Alcohol harms women more than men.

American writer Erika Anderson highlighted the growing impact of alcohol consumption among women, stressing that the health and psychological harms associated with drinking often exceed those experienced by men.

Andersen explained that she was using alcohol as a means to deal with psychological pressures, emotional wounds, and personal problems, considering that excessive drinking for many women is not related to pleasure as much as it is related to trying to escape stress, exhaustion, and daily pressures.

She noted that rates of alcohol consumption among women have increased significantly over the past two decades, accompanied by an increase in the health harms associated with it. She believes that the causes of this phenomenon go beyond just stress or fatigue, to include deeper factors related to the modern lifestyle and increasing social pressures.

According to Andersen, alcohol affects a woman’s body differently than a man’s, as it can cause hormonal disorders that affect mood, fertility, sleep, and mental health. It may also lead to high levels of the stress hormone (cortisol), increased anxiety, menstrual disorders, and decreased ability to adapt emotionally.

The writer criticized what she described as “marketing alcohol” to women as a means of relaxation, self-care, or a symbol of liberation, considering that these messages may encourage ignoring the real harms associated with regular consumption of alcohol.

Andersen believes that stopping drinking alcohol helps women deal more clearly with personal, family and professional challenges, rather than using alcohol as a temporary means of escape or numbing feelings.

She added that abstaining from drinking prompts many women to ask deeper questions about the pressures of modern life, the balance between work and family, and the need for social and family support.

The author pointed out that there is a growing trend among women towards reducing or quitting alcohol consumption, considering that this shift reflects a growing awareness of the health and psychological costs associated with drinking, and a greater desire to adopt healthier and more stable lifestyles.

She stressed that the final decision regarding drinking alcohol remains a personal choice, but increased awareness of the risks may prompt many women to re-evaluate their relationship with it and make decisions that are more beneficial to their physical and psychological health.