Lived Experiences of Women with Substance Use Disorders Regarding Their Motivations and Barriers to Seeking Treatment
E. Albal, G. Sahin-Bayindir, T. Comez-Ikican, I. Alniak, M. ErkiranIntroduction
Women with substance use disorders (SUD) face distinct gender-based challenges in accessing and engaging with treatment, including stigma, caregiving responsibilities, and inadequate institutional support. Despite increasing rates of substance use among women, their treatment needs remain under-addressed in both clinical practice and research.
Objectives
This study explored the lived experiences of women with SUD regarding their motivations and barriers to seeking and maintaining treatment in a psychiatric inpatient setting in Türkiye.
Methods
A descriptive phenomenological approach was used. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 27 women diagnosed with SUD who had completed detoxification and were receiving inpatient care. Data were analyzed using Colaizzi’s method, supported by MAXQDA 24.0.
Results
Four core themes emerged: (1) Motivation to initiate treatment—awareness of harm, maternal responsibilities, exposure to recovery models, and emotional support; (2) Motivation to maintain treatment—positive clinical relationships, reduced craving, regained self-confidence, structured routines, and hope for the future; (3) Barriers to initiating treatment—fear of stigma, low self-efficacy, social isolation, and substance-using peers; (4) Barriers to maintaining treatment—withdrawal symptoms, emotional distress, and disruptive behaviors within the treatment environment.
Conclusions
Motivations and barriers to treatment among women with SUD reflect an interplay of psychological, social, and structural factors. Addressing these multidimensional needs is essential for sustained recovery. Gender-responsive, trauma-informed treatment environments that enhance therapeutic alliance, peer cohesion, and systemic accessibility are vital to improving treatment outcomes for women with SUD.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared