Dr. Shelly Greenfield, a prominent addiction psychiatrist and Harvard Medical School professor, recently gave a thought-provoking presentation on gender differences in substance use. She explored how these differences impact the effectiveness of treatment. Her insights revealed significant gender disparities in substance use, focusing on both prevalence and progression. She stressed the need for customised, evidence-based approaches to effectively address these challenges.

Drawing on research, including a large-scale survey of women aged 18 to 70 in the United States, Dr. Greenfield shared how physiological, behavioural, and societal factors intersect to create these gender disparities. She highlighted the unique “telescoping” trajectory many women experience with alcohol use disorders. Women often transition more quickly from casual use to dependency compared to men. This rapid progression, she noted, has physiological causes, necessitating treatments tailored to women’s specific substance use needs.

Dr. Greenfield also outlined the elevated risks women face with substance use disorders. She emphasized the importance of gender-specific therapies to address these vulnerabilities. Central to her discussion was the Women’s Recovery Group (WRG), an evidence-based group therapy she developed. WRG provides a supportive space for women to address substance use challenges. It empowers them with proven strategies for recovery while fostering a sense of community.

Excitingly, the presentation also explored her latest research on adapting WRG for digital platforms. This innovation could dramatically increase access to effective therapeutic interventions. By making support more widely available, digital WRG has the potential to reach women who might otherwise lack resources. Such advancements illustrate the importance of prevention and highlight the path toward sustainable, substance-free living.

Dr. Greenfield has built a career at the intersection of clinical practice, research, and education. She remains a leading figure in addressing critical gender differences in substance use. Her work equips the medical community with the tools to intervene effectively and strive for a future free from substance dependencies.

This vital work not only underscores the urgency of addressing the root causes of substance use but also calls for sweeping systemic changes. It advocates for healthier, more equitable communities where every individual can thrive.

Source: Mailchi