Recent advances in civil rights have evened the playing field for LGBTQ community members in a variety of settings. However, there’s still a lot of room for growth. Cases in point are gay addiction treatment centers in Florida. Here’s what to look for in an LGBTQ-friendly addiction center Florida trusts.
The Gay Community Has a Drug Problem
Individuals in the gay community are twice as likely to suffer from chemical dependency as their heterosexual counterparts. Many blame multiple stress factors with insufficient coping skills for the problem. Others cite the ease with which you can obtain drugs within the community. Another factor to consider has to do with the peer pressure to join others in their substance abuse.
No matter how your addiction problem started, gay addiction treatment centers in Florida can be the answer. Frequently, this level of care takes place at traditional rehab facilities that offer LGBTQ-friendly care. However, what does this look like? Most importantly, what should you look for in an inclusive facility?
Gay Addiction Treatment Centers in Florida Feature Specializations
There are next to no specifically queer addiction center options. Some people stop searching for help because of this. That’s not a good response. In contrast, those who pursue lifelong sobriety focus on finding facilities that cater to their specialized needs.
It’s vital that an LGBTQ component isn’t just an add-on. Instead, it needs to be a specialization. Examples include the following:
- Mainstream facilities that offer judgment-free treatment to all program participants
- LGBTQ support group meetings that deal with topics such as hormone replacement therapy, gender confirmation surgery, stigma, and coming out
- Family therapy that focuses on the individuals that the program participants identify as partners or chosen family members
- 12 Step meeting attendance with LGBTQ alumni as accountability partners
- Coping skills development for the unique challenges that you face on a daily basis
Aftercare must identify the services you’ll require once you graduate from the program. For example, some people prefer a transitional living situation. Transgender individuals must be able to select housing for their chosen gender identity. Those who were part of a social circle focused on substance abuse have to work on leaving their old peer group behind.
This can be challenging. Developing a new support network is vital. Alumni engagement after rehab can be the bridge between treatment and lifelong sobriety. Look for a facility that offers it.
Dual Diagnosis Treatment Is a Crucial Factor for Healing
Any LGBT addiction treatment center South Florida residents can trust should feature dual diagnosis care. Co-occurring mental health conditions are significant contributors to substance abuse. Examples include depression, anxiety, and personality disorders. Another factor is PTSD.
Many members of the LGBTQ community are trauma survivors. However, not all of them can process it productively. Therefore, trauma treatment should be part of dual diagnosis care. Working with therapists who understand your unique position is helpful.
Contact gay addiction treatment centers in Florida today to see how they can meet your need for healing.