Detox for Men

As a man, you may experience substance use differently than women, and these differences can influence the detox process. Social and psychological factors, withdrawal symptoms, and level of social support can all contribute to the experience of quitting alcohol or drug use. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the gender-based barriers for men seeking detox and introduce a way to take the first step in recovery.

The need for alcohol and drug detox for men is related to factors ranging from stress from work demands and family obligations to co-occurring mental health disorders and genetic predisposition to substance use disorders (SUD). Men with an SUD often face barriers to treatment related to their reluctance to speak openly about their challenges and the belief that seeking help is a weakness. At Restored Path, men’s drug detox introduces healthy coping strategies, the opportunity to learn to create a recovery community with other men, and a plan for seamless continuing care once the detox process ends.

Five Factors Contributing to a Need for Detox Among Men

Several factors can lead to the need for alcohol or drug detox for men. The following list spotlights a handful of those factors most commonly shared by men across different age groups.

Genetic Predisposition: Addiction risk is heavily influenced by genetic factors. If a man comes from a family of substance users, he may have a higher genetic predisposition to addiction.

Stress and Coping Mechanisms: Distress from job, relationships, or other life events might cause some men to turn to drink or drugs to cope. First responders and military personnel, for example, may be especially vulnerable to substance use due to continuous and profound levels of stress on the job.

Peer Influence: Social circles and peer pressure can have a significant impact on substance use. Men who socialize with friends or coworkers who use drugs or alcohol are more likely to engage in similar behavior.

Mental Health Issues: Co-occurring mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can all lead to substance use since people may self-medicate to relieve the discomfort of symptoms.

Trauma and Childhood Adversity: Childhood trauma, abuse, or neglect can enhance one’s chances of being addicted as an adult. Men who have been through harrowing circumstances may turn to narcotics to numb their emotional distress tied to memories of trauma or adverse childhood experiences.

Barriers to Detox for Men

Men who need to detox from alcohol or drugs face a number of challenges. Societal expectations of self-reliance and stoicism frequently deter men from acknowledging their addiction or taking steps to get help. This can result in a reluctance to discuss their difficulties openly and reinforce the perception that admitting vulnerability is a sign of weakness. Furthermore, men may be concerned about the potential consequences of substance use on their careers and their reputation among peers. Factors such as limited healthcare access, financial restraints, or concerns about taking time off work can all make it difficult to begin the process of men’s drug detox.

Signs of Alcohol Use in Men

1. Your tolerance for the substance increases.
2. You experience frequent cravings.
3. You neglect responsibilities at work and home.
4. You isolate yourself socially.
5. You experience memory blackouts.
6. Your risk-taking behavior increases.
7. You experience mood swings often.
8. You begin to notice physical health issues.
9. You spend more time recovering from drinking.
10. You fail to cut down your substance use even when trying.

Gender Differences in Treatment for Men

Gender differences influence what is needed for detox and treatment of substance use disorders in men. Common substances of choice among men include a higher prevalence of alcohol and illicit drug use and the use of higher amounts of substances, in general. Also, men are more likely to participate in riskier activities when using, resulting in greater demands for detox and treatment tied to legal issues and medical complications. Because of the shame associated with vulnerability and confessing addiction, socially imposed gender standards may influence men’s unwillingness to seek help. Men are less likely to want to share openly in front of peers, a behavior that could inhibit their ability to find support, create healthy new connections, and add an important form of accountability to their recovery journey.

Finding Help for Men at Restored Path

Restored Path Detox provides nonjudgmental men’s drug detox services in order to erase stigma and offer a safe environment in which you can begin your healing journey to recovery. A team comprised of highly qualified addiction specialists addresses men’s deeply rooted difficulties and views about masculinity, paving the way for emotional, mental, and spiritual fulfillment in sobriety. Restored Path can help you feel more at ease with other men and embrace a healthier life free of outdated social expectations and addiction.

Healing occurs in an environment where you can experience equality, support, and trust, as well as guidance in how to replace negative views and behavior patterns with constructive coping techniques. Along with traditional talk therapy, which encourages emotional exploration and discussion, clinical groups and individual therapies strive to uncover and transform harmful behavior patterns and mental processes, adjust responses to life challenges, and cultivate the strengths needed to overcome addiction. Before you finish the program, you will be equipped with a sustainable plan for seamless continuing care.

 

Restored Path Detox is DFW’s premier location for sophisticated medical detox. Conveniently located in Frisco, we provide a safe sanctuary for healing that is also a state-of-the-art detoxification facility for a wide range of substances. Our compassionate physicians and therapists want you to get well and are committed to removing any existing barriers to your care. Restored Path’s board-certified medical professionals and highly qualified nursing team have extensive critical care experience and are available to monitor your detox program 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

If you or a loved one are struggling with drug or alcohol use, call us today and take your first step towards recovery: 469-827-0000.