Ivory Tower: Need for specialised de-addiction centres for women

Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU), Amritsar, is conducting research on addiction among women in Punjab. Dr Balbinder Singh, Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, GNDU, and his team had been assigned to carry out awareness and rehabilitation programmes across villages under the Yudh Nasheyan Virudh campaign initiated by the state government.

Dr Balbinder emphasises that the issue of drug addiction and substance abuse among women is often overlooked.

"Drug addiction has long been a serious social crisis in Punjab, but the role and suffering of women in this fight often goes unnoticed. While drug addiction is typically viewed as a male problem, many women in Punjab are either falling into addiction themselves or suffering due to the addiction of family members," he said. The research indicates that modern lifestyles, stress, and lack of mental health support contribute to women turning to prescription medications like anti-anxiety drugs and opioids. These medications can quickly lead to addiction. The addiction is often kept secret as women fear family and social stigma. This fear also prevents them from seeking help," he observed.

A 2019 survey revealed that out of 398 government-supported drug rehabilitation centres, only three had female residential patients.

According to scientific studies, women's bodies react differently to drugs. The presence of hormones like estrogen makes drugs more addictive and women experience more severe withdrawal symptoms (problems and discomforts caused by not getting the drug) when they stop using the drug, such as sweating, insomnia, irritability, panic attacks, etc.

Women are at greater risk of alcohol abuse, even in small amounts. Because their bodies are less hydrated and have fewer enzymes, the effects of alcohol are more intense and harmful. This increases the risk of liver disease, menstrual problems, infertility, and breast cancer in women.

Cultural stigma and fear

In his recent paper, Dr Balbinder cites that in patriarchal societies, women are traditionally placed in a nurturing role. "When a woman becomes addicted to drugs, it is not just a health problem, it becomes a social "disgrace." As a result, many women remain silent despite being addicted to drugs."

"To address this crisis, there is a need for specialised de-addiction centres for women that provide psychological support, long-term rehabilitation services, vocational training, and childcare. These centres also need the presence of trauma-informed counsellors who can understand the diverse needs of women and guide them in the right direction," he said.