6 Reasons to Choose an LGBTQIA+ Friendly Rehab in Los Angeles

Quality care is about more than receiving basic treatment. Sometimes, a patient needs personalized help for the challenges they face. In the case of LGBTQIA+ patients, standard rehab centers may not offer the specialized help that is needed. In this case,  an LGBTQIA+ friendly rehab is the best option. 

Finding an LGBTQIA+ drug rehab is the right choice for patients to receive treatment designed to meet their needs. In this piece, we’ll explore the benefits of LGBTQIA+ treatment and explain 6 reasons why it’s so crucial. 

1. The LGBTQIA+ Community Faces Unique Challenges With Substance Use Disorder

The LGBTQIA+ community has experienced decades of discrimination, historical stigma, and shame. Stressors such as homophobia, transphobia, family problems, violence, and social isolation are some of the damaging effects of this discrimination. These challenges correlate with higher rates of substance use and struggles with mental health.

For example, in the 2021 and 2022 National Surveys on Drug Use and Health, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) found substance use and mental illness was often twice as common with lesbian, gay, and bisexual adults than with straight adults.

The surveys also found that lesbian and bisexual people were 2 to 3 times more likely than straight people to have used illicit drugs other than marijuana in the past year. In the case of marijuana, gay and bisexual men were nearly twice as likely to use it than straight men.

These higher rates demand specialized care and rehabs where staff are trained in accommodating LGBTQIA+ needs.

2. LGBTQIA+ Rehab Is More Welcoming than Standard Care

Because LGBTQIA+ patients have unique needs and experiences, rehabs that are not specialized may not provide adequate care. For example, an LGBTQIA+ recovery center can ensure transgender patients are housed with their gender identity, a concern that a standard rehab center may not consider.

At an LGBTQIA+ friendly center, patients don’t face the burden or worry of encountering homophobia or transphobia from staff members or other patients. These patients receive technical care specific to their struggles. Evidence suggests that LGBTQIA+ people in specialized recovery care show better outcomes than those in non-specialized programs.

“At an LGBTQIA+ rehab, patients are guaranteed treatment and support.”

3. LGBTQIA+ Patients Can Find Support They May Not Receive From Family or Friends

In the 2021 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health, the Trevor Project found that over 28% of LGBTQIA+ youth reported experiencing homelessness or housing instability at some point in their lives. Even worse, these youth also reported higher rates of mental health issues. It’s a sad truth, but unfortunately, not an uncommon one. Many LGBTQIA+ people face stigma from their family, friends, and loved ones.

At an LGBTQIA+ drug rehab, patients are guaranteed treatment and support. They don’t encounter the disproportionately high amount of psychological distress that they may face in day-to-day life. Instead, these patients have a safe space and time to heal.

5. LGBTQIA+ Rehab Connects Patients to a Community

At a standard rehab center, an LGBTQIA+ patient will still receive basic care, such as inpatient or outpatient treatment. However, due to a lack of specialized programming, other patients won’t necessarily share or understand their experiences. However, at treatment centers with LGBTQIA+ rehab, a patient will meet peers going through the same struggles.

It’s been clinically proven that when a patient feels less alone, they are more able to overcome the guilt and shame of addiction. Group therapy at an LGBTQIA+ rehab center will connect patients with people who share similar experiences, drawing together as a supportive community.

6. LGBTQIA+ Patients Can Find Support Better Tailored To Their Needs

A recent study examining differences in health between LGBTQIA+ and straight individuals found that caregivers should be sensitive to the needs of LGBTQIA+ patients. For example, an LGBTQIA+ rehab understands the importance of screening patients for co-occurring mental health issues or dual diagnosis. LGBTQIA+ individuals have higher rates of mental health disorders, which require separate treatment to properly address substance use and mental health disorders.

When LGBTQIA+ patients receive treatment that accommodates their unique situations, they are better able to recover. At an LGBTQIA+ drug rehab, patients will be given the tools and treatments unique to them. These patients have a safe space to work through their problems and start their journeys to recovery.

Find LGBTQIA+ Drug Rehab in Los Angeles at SoberMind Recovery

From the outside, LGBTQIA+ rehab might look exactly like any other. But to its patients, it is much more. By offering treatment that understands the unique struggles of the LGBTQIA+ community, these rehab centers care for patients far more effectively. As a result, these individuals are better able to recover.

If you or a loved one is struggling with substance use disorder, there is no shame in asking for help. At SoberMind Recovery, you’ll receive state-of-the-art care specialized to fit your needs.  Whether you’re looking for Dual Diagnosis care in Los Angeles or LGBTQIA+ drug rehab, our Los Angeles facility has something for everyone. Call our toll-free number today to learn more about our specialized treatment programs for LGBTQIA+ patients. Together, we’ll help you feel supported, safe, and comfortable.