Pathways offers program for women

Alcohol is the most common substance abused in America, and nearly half the alcoholics in this country are women. The gap in the number between male and female alcoholics has narrowed over the last 30 years as women increasingly abuse alcohol at the same rate as men.

As disturbing as this trend is, more and more women are seeking help. Although men still outnumber women in treatment four to one, women are beginning to feel more comfortable reaching out for assistance.

The important step for an alcoholic is to get help. Entering treatment is a measure that can save an alcoholic's life.

Pathways Treatment Center at Virginia Baptist Hospital offers gender-specific programs for alcoholics. Pathways for Women is designed specifically for female alcoholics, in which women meet in a safe, comfortable environment where they can disclose and discuss issues that might otherwise remain hidden.

The program, which offers day and evening intensive outpatient therapy, stresses individual counseling and educates women about alcohol and the effects on the body. The Pathways program consists of four to six weeks of primary treatment and a one-year minimum of continuing care.

To learn more about treatment for alcoholism or other chemical dependency, please call Pathways Treatment Center at (434) 947-4455.