Woman Attacked by Addicted Companion While Abusing Drugs

Women who abuse drugs and alcohol or live a life that focuses on the maintenance of an addiction are more likely than their sober counterparts to be victims of assault, rape, or other violent act. Recently, one woman in San Francisco experienced this phenomenon firsthand: a 23-year-old woman was using drugs with a 46-year-old male when he hit her with the butt of a gun then stuck the barrel of the gun in her mouth. He did not shoot her, but before leaving, he slashed her face and her hands with a knife. She is in stable condition but as of yet, her attacker has not been caught.

Is this a rare occurrence? Hardly. Women in recovery routinely report that they were raped, attacked or abused during their active addiction and usually by people they knew and were using drugs with.

Dealing with Assault and Abuse During Drug Rehab

It’s not just an option for women who have experienced trauma during active addiction; it’s practically a necessity for recovery. Dealing with the feelings that come along with being a victim of assault and abuse are a crucial part of recovery. Women who are not active alcoholics or drug addicts often lean heavily upon illicit substances as they attempt to heal from serious violence and sexual trauma – when addiction is already an issue, it can cement the addiction and postpone treatment even further. Psychotherapeutic treatment and exploratory or experiential therapies are one of the best ways to start healing and leave addiction behind.

Being Safe and Feeling Safe in Drug Rehab and Recovery

When violence and trauma are a part of your past, it can be difficult to open up and trust during drug addiction treatment. Choosing a woman-centered drug rehab can help you feel safer and enable you to speak up during group therapies. Knowing that you are surrounded by women, many of whom have experienced the same things you have, can help you to feel more comfortable sharing the details of your experience and beginning the process of healing.

Rehab for Women at The Orchid

Would you like to learn more about our drug and alcohol addiction treatment program for women? At The Orchid, we offer treatment by women, for women – only. We offer specialized therapies and treatments that address the experience of women during active addiction. Contact us today and learn more about how we can help you or a woman you love come back from drug and alcohol addiction.