Lived Experiences of Women With Substance Use Disorders Regarding Their Motivations and Barriers to Seeking Treatment
Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing, vol.33, no.5, pp.907-921, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, SSCI, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 33 Issue: 5
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.1111/jpm.70172
- Journal Name: Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing
- Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus, Abstracts in Social Gerontology, CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Psycinfo, Public Affairs Index, EBSCO Communication Source, Academic Search Ultimate (EBSCO), Biomedical Reference Collection: Corporate Edition (EBSCO), Communication Source (EBSCO), Health Research Premium Collection (ProQuest)
- Page Numbers: pp.907-921
- Keywords: barrier, lived experiences, motivation, substance use disorders, women
- Istanbul University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
Introduction: Women with substance use disorders (SUD) face distinct gender-based challenges in accessing and engaging with treatment, including stigma, caregiving responsibilities and inadequate institutional support. Despite increasing rates of substance use among women, their treatment needs remain under-addressed in both clinical practice and research. Aim: This study explored the lived experiences of women with SUD regarding their motivations and barriers to seeking and maintaining treatment in a psychiatric inpatient setting in Türkiye. Method: A descriptive phenomenological approach was used. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 27 women diagnosed with SUD who had completed detoxification and were receiving inpatient care. Data were analysed using Colaizzi's method, supported by MAXQDA 24.0. Results: As a result of the research, two main themes emerged: ‘Motivations and Barriers’. Also, four sub-themes: (1) Motivation to initiate treatment, (2) Motivation to maintain treatment, (3) Barriers to initiating treatment and (4) Barriers to maintaining treatment, and 17 codes were determined. Discussion: Motivations and barriers to treatment among women with SUD reflect an interplay of psychological, social and structural factors. Addressing these multidimensional needs is essential for sustained recovery.