For women struggling with tobacco addiction, seeking professional help is a vital first step. Reach out to Sunrise Recovery to learn more about our comprehensive treatment options, including Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) and counseling services.
Together, we can create a healthier future for Indiana’s women and their families.
