Addiction doesn’t care who you are, but the road to recovery looks different for everyone. Especially for the LGBTQIA community.
Health disparities like mental health issues and substance use issues caused by societal stigma and minority stress impact the LGBTQIA+ community in unique ways.
For members of the LGBTQIA community, finding the right help is key to successful addiction treatment and long-term sobriety.
At TreatmentRehabCenters.org we know the challenges the LGBTQIA community faces in recovery. This resource is here to give you the info and resources you need for effective, evidence-based LGBTQIA addiction recovery resources, treatment options and ongoing support.
Research shows LGBTQIA individuals experience higher rates of substance use disorders and mental health challenges than the general population.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), sexual minorities are more than twice as likely as heterosexual adults to have used illicit drugs in the past year.
Sexual orientation affects mental health and substance use disorder in the LGBTQ community as individuals face unique stressors like discrimination and social stigma and are more vulnerable to these issues.
Many LGBTQIA people struggling with addiction also have common mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
These conditions often come from experiences of discrimination, trauma, and societal pressure.
LGBTQIA-affirming addiction treatment programs provide a safe space where individuals can talk openly about their sexuality, gender identity, and related experiences without fear of judgment or discrimination.
LGBTQIA treatment should address:
LGBTQIA individuals have higher rates of mental health issues than their heterosexual peers because of societal discrimination and minority stressors.
Providers should be trained in LGBTQIA cultural competence to understand and respect the needs and experiences of their clients.
Substance abuse treatment providers are key in providing inclusive and culturally competent care which is necessary to address the higher rates of substance use disorder in the LGBTQIA+ community compared to heterosexuals.
Some addiction treatment centers specialize in providing substance abuse treatment for the LGBTQIA community. These centers offer programs specific to the needs of the LGBTQIA person in recovery.
The Pride Institute has locations in Minnesota and Florida and is one of the oldest and most well-known LGBTQIA-specific treatment centers in the US.
They offer residential treatment, outpatient programs, and aftercare services.
Many mainstream treatment centers have developed LGBTQ-inclusive programs or tracks within their existing services.
These programs ensure LGBTQIA clients receive culturally competent care with a diverse patient population.
Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation offers LGBTQ-inclusive addiction treatment at several of their locations. They offer specialized group therapy and address LGBTQ issues in their overall treatment approach.
Several support groups and 12-step programs are for LGBTQ individuals in recovery:
Several organizations offer online resources and helplines for LGBTQIA individuals seeking addiction help. These educational resources are for the LGBTQ+ community to address health issues, addiction and mental health:
When looking for an LGBTQ-friendly treatment program consider:
Before you commit to a program ask:
Cost is a big barrier to treatment. Consider:
Many LGBTQ individuals may not seek treatment because of fear of discrimination or being outed. Recognizing addiction and seeking treatment that addresses the specific experiences and stressors of the LGBTQ+ community is the first step in recovery. Remember:
For LGBTQ individuals family support can be complicated. Some have biological families that are supportive and others have chosen family – close friends and community members who provide unconditional love and support.
Many LGBTQ-friendly treatment programs offer family therapy and education sessions. Mental illness is prevalent and impactful in the LGBTQ+ community with higher rates of mental health disorders than the general population. These can help:
A solid aftercare plan is central to long-term sobriety. This might include:
Recovery is an opportunity to build a full and authentic life. This might mean:
Every person’s recovery journey is different but for LGBTQIA+ people there are additional challenges that require specialized support and resources.
By seeking out LGBTQIA-friendly addiction treatment and recovery resources you can find the understanding, respect, and care you need for long-term sobriety and overall wellness.
At TreatmentRehabCenters.org we help LGBTQIA people find the right treatment for them.
We understand the importance of culturally competent care and can help connect you or your loved one with LGBTQIA-friendly addiction recovery resources. Recovery is possible and you deserve support that honors and affirms every part of you.
Expertly assessed treatment options are available nationwide.
Have questions about finding the right fit? Contact us anytime!
Our website is intended for educational and informational usage only, it does not and will not render medical advice. The resources provided aim to support and not replicate or replace direct patient and healthcare provider interactions. See Full Site Disclaimer.
TreatmentRehabCenters.org’s helpline is an offering from longtime behavioral health professionals to those struggling with substance use disorders and/or mental health disorders and their loved ones to help find effective care options.
Calls to our helpline (all non-facility specific 1-8XX numbers) will be answered by Integrity Together, LLC.
At TRC, our support is provided without charge or obligation to enter into rehab or treatment of any kind.
Our treatment representatives are never given incentives or fees that rely on callers selecting a specific rehab or treatment center.
Get details on the TreatmentRehabCenters team, our credentials, mission statement, and vetting process on our ‘About’ page.
If we cannot assist your needs with our support line you can find additional help and resources by visiting the ‘Find Treatment’ services offered at SAMHSA.gov.
Our team assigns letter grades to each rehab and treatment center. These scores are derived from accreditation/s, online reviews, website assessments, and, when possible, outcome data and facility input.