To many it seems like unlike men, who tend to abuse alcohol in social settings, women “uncork the bottle at home alone” and self-medicate their anxiety and depression. An analysis of national surveys shows that 47 percent of white women were regular drinkers in 2002, up from 37 percent a decade earlier. Among black women, the rate rose from 21 percent to 30 percent; among Hispanic women, from 24 percent to 32 percent. In a recent survey by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism more than 5 percent of women in the United States have alcohol use disorders. The gap overall between women and men who have alcohol problems seems to be narrowing.

Alcohol is more available and more affordable, according to Roach, and advertisers are more sophisticated marketing alcohol pops and berry flavored vodka to women. Drunk driving arrests are on the rise among women as are emergency room visits for alcohol-related accidents. Binge drinking is up among all age groups, and not just the college set. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 10 percent of women between 45 and 64 say they binge drink; and so do 3 percent of those over 65.

The Changes4Women program is designed for chronic relapsers, licensed professionals, executives and those with a history of multiple treatments. It is an excellent opportunity for women in treatment first time and who want to address the addiction head on to reduce the risk of relapse. The program provides a minimum 90 day long term rehab program for women in early recovery, however, a 6 – 12 month length of stay is recommended. Length of stay is determined by each resident’s individual progress. The facility features both private and semi-private accommodations in the newly renovated East Hall, as well as two separate cottages. The program is designed to immerse each woman into a 12 step way of life, while providing the basic rehab support of counseling, housing, and recreation. www.chnagesforwomen.org