People who identify as LGBTQIA+ have a higher risk of experiencing substance use disorder (SUD), dual diagnosis, or mental health disorders. Individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community benefit from attending programs that offer personalized care plans and comprehensive treatment programs. Driftwood Recovery prioritizes tailored client care. The inclusive community and welcoming environment provide clients with a safe space to heal from the effects of substance abuse or mental health disorders.
A Safe Space for the LGBTQIA+ Community
Many people in the LGBTQIA+ community struggle to find services designed to meet their specific needs. Driftwood Recovery has created a space where everyone feels heard, valued, and understood. The clinical team prioritizes a trauma-informed and holistic approach to recovery, addressing underlying issues affecting client health and safety. Driftwood Recovery focuses on providing personalized care to LGBTQIA+ clients, ensuring they feel comfortable engaging with peers and the care team.
Why Specialized LGBTQIA+ Therapy Is Important
Specialized therapy sessions provide emotional support and build essential skills to address the underlying causes of addiction and prepare clients for ongoing sobriety. Individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community may face additional challenges during treatment and ongoing recovery. Specialized treatment ensures clients receive the tools they need to address these challenges effectively. Addiction recovery and mental health experts at Driftwood Recovery collaborate closely with clients to create tailored care plans designed to provide the best possible outcomes.
The Intersection of Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder in the LGBTQIA+ Community
Individuals in minority groups have an increased risk of developing substance use and mental health disorders. In addition, these demographics often have less access to preventative resources and care, causing many individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community to experience multiple co-occurring conditions.
Mental health and addiction affect one another in a variety of ways, including:
- Individuals with mental health disorders may abuse prescription medications or other substances to cope with symptoms
- Chronic substance abuse may cause some people to develop mental health disorders
- Both conditions may develop independently
The symptoms and side effects of mental health disorders impact treatment for SUD. Clients are less likely to adhere to treatment guidelines or meet addiction recovery goals if they have unaddressed mental health issues. Driftwood Recovery uses evidence-based and alternative holistic therapies to treat dual diagnosis.
Understanding Dual Diagnosis in LGBTQIA+ Individuals
Dual diagnosis can affect how individuals think about themselves, their circumstances, and other people. Promoting positive mental health through treatment and self-care reduces the adverse effects of dual diagnosis.
Addressing Social Stigma and Discrimination
Social stigma and discrimination have a profound impact on minority groups, including individuals who identify as LGBTQIA+. Treatment programs address the effects of stigma and discrimination using evidence-based therapies and peer support. Clinicians educate families about the importance of validating clients and their identity during rehabilitation.
Comprehensive LGBTQIA+ Therapy Programs at Driftwood Recovery
Driftwood Recovery offers comprehensive programs and services, including:
- Residential treatment for substance abuse and mental health disorders
- Outpatient services, including intensive outpatient programs (IOPs)
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based approaches
- Alternative holistic therapies
- Individualized treatment plans
- Aftercare planning
- Alumni support services
Driftwood Recovery has created a supportive and inclusive environment for LGBTQIA+ treatment. Individuals in treatment can rely on the clinical team and support staff to respect their gender identity and sexual orientation. Clinicians validate and uplift clients, providing a nurturing space for them to heal.
Addressing Trauma, Sexual Abuse, and Emotional Pain in LGBTQIA+ Recovery
Individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community have a higher likelihood of experiencing sexual abuse, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and other forms of trauma. According to Trauma, Violence, and Abuse, up to 85% of lesbian and bisexual women and up to 54% of gay and bisexual men have experienced sexual assault. In comparison, “approximately 11–17% of [cis] women and 2–3% of [cis] men in the U.S. experience sexual assault during their lifetimes.” The significant increase in exposure to trauma experienced by individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community makes it essential for treatment programs to address trauma as a central part of recovery.
Overcoming Trauma and Sexual Abuse
Clients with underlying trauma related to sexual abuse benefit from participating in group and individual therapy. Peer support can empower individuals with a history of abuse and provide them with positive social connections. Increasing resilience and developing a healthy support system promotes lasting sobriety and positive mental health.
Some of the treatment options Driftwood Recovery offers to individuals healing from the effects of SUD and sexual trauma include:
- Psychotherapy, including dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Psychiatry
- Self-help groups
- Holistic therapies
- Trauma therapy
- Family therapy
- Experiential therapies
Trauma-focused care and tailored treatments help clients with a history of sexual abuse build trust and self-confidence.
Managing Anger, Stress, and Coping With Discrimination
Individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community face additional challenges during treatment and ongoing recovery, including discrimination. Finding healthy ways to manage anger and stress caused by negative social interactions reduces triggers and decreases the risk of relapse. Driftwood Recovery encourages clients to practice mindfulness and self-care to manage everyday stressors.
Some of the ways LGBTQIA+ individuals in recovery address discrimination include:
- Attending LGBTQIA+ support groups
- Building a network of allies
- Engaging in LGBTQIA+-specific therapy
- Practicing self-acceptance and pride
- Utilizing stress management techniques
- Celebrating identity through sober LGBTQIA+ events
Most individuals use a combination of strategies to effectively manage the stress of discrimination and stigma while remaining committed to recovery.
Driftwood’s Commitment to LGBTQIA+ Care: What Sets Us Apart?
Driftwood Recovery is committed to ensuring clients receive the care and ongoing support they need to live fulfilling and meaningful lives.
Some of the things that sets Driftwood Recovery apart from other treatment centers include:
- A focus on peer engagement, community integration, and mutual support
- Life skills training and relapse prevention education focused on issues relevant to LGBTQIA+ clients
- Collaborative family therapy and family support services
- Transparent communication and clinical excellence
Driftwood Recovery provides high-quality addiction recovery and mental health treatment to individuals in Texas. The tailored care and specialized LGBTQIA+ services prepare clients to manage the challenges of ongoing sobriety.
LGBTQIA+ therapy and other services at Driftwood Recovery support healing and personal growth for individuals recovering from substance use and mental health disorders. To learn more about our programs and inclusive community, call our office today at (512) 759-8330.
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