Rampant alcohol use across the United States has caused a significant concern for many different groups and communities. As social acceptance of alcohol use and alcohol abuse increases, the potential for problematic drinking has become ever more prominent. The ever-increasing prevalence of alcohol abuse may be consistent across different communities and social groups; however, the impact alcohol abuse has on such groups can vary drastically. Cultural norms and acceptance of alcohol use range across all social groups, however there are some communities that are at a higher risk based on multiple factors. 

Some high-risk communities for developing an alcohol use disorder include college students, military veterans, rural communities, as well as the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Queer, Intersex, and Asexual (LGBTQ) community. Understanding the impact of alcohol use disorders within the LGBTQ+ community is paramount when treating alcohol-related disorders within this social group.

If you or someone you know is battling with substance abuse issues, AspenRidge provides supportive care for members of the LGBTQ community. Contact us directly at 855-281-5588. 

How Does Alcohol Use Disorder Impact LGBTQIA+ Individuals?

Alcohol use within the LGBTQIA+ community can be a difficult topic to approach if you feel you or a loved one may be struggling with alcohol abuse or other alcohol use disorders. Understanding the drinking culture of the LGBTQ+ community is important when considering recovery and rehabilitation treatment options. Extensive research continues to show a strong correlation between alcohol abuse within the LGBTQ+ community. This may be due to many factors including:

• Reduced social acceptance
• Increased fear
• Isolation
• Potential childhood trauma. 

Complicating factors within this community include strong sense of belonging embedded within the drinking culture, lack of available community resources, and a higher likelihood for past psychological maltreatment and disapproval. Rehabilitation and recovery may be seen as minimizing community support and current coping strategies. This may be perceived as frightening and even more isolating for an already marginalized community. 

Alcohol and other drug use may provide brief respite from emotional turmoil, but it may perpetuate alcohol abuse and alcohol use disorders leading to undiagnosed and untreated problematic drinking.

Statistics on LGBTQ+ Community and Substance Use

Substance use is a clear and present danger for many within the LGBTQ+ community. Research and statistics of prominent alcohol use shows a strong need for more rehabilitative services for alcohol use disorders within this social group. Knowing the general statistics of alcohol use is a significant step for family and friends.

• Approximately 38% of sexual minority adults 18 years and older report marijuana use. Only 16% of the overall adult population indicated marijuana use.
• 9% of sexual minority adults indicated opioid use compared to 3.8% of the overall adult population. This includes a 6.5% increase in prescription opioid misuse in 2017 alone
• 12.4% of LGBTQIA+ members report an alcohol use disorder ages 18-25. General population reports a 10.1%
• Only 7.4% of rehabilitation programs offer specialized LGBTQIA+ services indicating a severe lack of available resources.

One of the reasons that LGBTQ individuals may be hesitant to get help is the lack of resources available to them that address their individual needs, especially in certain areas of the US.

Reasons Why Alcohol Recovery May Be Difficult for the LQBTQIA+ Community

Exploring the potential for alcohol recovery is never easy and can be a long, arduous journey. It can be especially challenging for members of the LGBTQ+ community as alcohol abuse and use disorders may often be comorbid with other mental health disorders such as childhood trauma, depressive disorders, and anxiety disorders. Understanding and treating both the comorbid disorder and the substance use disorder is crucial for proper long-term rehabilitation. 

Common comorbid mental health diagnosis impacting the LGBTQ+ community include:

• Social Withdrawal
• Social Anxiety
• Fearfulness or phobias
• Depressive disorders
• Anxiety disorders
• Trauma or stress-related disorders

Treating other presenting diagnoses is necessary to properly treat alcohol abuse and alcohol use disorders. This is important for all persons seeking sobriety and alcohol rehabilitation services. It is particularly important when treating members of the LGBTQ+ due to a higher likelihood of comorbid clinical diagnoses. 

The LGBTQ+ community is two times more likely to develop a depressive disorder and three times more likely to develop an anxiety disorder due potential family estrangement, reduced sense of belonging, and other high stress social and romantic relationships.

LGBTQ Alcohol Rehab: What Recovery Looks Like

Alcohol use recovery can look different within the LGBTQIA+ community. The necessary support needed to compliment those struggling with substance use disorders can differ drastically from other high-risk social communities. Common factors to consider while treating LGBTQ+ community members include:

• Past trauma history
• Other presenting severe and persistent mental illness
• Recurring triggers
• Reduced support systems
• Lack of available resources

Considering these perpetuating factors is important during the treatment process. The recovery process for LGBTQ+ members may involve extensive mental health treatment through the use of psychotherapy along with behavioral therapies to address all presenting diagnoses. Learn more about AspenRidge’s alcohol recovery program for LGBTQ. 

Process for finding Long-term Recovery Services

Rates of substance use and addiction within the LGBTQ+ community are significantly higher than other social groups. The LGBTQ+ community presents unique challenges due to comorbid mental disorders and the presence of potential trauma related disorders. Many studies have shown an elevated presence of addiction within the LGBTQ+ community. 

Common challenges that present among LGBTQ+ members stem from coming out, stigmatization and trauma related to family and friends. AspenRidge strives to provide an environment free of bias and judgment for all members presenting for rehabilitation. The process for finding long-term rehabilitation begins with a safe and confidential assessment process along with insurance verification. Support staff at AspenRidge will utilize assessment results prior to beginning treatment. 

Treatment programs at AspenRidge may include outpatient therapy, intensive outpatient therapy, and partial hospitalization. The program demands work to address both mental health and substance use disorders.

How Do I Get Connected With AspenRidge?

Inclusivity at AspenRidge is a top priority for all staff. We understand the challenges that members of the LGBTQ+ community face, especially when considering potential rehabilitation options. 

If you or a loved one are struggling with alcohol abuse and are exploring treatment options, AspenRidge is a top-rated treatment facility in the state of Colorado with multiple locations. Contact AspenRidge at 855-281-5588 today. We are open 7 days a week. Your recovery starts today.