Addiction doesn’t discriminate. Regardless of their age, gender, race, or sexual orientation, everyone can develop and struggle with a substance use disorder. However, addiction treatment programs have a higher chance of success if they’re tailored to the needs of their participants. A standard addiction treatment program is not for everyone.
This is why many addiction treatment facilities offer dual diagnosis, gender-specific, and age-specific programs. Some also offer LGBTQ addiction treatment programs, which should be more widely accessible than they are now. After all, members of the LGBTQ community struggle with addiction at rates nearly double that of the general population.
A facility specializing in providing the LGBTQ community a specialized program also provides them with a comfortable, safe, secure, and empowering environment to discuss their experiences and pursue addiction recovery. Contact The Arbor Behavioral Healthcare today if you’re looking for an LGBTQ addiction treatment center in Austin, Texas. Call 844.413.2690 or reach out to our team online.
What Does LGBTQ Mean?
The term “LGBTQ” is taken from the initial letters of the following words: lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender/transsexual/two-spirit, and queer/questioning. Some use the term “LGBTQ+” to include other members of the community who identify as intersex, asexual, or ally — the plus sign makes this variant of the term a shortcut for the complete but ungainly “LGBTTTQQIAA.”
The sign also represents the identities that aren’t represented by the initials — such as agender, bigender, pangender, and pansexual.
“LGBTQ” is the most common term used by addiction treatment facilities, possibly because it’s the shortest and also more user-friendly. LGBTQ addiction support programs are typically for everyone who identifies with any gender identities mentioned above.
What Is an LGBTQ Addiction Treatment Program?
An LGBTQ addiction support program may be one of many programs offered by an addiction treatment facility, or it could be the main focus of a whole LGBTQ rehab center.
In any case, whenever activities and sessions that are part of an LGBTQ addiction treatment program happen, clients can be assured that they’re among peers and that the treatment plan they’re following is the best for them. For example, in both one-on-one and group therapy sessions, experiences that are unique to the LGBTQ community are usually discussed — including the following:
- Bullying and discrimination
- Coming out trauma
- Confidently expressing their sexual orientation or gender identity
- Difficult relationships with family members
- Misgendering
An LGBTQ program also allows clients to create bonds and build support systems throughout their lifetime. They can rely on these connections when they return to their everyday lives, struggle with triggers, and maintain sobriety. Having others who understand your feelings and thoughts is crucial to a successful addiction recovery journey. Building a sober, supportive LGBTQ network is an essential aspect of recovery that programs like this help clients with.
What Should Clients Expect From LGBTQ Rehab Centers?
Members of the LGBTQ community usually find it very difficult to ask about or get admitted into addiction treatment programs. A huge factor in this is that they’re afraid of being discriminated against or judged by medical professionals who are supposed to help them.
Fortunately, LGBTQ rehab centers offer a haven for people like this who want to overcome their substance use disorders. LGBTQ programs that are also residential are particularly essential. They can offer both comfort, privacy, and a schedule and environment that’s safe and secure enough for clients to not worry about being judged or ridiculed. LGBTQ rehab centers and programs also focus more on easing the daily struggles unique to the community they serve.
Ready To Learn More About The Arbor’s LGBTQ Addiction Treatment Program?
Searching for an LGBTQ addiction treatment center in Austin, Texas? Contact The Arbor Behavioral Healthcare today by calling 844.413.2690 or reaching out to our team online.