According to SAMHSA, in 1999 men continued to have a higher rate of current illicit drug use than women (8.7% vs. 4.9%). Among pregnant women age 15-44 years, 3.4% reported using illicit drugs in the month prior to interview. This was significantly lower than the rate among non-pregnant women age 15-44 years (8.1%). Women have historically reported somewhat higher utilization of prescription psychoactive drugs. Research that studies pregnant and parenting females who use illicit drugs typically concentrates on mothers from lower SES groups. This study describes 288 healthy, successful, adult female recreational drug users, not abusers. Respondents completed an online survey that requested information regarding their drug use, a demographic profile, current mental health status, and any experiences with law enforcement as well as attitudes about the effectiveness of the "War on Drugs." The sample was predominately white, middle-aged, and well-educated. Their mental health status, as measured by the General Well-being Schedule, was similar to population norms (mean=74.80, SD=16.77). Many of them are parents (29.2%), are married (34.7%), and have a full-time job (55.2%). In terms of frequency of use and levels of intoxication, their self reported use was occasional and well controlled. For all the illicit drugs, excluding marijuana, the majority of the sample reported using once a month or less. These women appear to be successful in maintaining long term relationships and acting as responsible mothers and wives, an image at odds with users of illicit drugs. See www.accessky.net/illicit-drug
Learning Objectives: N/A
Keywords: Drug Use, Women
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.