For those in the LGBTQ community, addiction issues can present a unique challenge. As much as 30 percent of this community battles substance abuse issues, and many never seek out treatment.
In an LGBTQ addiction treatment center, you’ll find programs that are sensitive to the needs of LGBTQ clients and address any underlying causes of addiction issues. Specialized treatment can address family issues, past trauma, experiences with homophobia, and more.
Learn more about LGBTQ addiction treatment centers and how they can help this community overcome addiction issues.
Challenges the LGBTQ Community Faces with Addiction Treatment
Why are those in the LGBTQ community more likely to struggle with addiction issues? This may result from several challenges individuals in this community face in their daily lives. Stress can be a contributing factor in addiction issues, as negative emotions can cause individuals to turn to drugs and alcohol to cope. In addition, LGBTQ individuals can struggle with the following:
- Discrimination or stigmatization based on their sexual orientation
- Rejection from their family, friends, or community after coming out
- Public humiliation or ridicule from a non-affirming school or workplace
- Loss of employment
- Internalized homophobia
Individuals who are struggling with these issues might turn to drugs or alcohol to self-medicate. Drugs and alcohol can numb negative feelings temporarily, such as feelings of anxiety, depression, or anger. However, with continued use, individuals can develop a tolerance and dependence on these substances. This can become a dangerous cycle of stress and substance abuse.
Transgender individuals are especially at risk for addiction issues. Many individuals in this community experience feelings of anxiety or loneliness due to negative stigma and discrimination.
Co-occurring mental health issues can also contribute to addiction issues. These can include mental health issues like depression, anxiety, PTSD, or bipolar disorder. For members of the LGBTQ community who struggle with these issues, it’s important to find treatment that addresses these mental health issues alongside addiction.
Effective Addiction Treatment for the LGBTQ Community
How can you decide on an addiction treatment center? There are many different options and different programs that these centers might offer, including inpatient or outpatient treatment. However, for members of the LGBTQ community, it’s important to find a center that demonstrates an understanding of the specific issues that they face.
The goal of an addiction treatment program is to help clients manage stress and other issues without turning to drugs and alcohol. In an LGBTQ addiction treatment program, clients can participate in therapy sessions with experienced therapists as well as meet other clients who have faced similar struggles.
Some characteristics you’ll want to find in an addiction treatment center include:
- Personalized treatment – Each client should receive an individualized treatment plan to help them reach their needs
- Treatment for familial issues – Family therapy can help clients and their loved ones rebuild relationships and reestablish trust
- Assistance in responding to discrimination – Therapy can help members of the LGBTQ community learn how to handle stress in different settings
- Help with handling shame, depression, or anxiety – A dual diagnosis treatment program can help clients work through mental health issues
Contact Westwind Recovery® Today
At Westwind Recovery®, we offer addiction treatment programs that take these unique needs into account. Our addiction treatment services include weekly LGBTQ-specific and 12-step meetings with access to a local LGBTQ resource center to assist services following residential care. Our treatment programs include the following:
- Drug and alcohol detox
- Inpatient drug rehab
- Outpatient drug rehab
- Mental health treatment
- Dual diagnosis treatment
- Medication-assisted treatment
- Family therapy
Learn more about our addiction treatment programs by contacting Westwind Recovery® at 855.340.8832 today. Our team members can tell you more about program availability, specific programs, and our admissions process.
Dr. Deena is the Chief Clinical Officer of Westwind Recovery®, an award-winning outpatient treatment center in Los Angeles where she oversees the clinical and administrative program and treatment methods. Dr. Deena is a doctor of psychology and licensed clinical social worker since 1993. LCSW #20628. Originally from the East Coast, Dr. Deena has worked running treatment centers, worked as a therapist in psychiatric hospitals as well as school settings and currently has a thriving private practice in the LA area. Dr. Deena has appeared regularly on the Dr. Phil Show as an expert since 2003. She has also been featured on many other TV shows, podcasts and has contributed to written publications as well as podcasts.
