Drug and alcohol addiction is a complex disease that affects millions of people worldwide each year. However, it can feel more complicated when you are part of a minority group or part of a community such as LGBTQ+. There may feel as if there are often added difficulties, including unique challenges that may make you feel as if you have nowhere to turn.
Thankfully, this is not the case. Whilst it may take a little extra time to accommodate your needs, it is more than possible to do. LGBTQ+ addiction recovery is possible and educating yourself on every route to success is vital.
At Action Rehab, we can not only direct you towards the best path for addiction recovery but offer guidance that can ultimately make you feel less alone. We appreciate that there are still bigger challenges facing people in the LBGTQ+ community who suffer from addiction. So here are some tips and information that can help make your journey easier and more effective.
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Our phone lines are open 24 hours a day so if you are interested in finding out more about LGBTQ+ addiction treatment. We are here to help all people recover from drug or alcohol addiction – call us on 0151 268 6992!
GET IN TOUCH TODAYUnderstanding The Challenges
People who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender, may feel more alone in their struggle for sobriety. This is because the social construct has conditioned many people to feel that they are the ones to blame, or that they will not have their needs and desires met in a drug or alcohol rehab facility. This can lead to not seeking help or treatment, for fear of shame or rejection.
Here are some likely issues and how to resolve them going forwards:
Discrimination
Discrimination is seen among many minorities, but when you are facing alcohol or drug addiction, discrimination can feel as if you are the one to blame. Being brave enough to open up about addiction treatment and recovery, and seeking help is courageous. Therefore you should always keep this at the forefront of your mind.
To overcome discrimination, you must remember the root cause as to why you want to make a change. When you speak with any industry professional, such as a doctor, rehab clinic or at an AA meeting, you should openly tell them that discrimination is a worry for you and that you would like to be heard and validated just like everyone else. Educate people about your community, and show them your willingness for change. At Action Rehab, we can offer assistance to guide and support you through any troubling times.
Social Stigma
Before attending an alcohol or drug rehab centre, you may be concerned about potential triggers that exist. It is known that people in minority groups are at a higher risk of substance use, due to discrimination, which leads to anxiety and depression. When you are dealing with the added pressure of mental health illness, you may feel that your symptoms are exacerbated.
Social stigmas can only be eliminated over time with education and evolution. Therefore, you cannot remove this stigma, and instead, have to learn to keep a close support network around you. You can concentrate on your own personal journey, and be aware of your own attitude. During rehab, you will learn a range of life skills that will undoubtedly contribute to a healthier future for you. Offer them to ask questions, and be open to learning their point of view.
Lack of Access to LBGTQ+ Friendly Treatment Options
There are very few treatment plans available to people exclusively in the LBGTQ+ community, but LGBTQ+ support for addiction is available at Action Rehab. You will find that you can gain access to treatment options if you speak with us. We can assess your individual needs and relevant support, and find a solution that works for you. There is no need to feel isolated due to the lack of options. Every year, more and more rehab centres are becoming more open to finding new programmes that cater to your needs.
Drug and alcohol addiction recovery should be a priority, and we will endeavour to ensure you find a programme that is helpful to you, without the added burden of worrying about any stigmas or judgement. LBGTQ+ inclusive treatment options are available and can actively assist with trauma, harassment and discrimination, whilst leading you on a holistic healing path.
Impact of Minority Stress on Addiction
Minority stress is a very real issue, which is highlighted among people facing addiction. Minority stress can create mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, which can lead to further mental health conditions. This can exacerbate or even precipitate substance use.
You should speak openly and honestly to a designated professional about the impact that this is having on your mental health, headlining any conditions and symptoms that have manifested. This way, you can be treated accordingly and offered the necessary support for continuing your addiction recovery journey.
Finding LGBTQ+ Friendly Addiction Treatment
LGBTQ+-specific treatment programmes can be found in numerous places, with inclusivity for all. If you have reached out to your GP or within the public sector, there may be limited options. However, if you are considering a private rehab programme, then there are many places to choose from that will make you feel welcome.
At Action Rehab, we specialise in working with LBGTQ+ individuals, including having a range of resources to help you find providers who specialise in this area. We appreciate that your treatment plan may look a little different to others, so we provide you with places that honour LBGTQ+-friendly policies and practices throughout.
Support for LGBTQ+ Individuals with Addiction
There is no need to suffer in silence. Being part of a minority community can also be empowering. You can be part of innovative treatment plans, including learning new life skills and being able to share your wisdom and recovery with other people who are part of the same community.
Support groups and LBGTQ+ treatment programmes can be found, and you can learn about the various treatment options. Online resources may also play a pivotal role in finding other people in similar situations. We can provide you with numerous tools to help you feel comfortable in your quest for sobriety.
Finding Help
At private rehab, we want you to feel as if you are part of a community. You will feel welcomed and reassured, entering into a programme of various lengths, depending on numerous factors, including drug or alcohol detox and psychotherapies and aftercare support.
Detox is a 7-day process that will safely remove the addictive substance from your body. In a controlled medical environment, you will feel cared for and offered the support that you need. Psychotherapy treatments will also play a role. You will be offered numerous world-renowned treatments that incorporate your mental health issues and this includes CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), counselling, group sessions and more. Your journey will be one of community, support and care. All your needs will be considered during treatment, including your privacy and confidentiality.
We want to help you create a healthy future, because you are capable, and you are certainly worthy. Please contact us today for further information on 0151 268 6992.
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