LGBTQ Addiction Statistics

Addictions can affect anyone, anywhere, anytime. People from all walks of life can struggle with a drug or alcohol addiction. However, statistics show that some marginalized groups of people can be more susceptible to addiction. When taking a look at lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT+) people, it becomes evident just how much drugs and alcohol can affect this community. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, “Research suggests that sexual minorities (e.g., people who identify as lesbian, gay, or bisexual) are at greater risk for substance use and mental health issues compared with the sexual majority population that identifies as being heterosexual” (www.samhsa.gov). Though there are many reasons for someone to use drugs or alcohol, LGBT+ people face hardships or difficulties (trauma) in their lives which may lead them down a path of addiction as a solution to feel better and cover up the shame. Those struggles lead to an LGBT person to rely on drugs or alcohol as a coping mechanism. What starts off as a way to blow off some steam, a casual night out with friends or just a glass of wine can turn into an addiction and make people feel like they need drugs or alcohol every day. 

For the LGBT+ community, this poses a risk not only to their physical health, but mental health as well. When faced with unaccepting or affirming family members, homelessness, abuse, rejection and trauma, their reliance on drugs or alcohol takes a toll on their daily life. Unfortunately, “Many federally funded surveys have only recently started to ask about sexual orientation and gender identification in their data collections. Surveys thus far have found that sexual minorities have higher rates of substance misuse and substance use disorders (SUDs) than people who identify as heterosexual. Therefore, it is not yet possible to establish long-term trends about substance use and SUD prevalence in LGBTQ populations.” (drugabuse.gov). When struggling with addiction, it becomes necessary for LGBTQ people to turn to rehab, therapy, counseling or treatment centers. 

However, there ends up being a specific need from LGBTQ people when getting help for drug or alcohol addiction: an educated LGBTQ affirming staff. While it may be true that anyone can experience addiction, it is important to remember that oftentimes LGBTQ people face discrimination and lack of understanding. Admitting that you need help and gaining the courage to do something about it is no easy feat. It can sometimes take weeks, months or years for someone to finally do something about their addiction. Adding unacceptance or discrimination on top of that makes the situation even harder. Although a mental health or social work professional may mean well and may be trained to deal with addiction, it might not necessarily be the best fit. LGBT people need to know that they are receiving help for their addiction from someone who is affirming, knowledgeable, and understanding. Finding a mental health professional who understands the LGBT community is crucial in helping an LGBT person overcome a drug or alcohol addiction.

What are some co-occurring conditions that LGBTQ+ clients may experience?

LGBTQ clients may experience co-occurring conditions such as substance use disorder alongside mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. It is important to address all these conditions comprehensively to ensure effective treatment and support for LGBTQ individuals. Programs like Inspire Recovery tailored to assist LGBTQ clients are equipped to identify and provide assistance with managing these complex situations.

How is LGBTQ+ Substance Use Treatment different from general substance use treatment programs?

LGBTQ+ Substance Use Treatment differs from general substance use treatment programs by incorporating specialized approaches tailored to address the specific needs of the LGBTQ community. While many treatment methods overlap with general programs, LGBTQ specific recovery care emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive and inclusive environment that acknowledges and addresses the unique challenges faced by individuals in the LGBTQ+ community. Inspire Recovery’s tailored program aims to provide culturally competent care that fosters acceptance, understanding, and safety for LGBTQ individuals seeking help for substance use issues. By focusing on the distinct needs of the LGBTQ population, Inspire Recovery enhances the effectiveness and relevance of treatment interventions, ensuring that individuals receive comprehensive and personalized support.

What is LGBTQ Substance Use Disorder Treatment?

LGBTQ Substance Use Disorder Treatment caters to the specific needs of individuals in the LGBTQ community who are struggling with addiction. It offers affirming, inclusive and understanding care that embraces clients’ identities sexual orientations. By providing a supportive & affirming environment, our tailored treatment program, empowers individuals to make informed choices, LGBTQ Substance Use Disorder Treatment aims to address addiction issues in a manner that resonates with the external traumatic experiences and challenges faced by LGBTQ individuals.

What are some of the LGBTQ recovery program groups and services offered at Inspire Recovery?

Inspire Recovery provides a range of LGBTQ recovery groups and services tailored to meet the diverse needs of their clients. Some of the LGBTQ recovery groups and services available at Inspire Recovery include specialized LGBTQ Substance Use Disorder Treatment, LGBTQ Affirming Therapy Programs, LGBTQ 12 step Recovery Programs, and an LGBTQ Alumni Program. These services provide a safe, affirming and supportive environment for individuals within the LGBTQ community who are seeking addiction treatment and recovery support. Additionally, Inspire Recovery offers other services such as Family Therapy Program, Trauma Therapy, Relapse Prevention, and Mental Health treatment among others to address co-occurring disorders and provide comprehensive care to our clients.

How does Inspire Recovery provide community-focused addiction treatment based on individual needs?

Inspire Recovery ensures community-focused addiction treatment tailored to individual needs by delivering programs specifically designed for the LGBTQ community. Our caring staff works closely with each client to establish their unique treatment goals and care plans. This personalized approach guarantees that the recovery care provided is customized to meet the diverse and specific requirements of every individual. Located in West Palm Beach, Florida, Inspire Recovery prides itself on offering programs that are thoughtfully crafted with the by the LGBTQ community for the LGBTQ community, further enhancing the quality and effectiveness of our LGBTQ friendly & affirming treatment services.

How can individuals in the LGBTQ community start their recovery journey with Inspire Recovery?

Individuals in the LGBTQ community can begin their recovery journey with Inspire Recovery by reaching out to our treatment facilities located in West Palm Beach, Florida. Our caring staff at Inspire Recovery will work closely with each client to develop personalized treatment goals and care plans tailored to their specific needs. Our programs are specifically designed with the LGBTQ community in mind to provide comprehensive recovery care. If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you can contact the compassionate staff at Inspire Recovery either by calling 561-899-6088 or filling out our online form to learn how to initiate your recovery journey today.

Sources:

• https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/NSDUH-SexualOrientation-2015/NSDUH-SexualOrientation-2015/NSDUH-SexualOrientation-2015.htm
• https://www.drugabuse.gov/drug-topics/substance-use-suds-in-lgbtq-populations