| Description |
Women typically experience violence and trauma before they become addicted to drugs and alcohol. Violence against women impacts addiction, treatment and recovery. Addiction is fueled by trauma and pain. The majority of existing treatment options designed for men, do not address gender-specific trauma of being a woman, in a male dominated society. A research study on recovery cannot ignore addiction. The two are intricately intertwined, and one impacts the other. The research study question was: How do women in recovery from addictions, rebuild social capital? Connection through social capital is the antidote to substance abuse and moves women from addiction to recovery. Family, friends, and community connections create a web of support essential to recovery. When women are in recovery, they find new meaning and purpose in life. Preserving, honoring and celebrating the recovery experiences of women are important to raise awareness about sustainable recovery. Personal narratives are enhanced with the use of; photographs, using photovoice as a research methodology was the opportunity to put cameras into the hands of women, and view social capital and recovery through their lens. |
