Women and Alcohol

Women’s drinking has been rising.  3.6 million women (17%) reported drinking over 14 units of alcohol per week (the recommended sensible maximum) in 2002, a 70% increase on 1988.  Women may use alcohol at risky levels to give themselves confidence; to help them cope with poor mental or physical health; to deal with unresolved issues from their past; to heal the pain and shame of sexual abuse or domestic violence.  Traditionally, women drinkers have been stigmatised and often isolated, but with recent social, economic and cultural changes it is better off, younger women who are beginning to develop problems with alcohol.  Because alcohol affects women differently from men, women who drink heavily are especially at risk from cancer, stroke, hypertension, obesity, osteoporosis, heart disease, and reduced fertility.  They are also inherently more vulnerable to attack, the dangers of unsafe sex and mental health and social difficulties.

At Open Road we provide services specifically geared towards the needs of women who are experiencing problems with alcohol.  We aim to offer them information, advice, care and encouragement in a safe, non-judgemental environment.  Following an initial assessment each woman and her keyworker will devise a suitable treatment programme together.  Most opt for one of the body therapies such as aromatherapy or shiatsu, plus a weekly counselling session.  Those who are not ready to commit themselves to counselling can receive regular one-to-one support on a less formal basis.

Group meetings are also important for many women.  Here they can meet others in similar circumstances, share knowledge and make new friends.  We run a weekly group where women can learn a variety of useful relaxation/meditation techniques including Qi Gung, guided imagery, visualisation and breath awareness as well as listening to music.  Those who are responsible for children can join our parent group meetings, which are informal gatherings where members can share ideas, fears and hopes, decide what works and what doesn’t and discover how to have more fun and less anxiety.

All the women are given practical help with reduction and harm minimisation strategies.  They are enabled to look at the reasons why they drink and to develop different ways of handling stress and disappointment.  They are empowered to make positive changes and healthy lifestyle choices, to grow in self-awareness and confidence and to manage their lives without having to rely on alcohol.