People in the LGBTQ community face unique challenges in addiction and recovery. Before choosing a rehab in the Boston area, we recommend verifying that they are LGBTQ-friendly. Inclusivity can really make a difference when it comes to safety, healing, and moving forward. Deciding to seek treatment for drug or alcohol addiction might be the hardest decision of your life, but it is a choice that might end up saving your life. Reach out to our medical professionals online or call 877.920.6583 today to discuss which of our Boston rehab centers is right for you.
The Unique Challenges of LGBTQ People In Rehab
Individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer may have experienced discrimination or other challenges that make abstaining from drugs difficult. These challenges can cause people to turn to drug use, addiction, and recovery that can make finding and receiving addiction treatment difficult. Some of these barriers can include:
- Discrimination
- Social stigma
- Fear
- Abuse
Even deep into the 21st century, continued prejudice against LGBTQ+ people can make it difficult for them to seek the rehab and treatment they need and deserve to receive.
LGBTQ Inclusivity
Providing top-quality care for people regardless of their gender identity is our priority. Thankfully, there are LGBTQ-friendly rehab centers in Boston like Greater Boston Addiction Centers. Historically, many transgender people have been reluctant to enroll in health coverage plans if those plans exclude health services like hormone therapy and surgical procedures. They may also have to face limited access to preventative gender-specific services such as PAP tests or mammograms. Stigma, intolerance, and discrimination are some of the highest barriers to substance abuse prevention and treatment in the LGBTQ+ community.
These harmful barriers minimize exposure to not only healthy role models but also to access to the many LGBTQ+-supportive resources and substance-free outlets that exist today. These artificial and dangerous hurdles also contribute to the alienation of LGBTQ+ people, which can increase the risk of substance abuse. It is important then that the rehab center in Boston, Massachusetts, you choose offers specialized programs which meet the unique treatment needs of LGBTQ-friendly people.
The Struggle of LGBTQ People In Rehab
Finding Boston rehab centers that respect and love you for who you are is essential to recovering from your addiction. This is because LGBTQ+ individuals who are in therapy report feeling:
- Lonely
- Anxious
- Angry
- Fearful
- Depressed
- Distrustful
Sadly, some individuals in the LGBTQ community are more likely to face rejection and be ostracized from society and within their families. These negative experiences increase the risk of mental health issues that can be a one-way street toward substance use and addiction.
At Greater Boston Addiction Centers, our staff is compassionate, trained, and inclusive. You will get the professional medical help you deserve in a setting that is safe and comfortable. This environment fosters personal growth and sobriety. LGBTQ individuals may be more likely to suffer from higher rates of mental health disorders than the general population due to prevalent discrimination and prejudice in many parts of the U.S. A dual diagnosis program may be necessary to identify co-occurring disorders contributing to your mental health or drug use disorder.
Learn More at Greater Boston Addiction Centers
If you are ready to get clean, our LGBTQ-friendly addiction treatment centers in Massachusetts can be the starting point to create a fuller, happier life for yourself. If you feel trapped by drugs and alcohol, we are excited to welcome you into a life of community and recovery. It might feel impossible now, but recovery is worth the work. Contact us using our secure online form or call us confidentially at 877.920.6583 today.
