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American Addiction Centers National Rehabs Directory

Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender (LGBTQ) Rehab Centers Near Me

People from all walks of life suffer from substance abuse. LGBT rehab centers exist because those who are gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender often have different needs than the general population.

What are the Warning Signs of Drug & Alcohol Addiction in LGBTQ community?

It can be difficult to determine if you or a loved one is suffering from drug or alcohol addiction. Fortunately, there are some signs you can look for. These include:

  • The inability to stop drinking
  • Physical symptoms when alcohol is not consumed
  • The use of alcohol or drugs to escape bad feelings
  • Drinking or using drugs in secret
  • Neglecting daily activities
  • Poor hygiene
  • Changes in appearance or behavior
  • Mood swings and uncontrolled anger

Drug and alcohol addiction is a life-threatening condition.

Tailored Addiction Treatment for LGBTQ Community Needs

Members of the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender community have a more difficult time dealing with their substance abuse issues. This is because they often have other problems that complicate their addiction. Traditional treatment centers may not be equipped to address these issues. Gay drug rehab facilities that specialize in treating the LGBT community can help.

Why LGBTQ friendly rehab programs are Necessary (Required)?

Those who are gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender often experience the following:

  • Feeling isolated or alone
  • Embarrassment or shame
  • Fear
  • Rejection by loved ones and peers

These feelings are separate from their addiction issues but interrelated. They often have different reasons for abusing drugs and alcohol than the average individual. An experienced LGBT rehab center understands the complexity of this issue.

Did You Know?

In 2001, the U.S. Government ordered a study on the addiction needs of the LGBT community. They determined that gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender individuals are more likely to develop addictions than the general population.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment in LGBTQ Rehab (Addressing Underlying Issues)

LGBT rehab centers follow an approach similar to traditional rehab programs. However, they also address issues such as homophobia, family acceptance, prejudice, and discrimination. These are concerns that often plague the LGBT community and contribute to their alcohol or drug dependency. Gay and lesbian drug rehab programs address more than just the addiction. They get to the root cause and help alleviate any shame associated with their sexual orientation.

Did You Know?

Homosexuality was considered a mental illness. In 1973, The American Psychiatric Association changed the classification and reported that homosexuality was a normal and positive variation of human sexuality.

A Non-Judgemental Environment

Traditional rehab centers are often ineffective at treating the LGBT community. While these may be good programs, they may be inadequate for the needs of a gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender person. These centers are often uninformed of the special needs and emotional issues surrounding homosexuality. They may be negative towards LGBT individuals and may have their own prejudices towards them. LGBT rehab centers are aware of these issues and offer a nonjudgmental, understanding approach that a traditional rehab center may not.

Did You Know?

A study conducted at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health determined that LGBT youth living in a supportive environment were 25 percent less likely to attempt suicide than those living in environments that were less supportive of the gay lifestyle.

Does LGBTQ friendly rehab programs treat mental health disorders?

Suicide rates are higher among the LGBT community. This may be because of the general attitude of society. Gay, lesbian bisexual, and transgender individuals are often ridiculed, misunderstood and feared. They are sometimes targets of violence as well. As a result, gay individuals often develop negative attitudes towards themselves. These attitudes contribute to their drug and alcohol use.

LGBT rehab centers use cognitive behavior therapy techniques to change their feelings about themselves. These centers promote self-acceptance and help the addict find peace within. If you are looking for a top LGBT rehab center, call today.

Do LGBTQ Rehab Centers Offer Addiction Treatment Therapies?

LGBTQ individuals have been found to suffer higher levels of stressful childhood experiences, school bullying, neighborhood-level hate crimes, and family conflict than heterosexual and cisgender individuals. The degree of substance abuse is significantly correlated with each of these stressors.2 

Since LGBTQ+ people experience anxiety, depression, mental health needs, and addiction at a higher rate than other populations, a critical aspect of treatment is finding a drug, alcohol, and heroin detox program that accommodates their unique needs. Finding LGBT-friendly addiction treatment programs that appreciate the therapeutic approach members of this community require is a crucial component in recovery.2

What to Look for in an LGBT-Friendly Rehab Center?

People that belong to the LGBTQ demographic face additional obstacles when trying to get sober. The stigmatization of the LGBTQ people may lead to isolation, loneliness, shame, and fear of rejection and judgment. These aspects are not exclusive to this community but may well be a barrier that’s impossible to overcome.11 

For this reason alone, drug and alcohol rehab centers sometimes offer services that can provide additional assistance to this population through programs that help deal with trauma, abuse, harassment, and violence. LGBTQ rehabs provide access to peers who deeply understand the individuals.1

How to Find LGBT-Friendly Rehab?

LGBTQ individuals may have more difficulty finding a treatment center to assess particular personal, social, and psychological concerns. Aside from the standard rehab programs that deal with addiction, it is vital to include programs that deal with depression, anxiety, and guilt associated with how society accepts their sexual orientation and gender identity.2 

There is evidence that treatment for LGBTQ individuals needs to address factors related to homophobia, transphobia, family of origin issues, violence, and social isolation. LGBTQ individuals face higher mental health stigmas because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.2

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