Methamphetamine was the primary drug of choice for 38% of those entering DCCCA’s six substance use disorder treatment programs in 2016.  More alarming is 52% of women entering First Step at Lake View and Women’s Recovery Center identified Meth as their drug of choice, surpassing alcohol, cocaine and opiates.

Research tells us that women who use methamphetamine are more likely than men to experience:

• Unemployment
• A live-in partner who abuses substances
• A history of physical and sexual abuse
• A history of multiple suicide attempts
• More frequent use
• Psychiatric methamphetamine-related symptoms, issues and conditions.
• Psychosocial stressors that include pregnancy risk, domestic violence, financial dependency and involvement with the child welfare system.

Women who seek treatment for Meth use typically remain in treatment longer, and have longer periods of abstinence than men.  Methamphetamine use, and the hope for ongoing recovery, for women are both directly connected to relationship issues.   Successful treatment at First Step and Women’s Recovery Center involves not only education and support related to not using the substance, but strategies that help distance them from relationships and communities that encourage Meth use.  Our work includes assistance in finding safe, supportive housing; employment to gain financial independence; and connections to recovery focused community services.