Drug and alcohol addiction present major challenges for millions of Americans, many of which are a part of the LGBT community. Substance abuse is more prevalent in the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community when compared to the general population. Sexual orientation, gender and race are factors that can affect the development of a Substance Use Disorder (SUD). Yet, regardless of an addict’s particular background, addiction rehabilitation facilities that specialize in LGBT addiction treatment are far more likely to have a profound, positive impact on these individuals. If you are looking for a quality LGBT drug and alcohol rehab program to start your recovery, Restore Treatment Center is an excellent facility to consider.

Substance Abuse Rates in the LGBT Community

Rates of substance abuse and addiction among the LGBT community are higher than in the heterosexual community overall. The following information is based on research conducted by the 2015 National Survey on Drug Use and Health in regards to those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender:

• In the past year, LGBT adult illicit drug use was higher than heterosexual adults’ illicit drug use (39.1% versus 17.1%).
• LGBT adults had higher levels of drinking in the past month than heterosexual adults (63.6% versus 56.2%).
• Females of the LGBT community were more likely than heterosexual females to abuse alcohol, such as engaging in binge drinking. Similar results were found among men.
• LGBT adults’ rate of substance use disorder (15.1%) was higher than the rate for heterosexual adults (7.8%), as well as higher across age and gender groups.

The LGBT Community and Substance Abuse

The relationship between addiction and the LGBT community is important to be aware of. External factors have long been known to influence substance abuse. Examples of outside influences include environmental factors and co-existing mental health issues. Members of the LGBT community are impacted by a unique set of outside factors when compared to those who identify as heterosexual, in addition to those influences heterosexuals struggle with as well.

Those who identify as LGBT, often struggle with feelings of isolation and oppression. In many unfortunate circumstances, these feelings can lead to substance abuse and drug dependence. They attempt to suppress these negative feelings with drugs or alcohol. However, it is common for members of the LGBT community to be hesitant towards accepting help, for fear of being further judged or discriminated against by others.

Examples of factors that often contribute to substance abuse among the LGBT community include:

• High rates of depression and anxiety
• The need to escape discrimination by others
• An effort to numb particular feelings of sexuality
• The need to ease feelings of shame and guilt related to their LGBT identity
• Pressure among peers

The LGBT-oriented addiction treatment programs at Restore Drug Rehab LA are specifically designed for individuals in the LGBT community. Our programs take into account the many contributing factors of substance abuse that these individuals struggle with on a daily basis. It is important for LGBT addicts to know that they will be embraced by all program staff and fellow residents. This judgement-free environment we have created here at Restore facilitates learning and motivation for long-term success in addiction recovery.

Call us today and ask about our options for LGBT addiction treatment if you or a family member is struggling with drug addiction, alcoholism, or co-existing disorders. At Restore Drug Rehab LA, your individuality is important to us.