In the world of substance abuse treatment, as in all therapeutic environments, cultural competency is critical in the delivery of service. This is why it’s crucial for rehab centers to know how to provide LGBTQ addiction treatment and what special needs may arise.
If a facility or therapist is not competent regarding a specific culture or ethnic group it is difficult for the client to feel understood, safe and trusting. It also becomes difficult for the client to develop the rapport with the therapist, which is crucial to the therapeutic relationship. The Lesbian, Gay, Bi, Trans and Questioning/Queer population is no different. Cultural sensitivity may be even more critical for this population that has been so marginalized by society.
This population, like other diverse groups, has its own set of special needs and concerns. According to The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, statistics show that LGBTQ persons are generally more prone to substance abuse than the general population. (SAMHSA HHS Publication No. (SMA) 12–4104).
Alarming Statistics for LGBTQ Substance Abuse
Alcohol use disorders are, by some studies, as high as 25% to 30% in gay and lesbian populations versus. 3-10% in heterosexuals. It is speculated that the added stressors for LGBTQ persons may contribute to these statistics, as well as a social environment that, for some segments of the LGBTQ population, involves the frequent use of alcohol and other drugs.
The stigma of sexual preference, gender identity diversity and diverse sexual orientation is equal to or possibly greater than the stigma associated with addiction. With stigmas and prejudice, comes denial and the fear of being found out.
Proper Treatment For LGBTQ Addiction Treatment
For an LGBTQ person suffering from addiction, there is a double dose of potential bias and discrimination, increasing the potential for denial and shame. Confidentiality issues become even more critical, as do the importance of staff that are culturally competent and sensitive to these issues. For LGBTQ persons there are many considerations that do not affect the heterosexual population. Heterosexism and homophobia can create a hostile environment in the treatment setting. There may be legal issues and other forms of discrimination that do not correspond to the heterosexual population. Internalized homophobia may contribute to low self-esteem and self-loathing, which is already a common trend for addicts and alcoholics.
An environment and staff that is understanding and supportive to the LGBTQ addiction treatment client is crucial to a positive treatment outcome. A client must feel safe and supported to develop the positive rapport that is necessary for a therapeutic alliance. Sensitivity and knowledge of issues and needs in this population is critical in delivery of services that are appropriate and supportive.
If a client that is looking for LGBTQ addiction treatment is not supported in a group counseling sessions and is not counseled individually with regards to appropriate and mindful consideration of when, where, and how much to disclose regarding their sexual and gender issues, they may fall prey to discrimination by other clients.
A group atmosphere of acceptance and support must be fostered by trained and culturally competent staff members and any homophobia or discrimination must be not tolerated. A powerful healing experience may be had by all group members when acceptance and support are given to LGBTQ group members by their non-LGBTQ peers. New attitudes of acceptance may be learned by non-LGBTQ clients that may have initially harbored negative attitudes. If any prejudice or aggression towards the LGBTQ client is observed staff must advocate for the LGBTQ client, as client safety must be paramount. Consideration of special needs in discharge planning, as well as family services, must also be a part of LGBTQ sensitive treatment.
Medical issues may also be a factor, due in part to the increased prevalence of STDs in the LGBTQ client population, as well as the use of IV drugs. Medical staff and screenings must be attuned to the concerns and vulnerabilities of the LGBTQ client, who may have been marginalized in the healthcare system previously. Co-occurring disorders may be a factor, as with all substance abuse clients, and trauma resulting in PTSD is a common theme. LGBTQ clients may be resistant to disclosure and treatment for these issues because of their heightened sensitivity to discrimination and their past histories of marginalization.
Creating a comprehensive treatment experience for LGBTQ clients is an important piece in the overall scope of treatment planning. With a population that is over the average in numbers of chemical dependency, the LGBTQ addiction treatment client is often under served and under treated.
The right rehab treatment center will help LGBTQ clients by understanding their issues and providing a supportive, safe treatment environment is furthering recovery for all populations.
If you’d like to learn more about addiction treatment for LGBTQ persons please feel free to call Beachway at 888-345-7505 or contact us online today.
This post was written by: Elizabeth Ossip, LCSW, CAP, ICADC
