The social stigma surrounding addiction disproportionately affects women, often leading to marginalization and economic insecurity, according to the Cyprus National Addictions Authority (NAAC).
The organization highlighted the issue in a statement marking International Women’s Day.
In 2023, a total of 172 women in Cyprus sought treatment for substance addiction, with cannabis being the most abused substance (39%), followed by methamphetamines (18%), cocaine and crack cocaine (16%), and heroin (12%).
NAAC President Christos Minas stressed that women facing addiction often experience more social stigma, which acts as a barrier to seeking help. He noted that Cyprus has one of the highest male-to-female ratios of first-time treatment seekers, a phenomenon attributed to both social factors and the lack of specialized services tailored to women’s needs.
“Factors such as domestic violence, sexual exploitation, and the transmission of infectious diseases like HIV are often linked to their experiences. Social condemnation and the absence of specialized structures frequently discourage women from seeking help, leaving them isolated and unsupported,” the statement says.
NAAC reaffirmed its commitment to addressing the challenges faced by women struggling with addiction. The authority continues to push for the development of gender-sensitive interventions that cater to their specific needs.
As part of its action plan, the Authority says is working to improve women’s access to treatment services by strengthening and expanding targeted interventions. It also supports existing facilities, including Cyprus’s only residential treatment program exclusively for women, and advocates for policies that eliminate barriers preventing women from seeking help.
