LGBTQ+ Affirming Addiction Treatment Center Costa Mesa

Research continues to show¹ that sexual minorities are at greater risk for substance abuse and mental health issues. It’s more important than ever that we address the need for awareness and treatment options. Sexual minority populations include those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender. As this population of Americans continues to grow, we see the success of programs like those offered at addiction treatment center Costa Mesa. We want to encourage you to seek help if you’re LGBTQ+ and struggling with addiction.

LGBTQ+ and Addiction: What The Numbers Say

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA),² those who identify as LGBTQ+ fall in the sexual minority when compared to the sexual majority population that identifies as being heterosexual. More, as a sexual minority, they are at greater risk for substance abuse and mental health issues than heterosexuals.

In a recent survey on drug use and health², almost 5% of the surveyed adults over the age of 18 identified as being in the sexual minority. The results of the survey indicated that those who were in the sexual minority were more likely to use illicit drugs. It also showed they were more likely to be cigarette smokers and be consistent alcohol drinkers than when compared to their heterosexual peers. They also were found to be more likely to suffer from substance abuse disorders. Sadly, they were found to be less likely to reach out for treatment from programs like those offered at addiction treatment center Costa Mesa facilities.

About 9% of the general American population struggles with substance misuse and abuse. And nearly 30% of the LGBTQ+ community suffers from substance abuse and misuse. Some of the reasons that percentage is so much higher stem from the challenges that members of the LGBTQ+ community face regularly.

LGBTQ+ Risk Factors for Addiction

Unfortunately, if you’re in the LGBTQ+ population, you deal with substantial challenges on a regular basis³. Daily, you can struggle with discrimination, shame, rejection, and even public humiliation and hate crimes.

Often, you find your sexual orientation prevents you from being as successful in your professions and careers as when in comparison to heterosexuals. This can lead to lower self-esteem and even self-hate. In a few words, you feel ‘less than’ in so many ways.

Just like those in the sexual majority, these feelings of depression, shame, guilt and more can lead you to look for ways to take away the pain and guilt. You turn to alcohol or drugs in an attempt to numb the pain³ and prejudice you face from those around you.

The problem is that turning to substances for relief only brings you temporary solace. The reality is that not only is the relief temporary, but you may also be exacerbating other co-occurring disorders.⁴ SAMHSA reports that LGBTQ+ individuals are also more likely to suffer from anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other mental health disorders. This means that you’re more likely to experience suicidal thoughts and even attempt suicide.

That’s just not okay.

Clear Life Recovery: Addiction Treatment Center Costa Mesa That Cares

Make no mistake. Clear Life Recovery knows you face unique challenges to beat your addiction. Our LGBTQ+ addiction treatment program is more than a recovery program. It’s a break from the harsh judgment and shame you may feel. It will serve as a huge step toward the life you are meant to live—substance-free.

If you’ve been struggling with addiction, but you’re ready to live a clean and clear life again, the time to contact us is now. At Clear Life Recovery, Costa Mesa, we offer custom treatment options that will target your specific needs for recovery. Here at Clear Life Recovery, you’ll be able to be yourself and embrace acceptance for who you are. The compassionate and caring specialists at Clear Life Recovery will walk with you through every step of the rehabilitation process. This includes drug and alcohol intervention and individual and group therapy. Addressing the specific issues you may deal with as a member of the LGBTQ+ community.

You can achieve sobriety and live a life without shame and judgment. We’ve helped countless individuals just like you complete programs that changed their lives for the better. If you’re ready for sober and healthy living, our LGBTQ+ addiction treatment program is ready to help you get there. Make the call today, and work toward your better tomorrows.

Sources:

1. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/316632437_Health_Disparities_by_Sexual_Orientation_Results_and_Implications_from_the_Behavioral_Risk_Factor_Surveillance_System
2. https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/NSDUH-SexualOrientation-2015/NSDUH-SexualOrientation-2015/NSDUH-SexualOrientation-2015.htm
3. https://www.americanprogress.org/issues/lgbtq-rights/reports/2012/03/09/11228/why-the-gay-and-transgender-population-experiences-higher-rates-of-substance-use/
4. https://www.drugabuse.gov/related-topics/substance-use-suds-in-lgbtq-populations