LGBTQ Mental Health Residential Treatment

Struggling with substance use and mental health concerns, what is popularly known as co-occurring disorder or dual diagnosis, is a reality for some people within the LGBTQ+  community. Most LGBTQ+ people often feel overwhelmed due to the pressure to conform, fear of rejection, discrimination, homophobia and violence. This can take a toll on their mental health making them turn to substances as a way to cope with stress and difficult emotions. Adding substance use to the mix can make things even more complicated. But when substance use and mental health struggles collide, things can get really tough. Finding a way to address both substance use and mental health concerns can feel discouraging. But in this blog post, we have put together all the necessary information you need to know about LGBTQ+ mental health residential treatment to help you find a sense of calm and clarity, even in tough times.

What To Know About Dual Diagnosis?

When dealing with addiction treatment, an individual often presents with a substance dependency, such as alcohol or meth, and a mental health disorder, such as bipolar disorder or depression. These co-occurring disorders are referred to as dual diagnosis and inform our approach to treatment.

It is necessary to treat both the addiction and the mental health disorder simultaneously through targeted therapies that address the complexity of the situation. For example, a clinically depressed person may drink heavily to cope with depression and become addicted to alcohol. Treating one disorder without treating the other is ineffective since these two conditions reinforce one another. Additionally, a person with dual diagnosis may very well develop other mental health disorders and substance use struggles, leading to a downward spiral with potentially fatal outcomes.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment For LGBTQ+ People 

In most cases, society’s prejudice towards those with gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender orientations causes immeasurable emotional obstacles and stress for targeted individuals. Many LGBTQ+ people face ongoing social rejection, become victims of bullying, and are forced to cope with feelings of both estrangement and harassment.

These unique stressors can lead to the development of psychological struggles caused by addiction, which include, clinical depression, anxiety disorders, or dissociative disorders. As a result, many LGBTQ+ people often turn to drugs or alcohol to escape these continually painful experiences. In some instances, addiction has developed due to efforts to self-medicate emotional or psychological pain with alcohol and drugs.

Dual-diagnosis treatment programs for LGBTQ+ individuals are geared toward treating their unique emotional struggles. These mental health services are offered with LGBTQ+ addiction treatment. These services enable those in the LGBTQ+ community to heal psychologically and physically without fear of judgment.

Treating Co-Occurring Disorders

The most important thing to remember when it comes to treatment of co-occurring disorders is that both conditions must be addressed. That said, the best dual diagnosis programs provide integrated treatment. Indeed, treating both mental illness and addiction “under the same roof” has proven to be a successful treatment method for dual-diagnosis patients. 

Treating co-occurring mental health disorders and addictions at the same time is important for various reasons:

• Integrated treatment programs aim to overcome the negative symptoms of mental health disorders, such as a diminished attention span, a low level of motivation, and a fear of socializing with others.
• Medication therapy is more effective when it addresses both the mental health conditions and the substance abuse disorder.
• Traditional hesitations about prescribing psychotherapeutic medications are no longer an issue.
• Group therapy provides a stronger support network for people who are struggling with both mental health conditions and addiction.
• Treating both conditions together helps individuals address their relapse triggers, such as depression, anxiety, mood swings or panic attacks.

Furthermore, good dual diagnosis programs move at a pace that’s comfortable for the person. Because of the mental health component, providers must move the rehab along at a pace that allows the patient to feel safe and supported. 

Beyond these considerations, various treatment programs and methods show promising results. When looking for a treatment program, look for the following key features: 

• A staff of mental health professionals and addiction therapists with specialized training in treating co-occurring disorders
• A staff trained in integrative treatment for mental health disorders and addiction 
• Close collaboration among treatment professionals 
• Individual counseling, peer support groups, and aftercare recovery resources for mental health conditions and addictive disorders
• Access to medication therapy for anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions

The Benefits Of LGBTQ+-Friendly Dual Diagnosis Treatment

As has been noted, individuals with a substance use struggle are more likely to have a mental health disorder. Even though some people turn to alcohol or drugs for self-medication, substances only make mental health conditions worse. Receiving treatment that is accepting, welcoming, and beneficial to the LGBTQ+ community can be an invaluable source of support when managing a dual diagnosis. There are several benefits to this kind of affirming treatment:

• A reduction in anxiety
• Improved ability to participate in therapy
• Greater acceptance of medical advice
• Enhanced self-acceptance and reduced risk of suicide
• Fewer breaches of trust between the individual and the care provider.

LGBTQ+ dual diagnosis treatment can improve individuals’ psychological well-being to express themselves authentically.

What to Expect In Co-Occurring Disorders Treatment Program

Someone with a mental health condition and substance use disorder should treat both struggles simultaneously with integrated treatment. Integrated treatment, which includes collaboration between professionals (such as psychiatrists, medical doctors, therapists, and addiction counselors) is what is recommended by the Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). 

At Q Space Detox, individuals have access to various treatment modalities and a specialized program to assist with dual diagnosis issues including, but not limited to:

• Individual counseling
• Individualized mental health treatment plans
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy
• Co-occurring disorders education and group therapy
• Medication management
• Free aftercare for life

Your Road To Recovery Begins With One Call

If you are an LGBTQ+ person struggling with addiction and co-occurring mental health conditions, contact Q Space Detox today to learn more about our welcoming and dual diagnosis treatment for LGBTQ+ patients. We offer comprehensive care in a secure and supportive environment where you can focus on healing from the inside out. You will find the guidance and resources at Inspire Recovery to help you achieve lasting sobriety.

Get in touch with us today at 305-745-7768 to begin your journey toward a healthier, happier life.​​​