LGBTQ Substance Abuse Treatment in California

A person identifying as lesbian, bisexual, gay, transgender, or questioning (LGBTQ) often faces discrimination and challenges that heterosexual people don’t. Their risk of harassment and violent attacks is also higher. Because of these and other stressors, members of the LGBTQ community have a higher risk of substance abuse.

In addition to specializing in various alcohol rehab or outpatient drug rehab center programs in Northern California, Golden Gate Recovery also offers one of the most reliable LGBTQ substance abuse treatment. All of our treatment programs and sober living houses are men’s only.

Whether part of the LGBTQIA+ community, including those transitioning, we offer specific weekly sessions and 12-step meetings to provide specialized care and support from those with experience in helping minority groups struggling with addiction.

Substance Abuse in the LGBTQ Community

The 2023 report on drug use in the LGBTQ community during 2021 and 2022 found many notable statistics when it comes to substance use within the community

Gay men and bisexuals were comparable in terms of overall substance use disorder (32.2% and 34.4%). However, both were higher than the rate for heterosexual men (20.7%).
8% of gay men and 49.5% of bisexual men reported using illicit drugs (including cannabis), compared to 26.7% of heterosexual men.
2% of gay men and 11.1% of bisexual men reported using CNS stimulants (a category that includes cocaine, prescription stimulants, and methamphetamine), compared to 4.6% of heterosexual men.
Gay men and straight men were roughly comparable in terms of reported opioid abuse (5.4% vs. 3.5%). However, bisexual men exceeded both groups at 7.4% of reported use.
The divide in hallucinogen use was very stark, with heterosexual men reporting use rates of 3.7%. Gay men reported a rate of 8.2% and bisexual men reported an 11.1% use rate.

Statistics For Substance Abuse In The Older LGBTQ Population

Older LGBTQ individuals are more at risk of using drugs (and thus developing an addiction) than younger members of the same communities. Their rates are also higher compared to heterosexual adults of the same age.

6% of older LGBTQ adults and 1.1% of older heterosexual adults use prescription tranquilizers outside of medical purposes.
7% of older LGBTQ adults and 2.3% of older heterosexual adults use prescription opioids outside of medical purposes.
9% of older LGBTQ adults and 5.5% of older heterosexual adults use cannabis outside of medical purposes.

Surveys regarding substance use disorder haven’t always asked about gender identities or sexual orientation. These trends may have continued for some time, but data will come out with time.

Statistics For Substance Abuse In LGBTQ Youth

The most recent statistics about LGBT youth and drug use were conducted in 2017, and considered only the opinions of lesbian, gay, and bisexual students and not additional identities. But the statistics and implications were still notable:

23% of LGB students reported using illicit drugs, compared to 12% of heterosexual students.
24% of LGB students abused prescription drugs, compared to 13% of heterosexual students.

Why is the Risk of Substance Use Disorders Higher For LGBTQ People?

Individuals may use addictive substances for many reasons, including co-occurring mental illness and individual upbringing. But as a group, a few risk factors for addiction can influence the rate at which the LGBTQ community can become addicted to substances. The are as follows:

Discrimination and Social Stigma

The stress brought on by discrimination can create a greater need to “blow off steam” than may be experienced by heterosexual or cisgender individuals. Stress from social stigma may lead them to be more inclined to try addictive substances or to solidify bonds with others. If an individual has strong social and familial ties, they may be less inclined to take addictive substances to fit in with others.

Lack of Support for LGBTQ+ People

If someone is in the process of coming out as having an identity other than heterosexual to their community or support structure, they’re going to experience an increased amount of stress compared to someone who doesn’t need to undergo that process. Coming out can challenge relationships and bonds in a real and lasting way. Seeking stress relief and/or commiseration through substance use can be a real risk, especially for someone who goes through this process at a young age.

Co-Occurring Disorders

In 2023, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) released statistics gathered in 2021 and 2022 on mental illness and substance abuse in the LGBT community. They reported that gay men were nearly twice as likely as heterosexual men (37.5% vs. 18.1%) to have any mental illness and over twice as likely (9.6% vs. 4.2%) to have a serious mental illness that inhibited major life activities.

For bisexual men, the rates were even more decisive: 43.3% of bisexual men were likely to have any mental illness and had a 14.4% chance of having a serious mental illness. The stress (or urge to self-medicate) that can come as a result of having a mental illness can increase the rate at which someone uses addictive substances.

Substance Abuse And Comorbidities

Regardless of gender identity or sexual preference, there are certain conditions and other afflictions that can vastly increase the chances of developing a substance abuse disorder. These can include:

Chronic pain
Personality disorders, such as antisocial personality disorder or borderline personality disorder
Sleep disorders, such as insomnia
Mental health disorders, including stress disorders such as PTSD
Nutritional deficiencies

Each condition can increase the damage done by substance use disorder and/or can be even more harmful with the addition of substance abuse disorder. This also includes health conditions that can develop as a result of substance abuse disorders, such as respiratory problems, liver damage, or damage to the heart.

Is a Specialized LGBTQ Substance Abuse Treatment Program Necessary?

Have you ever faced discrimination for your sexuality? If so, then you know the answer is yes. It is necessary. LGBTQ substance abuse treatment programs respect the needs of this community. These programs offer support and acceptance, unlike some other programs that can make people feel like outsiders.

When compared with heterosexual and cisgender individuals, LGBTQ individuals have been found to suffer significantly higher incidences of stressful childhood experiences, school victimization, neighborhood-level hate crimes, and family conflict. Each of these stressors has been found to correlate significantly with increased substance abuse.

For this reason, having counselors and therapists who specialize in treating LGBTQ individuals is crucial. Without these specialized treatment programs, people may feel isolated or ostracized in their recovery journey. Furthermore, gay and bisexual men.

Common Addictions for Gay and Bisexual Men

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, gay and bisexual men are more likely to use drugs and alcohol compared to heterosexual and cisgender people. Common addictions for gay and bisexual men include:

Alcohol
Marijuana
Methamphetamine
MDMA (Ecstasy)
Liquid X (GHB)
Cocaine
Amyl nitrates (poppers)

Addictions in the Transgender Community

Minority stress is one of the challenging factors of substance abuse. This stress occurs in marginalized communities such as the LGBTQ. Transgender men, women, and nonbinary individuals are typically the most marginalized. They often abuse alcohol and various drugs, requiring a unique approach to LGBTQ substance abuse treatment.

Treatment Factors for LGBTQ Clients

Providing effective and inclusive treatment for LGBTQ+ clients involves considering several important factors. Gender-responsive treatment for members of the LGBTQ+ community recognizes and addresses the unique needs and experiences related to both gender and sexual orientation in the context of substance abuse and addiction treatment.

Cultural Competence and Sensitivity

Treatment providers should have a deep understanding of LGBTQ+ issues and terminology. They should be sensitive to the unique experiences and challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, including discrimination, stigma, and coming out experiences.

Affirming and Inclusive Environment

Create a treatment environment that is safe, affirming, and inclusive. This includes using clients’ preferred names and pronouns, displaying LGBTQ+-friendly signage, and ensuring staff are trained to provide LGBTQ+-affirming care.

Intersectional Approach

Recognize that LGBTQ+ individuals come from diverse backgrounds and may have intersecting identities, such as race, ethnicity, disability, and socioeconomic status. Tailor treatment to address the specific needs of each individual.

Gender Identity and Expression

Understand that gender identity and expression are distinct from sexual orientation. Transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals may face unique challenges related to their gender identity. Provide gender-affirming care, including access to gender-affirming healthcare when needed.

Respect Privacy and Confidentiality

LGBTQ+ clients may be concerned about privacy and confidentiality regarding their sexual orientation or gender identity. Assure clients that their information will be kept confidential and disclose their LGBTQ+ status only with explicit consent.

Trauma-Informed Care

Many LGBTQ+ individuals have experienced unresolved trauma related to their sexual orientation or gender identity, such as rejection or violence. Provide trauma-informed care and address any trauma-related issues sensitively.

Family and Social Support

Recognize the importance of family and social support for LGBTQ+ individuals. Encourage healthy family relationships and guide the building of supportive social networks.

Mental Health Care

Be aware of the higher rates of mental health issues within the LGBTQ+ community and address these concerns as part of the treatment plan. LGBTQ+ individuals may be at greater risk for conditions like depression and anxiety disorders. Incorporating anxiety treatment is essential for comprehensive care.

Substance Abuse and Addiction

Address substance abuse or addiction issues while considering the unique triggers and challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals. Factors like social isolation, discrimination, and minority stress can contribute to substance use.

Advocacy and Resources

Be prepared to advocate for LGBTQ+ clients within the healthcare system and provide information on LGBTQ+-affirming healthcare providers and community resources.

Education and Skills Building

Offer education on safe sex practices, harm reduction strategies, and LGBTQ+ health issues. Provide skills and coping mechanisms to help clients manage substance use triggers.

Peer Support

Consider offering group therapy or support groups specifically for LGBTQ+ individuals, as peer support can be highly effective.

Benefits of LGBTQ Substance Abuse Treatment

Members of the LGBTQ community can receive successful treatment at a regular addiction treatment center. However, a program tailored to the needs of the LGBTQ community offers many advantages.

Receive Person-Centered Care

Providing an approach that places the individual at the center of their treatment and considers their unique needs, preferences, and values. Placing importance on focusing on and healing oneself teaches the person to value themselves fully.

An Atmosphere of Honesty

Being honest about your addiction is easier when you can be completely open about your life, including your sexuality. Not only does it affect your self-confidence, it hinders your ability to recover. Being honest shows self-respect and pride in who you are.

An Accepting, Judgment-Free Environment

For many years, the LGBTQ community was viewed negatively. Some treatment centers still exclude their LGBTQ clients or try to cure them of their sexuality. At LGBTQ substance abuse treatment centers, there is no fear of judgment because they are accepting of everyone.

Counseling Services for Partners and Families

Although most substance abuse treatment centers offer family counseling, traditional therapy doesn’t always work for LGBTQ relationships. While you might be single entering treatment, your therapist needs to understand how your sexuality affects your relationships.

Support from LGBTQ+ Peers

A lack of support is one of the reasons members of the LGBTQ community start abusing drugs or alcohol. Many heterosexual and cisgender individuals have a hard time supporting something they don’t understand. A major benefit to LGBTQ substance abuse treatment is being around others who truly understand your journey.

Golden Gate Recovery’s LGBTQ Addiction Treatment Programs in California

LGBTQ addiction treatment programs are specialized programs designed to address the unique needs and experiences of LGBTQ individuals who are struggling with substance abuse or addiction. These programs are tailored to provide culturally competent and affirming care.

Special-Focus Addiction Rehab and Mental Health Treatment Programs

At Golden Gate Recovery, we provide the following LGBTQ substance abuse treatment programs:

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
Intensive outpatient program (IOP)
Aftercare program
Sober living homes

We know members of the LGBTQ community not only battle drug and alcohol addiction but struggle with a variety of co-occurring mental health issues. Our holistic approach to treatment and evidence-based addiction therapy services gives you the individualized care needed to heal the mind, body, and soul.

Our therapists specialize in:

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Family Therapy
Individual Therapy
Psycho-Education Therapy
Psycho-Dynamic Therapy
Holistic Therapies
Mindfulness

Finding the Right LGBTQ Substance Abuse Treatment Center

Finding the right LGBTQ substance abuse treatment center is crucial to receiving effective and supportive care. Here are steps to help you find a suitable LGBTQ-friendly treatment center:

Assess your needs
Research treatment centers
Check credentials and accreditations
Read Reviews and Testimonials
Contact the treatment center
Ask about dual-diagnosis treatments
Verify insurance coverage
Consult LGBTQ organizations
Get recommendations

Finding the right treatment center may take time, and it’s essential to choose a center where you feel safe, supported, and respected as an LGBTQ individual. The right treatment center can make a significant difference in your recovery journey.

Golden Gate Recovery Supports the LGBTQ Community

At Golden Gate Recovery, we offer specific LGBTQ substance abuse treatment programs. We believe this offers them the best chance at lifelong recovery. We understand the challenges you face and are here to help you heal.

From group therapy to housing, we want you to feel safe, supported, and loved. Contact us today to learn more about our compassionate and healing approach to LGBTQ substance abuse treatment.

References

https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/substance-use-suds-in-lgbtq-populations
https://recovery.org/addiction/demographics/lgbt/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7002176/

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