Substance abuse treatment in the United States faces numerous challenges, one of which is the gender gap that significantly affects women, especially those with opioid use disorder. This gap stems from unique challenges and stigmas that women encounter, particularly those who are also involved with the criminal legal system. Recent research led by a team from Penn State highlights these issues and suggests essential recommendations for improving treatment programs.

Unique Challenges for Women with Opioid Use Disorder

Women with opioid use disorder often face intersecting vulnerabilities that complicate their access to effective treatment. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 108,000 people died from drug overdoses in 2022, with 76% involving an opioid. Despite these staggering numbers, women encounter specific barriers that can prevent them from seeking necessary treatment and harm reduction tools.

• Stigma and Maternal Concerns: Women who use drugs frequently face societal stigmas, particularly if they are mothers. This stigma can deter them from engaging in harm reduction programs or seeking substance use treatment due to fears of legal or child custody repercussions.
• Criminal Legal System Involvement: Women involved in the criminal legal system are at a heightened risk of overdose, particularly after release from incarceration. The system imposes long-term recovery challenges, such as limited access to ‘recovery capital’—resources like housing, employment, and social support essential for sustained recovery.

Role of Harm Reduction Strategies

Harm reduction strategies, which include providing education and tools to reduce overdose risks, are vital in addressing the opioid crisis. However, these strategies must be tailored to meet women’s specific needs to be effective. The research from Penn State suggests a need for increased accessibility to harm reduction tools, such as naloxone (Narcan) and fentanyl testing strips, which many women may not be aware of or know how to use.

• Barriers to Access: The research found that low communication between substance use treatment professionals and clients, as well as insufficient aftercare support, limits the effectiveness of harm reduction tools. Without proper knowledge or tools, women might resort to ineffective or harmful strategies.
• Education and Accessibility: Expanding harm reduction education and making tools more accessible to women, particularly those not directly connected to substance use, is crucial. This includes shifting away from “abstinence only” paradigms in treatment programs, which may not be suitable for everyone seeking help.

Findings from Penn State’s Research

The study conducted by Penn State involved in-depth interviews with 20 women with opioid use disorder and a history of criminal justice involvement, as well as 22 professionals in substance use disorder treatment and the criminal justice system. These interviews revealed key insights into the challenges and potential solutions for addressing the gender gap in substance abuse treatment.

• Impact of a Toxic Drug Supply: The research highlighted the dangers of a drug supply increasingly contaminated with substances like fentanyl and xylazine. Women in the study did not blame themselves for their vulnerabilities; instead, they cited the toxic supply and a lack of access to harm reduction tools as significant risks.
• Recommendations for Improvement: The study recommends increasing access to naloxone and other harm reduction tools, expanding harm reduction education, and integrating substance use treatment with peer support and overdose response training. Additionally, providing assistance with transportation, childcare, and housing can support recovery.

Addressing the gender gap in substance abuse treatment requires a comprehensive approach that considers the unique challenges faced by women, particularly those with opioid use disorder and criminal legal system involvement. By implementing tailored harm reduction strategies and expanding access to necessary resources, it is possible to reduce overdose risks and improve treatment outcomes for women.

Source: News-Medical