Substance abuse in the gay and lesbian community
Statistics show that substance abuse is much more prevalent in the GLBT (gay, lesbian, bi-sexual, and transgender) community than it is with heterosexuals. Depending on whose statistics you are reading, the incidence of abuse and dependency is 2 to 3 times greater than what the straight population experiences. As a result of this, there has been a growing need for gays and lesbians drug treatment programs that are sensitive to the personal needs of these individuals.
Not only is the treatment and recovery process essential, the staff members of the gays and lesbians drug treatment program must remain cognizant and sensitive to the unique issues that these individuals have to deal with. There are certain factors that probably contribute to GLBT’s being more susceptible to substance dependency including:
- discrimination
- lifestyle behavior
- negative emotions
- social pressures
Although many opponents have claimed that these statistics are greatly exaggerated, the data that has been collected clearly indicates a higher level of abuse and dependency among the gay and lesbian community than what has been found in straight society.
How are these programs different from traditional ones?
Gays and lesbians drug treatment programs have many similarities to the traditional types in that they offer out-patient programs and short-term or long-term residential in-patient programs. Educational materials and other recovery tools are also provided in the GLBT programs just like with other more traditional addiction treatment and recovery ones. Finally the aftercare and support networks are available once they transition from the addiction treatment and recovery facility back to society.
Choosing a gays and lesbians drug treatment program
Considering the fact that it was only recently that many addiction treatment and recovery facilities became sensitive to the needs of the GLBT community and instituted gays and lesbians drug treatment programs, the need for them had been in existence a long time. As a result, there are now numerous ones to choose from and this presents quite a challenge for the addicted individual when they are looking for help.
Ultimately, the main priority involved with evaluating a gays and lesbians drug treatment program during the decision making process should be how strong the programming is. The approaches and philosophies involved with this specific addiction treatment and recovery program should match certain internalized beliefs. Additionally, the client should feel comfortable with the facility and the staff members.
Treatment 4 Drugs is here to help
Our drug addiction treatment and recovery referral site has compiled a list of gays and lesbians drug treatment programs that are available in every state in the US. So no matter where you live, we can find the program that addresses your personal needs so that you experience a complete recovery and remain substance-free for life.