LGBTQ Drug and Alcohol Rehab Programs

Finding LGBTQ+ Friendly Rehabs

Rates of substance abuse and addiction are higher among people in the LGBTQ+ community than in other segments of society. Having access to LGBTQ Drug and Alcohol rehab programs catering to specific LGBTQ-issues is imperative to help individuals overcome the disease of addiction. However, finding a treatment center to meet the exceptional challenges LGBTQ+ individuals face as they attempt to build a new life can be challenging. At AspenRidge Recovery, we not only treat the addiction, but we also work to heal issues of abuse, trauma, stigmatization, violence, and harassment. We also connect clients with peers who can understand them.

Countless studies show the incidences of substance abuse and addiction are higher among people who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, or somewhere else on the spectrum of gender and sexuality. 

The issues that stem from coming out, stigmatization, and trauma inflicted by others are compounded by the fact the LGBTQ+ community has historically faced challenges accessing healthcare. At AspenRidge, we strive to provide an environment free of bias, judgment, or bias, including in the area of substance abuse and addiction treatment. 

Discrimination and Addiction in the LGBTQ Community

Recently, addiction treatment centers have expanded access and programs to focus on the unique needs faced by the LGBTQ+ community. More facilities now offer treatment specifically designed to help gay, lesbian, and transgendered individuals recover from substance use disorder. However, many of these programs aren’t totally inclusive, and they fail to provide a safe space for transgendered individuals. It can be challenging for LGBTQ+ to locate treatment centers that meet their needs without being confronted with bias and prejudice. By knowing what to look for, LGBTQ individuals can find the right treatment center to get them on the path to recovery. LGBTQ Drug and Alcohol rehab programs should be uniquely formatted to meet an individual’s challenges as it applies to marginalized communities and groups. 

Throughout most of human history, members of the LGBTQ+ community have been marginalized and experienced extensive discrimination throughout their lives. A study published in the American Journal of Public Health shows LGBTQ persons who have experienced multiple forms of discrimination are four times more likely to develop substance use disorder. 

Contributing factors can include:

• Exclusion from social groups and activities
• Physical abuse by family members or romantic partners.
• Rejection by family or by a spiritual or religious community
• Violence based on sexual orientation or gender identification
• Peer ridicule and rejection

An LGBTQ+ person struggling with addiction may have experienced some or all of these negative consequences of merely living life as they are. These factors can contribute to the development of an addiction.

AspenRidge LGBTQ+ Treatment Options

Recognizing and creating solutions to the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community can mean the difference between life and death.  Awareness of the particular needs of gay men, lesbian, bisexual individuals, and the trans community can help provide treatment that can lead to long-term recovery. Treatment options within LGBTQ drug and alcohol rehab programs should highlight some key factors. Learn more below.

AspenRidge Recovery implements and develops effective treatment to address LGBTQ issues including: 

• Higher incidences of marijuana and illicit drug abuse and addiction for gay men
• The prevalence of alcohol addiction and binge drinking for lesbian women
• The separation that bisexuals may feel from both the straight and gay communities
• Mistrust of healthcare providers that can be prevalent in the transgender community
• The emotional and physical scars some individuals may carry as a result of trauma

Why AspenRidge?

Our extended care model of addiction treatment caters to the specific needs of LGBTQ+ population. We meet the needs of the individual seeking help with their addiction by ensuring the program they enter is welcoming.  Our staff understands the personal, social, and psychological challenges and also provides the support needed to help overcome other specific issues they may uncover during and after treatment.

Because of the potential for dual diagnosis in LGBTQ+ populations is high, our facilities are an excellent choice for people with issues of depression, anxiety and other mental health issues. Our treatment model simultaneously treats these issues as well as substance abuse. Our alumni program also ensures that individuals have all the tools they need to manage their recovery after rehab. We also have online resources for aftercare specific to the LGBTQ+ community such as a guide to LGBTQ+ dating in recovery.  

The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that drug and alcohol rehab programs most likely to help an individual achieve long-term recovery are those that tailor treatment to an individual’s specific needs. Our treatment professionals provide that individualized standard of care. 

For that reason, it is essential that a person who identifies as LGBTQ, and who is ready to enter substance abuse treatment, finds a program with experience treating those in the LGBTQ community. Call us now at (855) 678-3144 to talk to one of our admissions representatives and find out if AspenRidge addiction treatment programs in Colorado are right for you!