Each person’s experience in life is unique, and how you process your life experiences can significantly affect your success and stay in an addiction treatment program. If you’re part of the LGBTQ+ community, recovery can present distinct challenges unless you’ve chosen a treatment center sensitive to your specialized needs.
At Michael’s House, we understand the unique challenges that addiction can present within the LGBTQ+ community. Addiction treatment programs are designed to provide holistic care that addresses physical and psychological addiction triggers. If you are seeking addiction help for LGBTQ+ loved ones or yourself, an LGBTQ+-friendly treatment center can help you overcome addiction and regain your sense of well-being. Reach out to us today at 760.548.4032 to learn more or to schedule a tour.
Why Is Drug Addiction Common in the LGBTQ+ Community?
Research shows that addiction rates are higher in the LGBTQ+ community than in the general population. According to a recent study, 40% of respondents identifying as lesbian, gay, or bisexual reported using illicit drugs, including illegal drugs like marijuana, cocaine, and heroin, as well as misuse of prescription drugs within the last year. Many factors may contribute to this substantial difference in substance use rates in the LGBTQ+ community.
Minority and Discrimination Stress
People in the LGBTQ+ community often experience higher levels of anxiety and depression due to daily discrimination. Discrimination can be formal, like in the workplace or housing market, or informal, as in social settings. Either way, it’s an ongoing reality for LGBTQ+ individuals. Even if you haven’t experienced discrimination firsthand, the reality is well-known through tragic news stories, and the fear can be just as crippling.
Lack of Cultural Competency
When people don’t know how to interact with you appropriately because of your sexuality, you’re often the one who bears the burden. More importantly, if you’re dealing with mental health or addiction issues and the professionals in those fields aren’t well-versed in LGBTQ+ culture and the unique challenges you face, you may not get the help you need to sustain long-term recovery.
Targeted Marketing
Many companies market their products specifically to LGBTQ+ people because they know drinking and smoking rates are higher in that community and that bars and nightclubs provide a social space for many LGBTQ+ individuals. These targeted marketing strategies can perpetuate the cycle of substance use.
At Michael’s House, we understand the unique challenges that addiction can present within the LGBTQ+ community. Addiction treatment programs are designed to address all aspects of addiction, including addiction triggers specific to the LGBTQ+ community. Whether you’re seeking addiction help for an LGBTQ+ loved one or yourself, our LGBTQ+-friendly addiction treatment center can provide support and guidance on your journey to recovery.
The Benefits of an LGBTQ+-Specific Addiction Treatment
If you already feel ostracized or oppressed, choosing an addiction treatment center that feels welcoming can be overwhelming. Addiction treatment should be a positive experience that empowers you to pursue a better life apart from drugs and alcohol. That’s why finding a suitable facility is vital. You’ll be in recovery alongside other participants who share similar experiences and can identify with the challenges you may face regarding working, friendships, and family. In specialized programs, there’s an openness to discuss the stress and stigma of LGBTQ+ culture and a community of support to help you prepare for the challenges of re-entering everyday life while pursuing sobriety.
Why Choose an LGBTQ+ Addiction Rehab
Coming out is a brave and difficult step for anyone, but it can be incredibly challenging for those who have struggled with addiction. For many LGBTQ+ people, addiction rehab is the first step to recovery. A rehab center provides a welcoming space for LGBTQ+ people to begin their journey to sobriety. Some reasons that people choose LGBTQ+ addiction rehab include:
- Help from professionals who understand the unique challenges facing individuals in the LGBTQ+ community and can provide tailored addiction treatment plans that address these specific needs
- A supportive environment where you can focus on your recovery without feeling judged or excluded
- Access to individual therapy, group counseling sessions, and addiction recovery support groups designed specifically for LGBTQ+ people
- An addiction treatment plan that may include holistic therapies such as yoga, meditation, acupuncture, and art therapy
- Privacy will be respected
Staff provides culturally competent care and offers various programs and services designed specifically for the needs of the LGBTQ+ community. We understand patients’ unique challenges, and we are here to help them every step of the way.
Learn More About Michael House’s and Our LGBTQ+-Friendly Addiction Rehab
If you or someone you love in the LGBTQ+ community is struggling with substance use or addiction, we can help. At Michael’s House, we have helped many people overcome their addictions in a caring, non-judgmental atmosphere. Our addiction treatment programs meet the unique needs of LGBTQ+ individuals, and we offer addiction help for the LGBTQ community. For more information on addiction treatment programs and how they can benefit you or your loved one, visit our website today or contact us directly at 760.548.4032.