For individuals in the LGBTQ community, finding an LGBT drug rehab facility can provide additional benefits beyond just starting their recovery. Everyone deserves to feel welcomed and supported when they choose to enter rehab. That’s where an LGBTQ friendly rehab can make all the difference. The more comfortable individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, or queer feel in their treatment environment, the higher their chances of becoming sober.
Studies by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) had shown data that had come from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health had shown identifying patterns of substance abuse amongst individuals of different sexual orientations.
SAMHSA had also conducted studies that found adults who identify as bisexual, lesbian, or gay have higher rates of mental illness and substance use than heterosexual adults. The survey results had also indicated that members of the LGBTQ community are more likely to seek treatment for mental health conditions and substance use disorders then heterosexuals did.
The National Survey on Drug Use and Health has stated that the most common substances gay men abuse will include:
SAMHSA also reported that 40% of bisexual, lesbian, and gay adults had used illegal drugs in the past year, compared to heterosexual adults who had only used 17 percent of that year. It was also reported that 50% of bisexual and lesbian individuals who had participated in the survey had also reported having a substance use disorder within the last year. The prevalence of the previous year’s alcohol or drug addiction was 8% lower amongst heterosexual participants who took the survey.
Similarly, substance abuse has been a great concern amongst the transgender community. SAMHSA has also stated that some of the more common drugs used by transgender individuals would include methamphetamine, injection drugs, marijuana, and crack cocaine.
The usage of alcohol is heavily present throughout the lives of most LGBTQ individuals due to its prevalence in the social settings they frequently visit. A SAMHSA Report in 2016 found that previous month’s drinking rates have become higher amongst bisexual, lesbian, and gay adults than among heterosexual adults. Bisexual or gay women are also much more likely than heterosexual women to engage in alcohol use, heavy drinking, and binge drinking.
Studies have also shown that the LGBTQ community has been shown to less likely to abstain from alcohol and drugs and are more likely to indulge in heavy drinking on a long-term basis.
Multiple studies have also found that lesbians are more likely to drink heavily than heterosexual women. SAMHSA has also noted that bisexual women have reported more hazardous drinking than heterosexual women or lesbians.
SAMHSA did another report in 2016 which gaged the previous month’s cigarette use and found it to be highest amongst lesbian, gay, and bisexual individuals. SAMHSA initially had a previous month smoking rate of 30% compared to only 20% amongst heterosexual individuals. However, the prevalence of daily cigarette usage was much higher amongst heterosexuals.
Certain marginalized groups have higher rates of drug and alcohol abuse than others. For example, people with mental health disorders are at an increased risk of addiction, whether their disorder stems from trauma or depression.
Another group with higher rates of addiction include members of the LGBTQ community. Finding an LGBT drug rehab where they feel safe and supported, is essential. But why do LGBTQ individuals turn to drug and alcohol abuse more than the general population?
Unfortunately, many don’t have the family support they need due to their sexual orientation. Another reason they may end up needing an LGBTQ friendly facility is due to bullying they often encounter. This includes cyberbullying and real-life acts of violence. As a result of feeling alone, abandoned, anxious, and scared, they might choose to escape or avoid pain. When people do this by abusing drugs and alcohol, serious problems can develop, including addiction.
Our drug rehab in LA can be a safe refuge for LGBT individuals who need treatment.
LGBT drug rehab programs were built to provide a safe space for transgender and queer individuals to recover from drug and alcohol abuse. There are specialized programs that have been developed to help recognize the specific needs of the diversity the LGBT community needs.
Our staff members at LA detox’s LGBT drug rehab center has experience working with gender and sexual minorities. Our team has been trained to provide a non-judge mental and empathetic space for individuals to go through the detox process and substance addiction treatment.
There are also group and individual counseling sessions, which are critical components of drug and alcohol addiction treatment. Our counselors are specialized in LGBT substance abuse treatment programs and are familiar with the unique challenges of living life as a transgender person or homosexuality.
The majority of individuals will find they are more comfortable doing group therapy with other LGBT community members because it allows the members to share more openly without judgment or the fear of being hated.
The detoxification programs will vary depending on which substance was used, the amount of dosage taken, and the length the substance has been used. But a majority of detox programs will follow the same steps, which include:
There is a great variety of different types of addiction treatment. The majority of individuals will benefit from a comprehensive approach that will involve several different therapeutic approaches. Depending on which substance was abused, there could be medications that help to facilitate a long-term recovery by helping to reduce cravings.
Sessions in specialized LGBT treatment programs will be customized to meet the specific needs of each patient. Our counselors are experienced and trained in leading discussions about gender identity and sexuality. They understand how to work with individuals struggling with guilt and shame, as well as with individuals who were afraid to come out to friends and family.
There are multiple different types of LGBT addiction treatment programs in the US. The specific type chosen should be based on being the most beneficial, which is dependent on multiple different individual factors. Some rehab centers will only treat lesbians or gay men, but others, like our facility at LA Detox, are open to any members of the LGBT community.
The detox process and addiction treatment will be offered at varying levels of intensity. The first treatment based decision to make is whether you’re seeking an outpatient or inpatient treatment program.
With an inpatient program, the patient will live at the facility 24/7. They’ll receive round-the-clock supervision and medical monitoring during the patient’s detox process. While attending inpatient treatment, the patients will follow a structured schedule of therapy and healthy activities daily.
Multiple treatment centers will also offer intensive outpatient programs, which will provide a similar array of treatment interventions in a familiar level of treatment intensity as an inpatient program. Still, though, the patients will return home at the end of the day.
Individuals enrolled in an intensive outpatient program can attend addiction treatment therapy sessions up to five days per week for a specific number of hours. Outpatient rehab programs are best suited for individuals with a happy, healthy, sober support system at home.
Some other outpatient treatment services could be much less intense. For example, you can still have periodic visits to a primary care doctor, local hospital, community health center, or clinic. Some patients will work with a private therapist a couple of times each week. A psychiatrist can help their patients get mentally and medically stable by providing medications that help in aid of recovery. Some other individuals will benefit from peer support groups like Narcotics Anonymous or Alcoholics Anonymous, which are free to join and only have requirements that you are motivated to refrain from any mind-altering substances.
LGBTQ individuals and LGBT drug rehab can provide a level of support you’ve never received before. When you feel comfortable and safe, you’re much more likely to take part in treatment.
Whether it’s an LGBT drug rehab in LA or other locations, you’ll participate in therapy with people who understand your unique struggles. Not only with drug and alcohol abuse but with what led to it in the first place.
Being in an environment where you feel understood can be encouraging and inspiring. LGBT drug rehab can also give you a sense of belonging and camaraderie. So many people struggling with substance abuse feel alone. Being in a treatment center and sharing with others who know your struggles will show you that you’re not by yourself.
At LA Detox, we believe that when there’s a will, there’s a way. We want to help you discover your will today. We’re a luxury addiction treatment center providing five-star care. That’s not all that sets us apart. Another attribute about LA Detox that makes us an ideal rehab option includes our dedication to trauma-informed care and individualized treatment.
Some of our services include:
Are you looking for an LGBT drug rehab in LA that meets your needs? Contact us today, we’ll help you get the fresh start you want and deserve.
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