Interactions Between Substance Use and Sexual Behaviours for Women Receiving Alcohol and Other Drugs Services

Literature indicates that addressing interactions between substance use and compulsive behaviours can improve outcomes for chemical addiction counselling, mental health and physical health. This paper presents the results of a survey that explored (a) how frequently interactions between problematic sexual behaviour and substance use are presented by women receiving Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) Services, (b) how sexual behaviour is assessed in AOD Services, and (c) what treatment options are available. All respondents indicated having observed at least one interaction between substance use and problematic sexual behaviours, though responses were variable. However, there was not a consistent approach to assessment or treatment for interactions of substance use and sexual behaviour. To enhance the therapeutic value of AOD Services, counsellors may benefit from continuing education about the interactions of addictions, and development of a standardised method to address problematic sexual behaviour.