Gay Drug Rehab

Lesbian Rehab

Gay drug rehab and lesbian rehab programs are necessary for those individuals who are gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (LGBT). This community represents a minority of the U.S. population, leading to a lack of appropriate gay drug rehab substance abuse treatment and dual diagnosis services. The special needs of the gay and lesbian community cannot be denied when it comes to gay drub rehab, and this issue is finally being addressed by more and more drug rehab facilities. The substance abuse treatment and dual diagnosis concerns of the LGBT are growing concerns and areas that require continued attention.

Substance Abuse Issues Drive the Need for Gay Drug Rehab

Research findings vary on rates of substance abuse among lesbians and gay men, but experts maintain that substance abuse and dual diagnosis problems are higher within the gay community than the heterosexual population. This statistic is easy to understand once you consider the challenges that face the gay community. Substance abuse treatment experts note the likelihood of a link between internalized homophobia, low self-esteem, shame, ongoing discrimination and substance abuse, among the gay community.

Gay drug rehab is not a component of many substance abuse treatment centers. They lack the staff or a treatment environment sensitive to the needs and issues of the LGBT. This does not suggest that a gay man or woman is "different" than a heterosexual, but that there are specific issues that require special attention by people who understand the dynamics of this community. It is for this reason that "gay friendly," gay drug rehab programs for substance abuse treatment are paramount. A gay drug rehab program provides a treatment environment that includes clinical services designed specifically for the LGBT. These gay drug rehab services are generally more effective than a substance abuse treatment program that only treats the general population.

The Need for Gay Drub Rehab Among Gay & Lesbian Youth

Substance abuse treatment providers have become acutely aware of the special needs of the gay and lesbian teen. Complex developmental challenges often include discrimination, isolation, prejudice and hostility. Gay teens may be the target of harassment from both peers and adults resulting in low self esteem, shame, resentment, hopelessness or depression. As a result, gay teens are more likely to attempt suicide than their heterosexual peers, are more likely to be victims of violence, and are more likely to develop substance abuse or mental health problems.

A successful gay drug rehab program for teens should encompass a comprehensive family recovery program. Not only have the substance abuse problems taken their toll on the family, but being gay, growing up with heterosexual expectations, is difficult for everyone to deal with and understand. Secondly, a substance abuse, gay drug rehab program should be designed to address mental health problems, as well. Substance abuse treatment works. Take the time and match your clinical needs with the services the substance abuse treatment program provides. Ask if the substance treatment program is gay friendly and then what substance abuse treatment services they have in place to support their response.

If you require help in locating a gay friendly substance abuse treatment program call the national substance abuse helpline at 1-800-820-5841 or go to www.gay-rehab.com. The time for you to get information and help is NOW.