LGBTQ+ Group Therapy For Substance Abuse at Bedrock

There is evidence to suggest that substance use and mental illness occur at higher rates among those in the LGBTQ+ community due to early life experiences and ongoing discrimination.

Those in the LGBTQ+ community who are in substance use treatment present with more complex needs, including higher instances of mental health dual diagnosis, poor physical health, and increased severity of substance use.

Bedrock Recovery Center provides LGBTQ+-friendly group therapy specialties to help these individuals receive quality substance abuse treatment.

The LGBTQ+ Experience In The United States

While members of the LGBTQ+ community are becoming more accepted in recent times, many individuals continue to face discrimination and stigma in their personal lives, in the workplace, and in public.

The experience of discrimination, including homophobia and transphobia, often leads to adverse consequences that affect the individual’s financial, mental, and physical wellness.

Young adults reported experiencing higher levels of discrimination, with the effects being most pronounced among transgender individuals, individuals of color, and disabled people.

Many LGBTQ+ Americans, especially young adults, may hide their relationships or alter their work or personal lives to avoid discrimination.

The Connection Between Prejudice And Substance Abuse

Prejudice and discrimination contribute to mental illness rates and substance use issues while preventing some people from getting the help they need.

Research has demonstrated a strong link between exposure to trauma such as long-term verbal abuse, child abuse, and other traumatic events to substance use problems and mental health disorders.

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is also a severe mental illness that puts individuals at an increased risk of developing a substance use disorder and is present at higher rates in the LGBTQ+ community.

Substance use also worsens the symptoms of BDD and may contribute to poor treatment outcomes.

Core Components Of LGBTQ+ Group Therapy At Bedrock

The core components of LGBTQ+ group therapy at Bedrock Recovery Center include psychoeducation, empowerment, culturally competent care, and creating a supportive community.

These components aid in gaining an understanding and insight into interpersonal dynamics, improving self-esteem and a sense of self-worth, and expanding upon social skills.

At Bedrock, group therapy may also be combined with other treatments such as detox, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), family therapy, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), and mindfulness exercises.

Psychoeducation

Psychoeducation is an evidence-based practice that focuses on a specific topic related to mental health issues and addiction.

Psychoeducation helps individuals to build a better understanding of the topic.

It encourages individuals to ask questions, share their personal experiences, and apply this knowledge to their recovery efforts.

Empowerment

The incorporation of empowerment in behavioral health treatment has been found to be effective in creating positive recovery outcomes for LGBTQ individuals.

Both intrapersonal and cognitive psychological empowerment were associated with lower rates of substance use in a 30-day period.

Culturally Competent Care

Studies show that LGBTQ and transgender individuals are at a higher risk for substance use problems and co-occurring disorders than their heterosexual counterparts.

Treatment facilities and providers must identify the unique needs of these individuals and provide culturally sensitive programs that will be successful in retaining these individuals in alcohol or drug rehab.

Culturally competent treatment services for an LGBTQ individual include care that targets the specific population, provides social and structural equality of care, and avoids stigma and discrimination.

Creating A Supportive Community

LGBTQ group therapy allows individuals to build interpersonal skills and develop social support networks with individuals who have similar life experiences.

This social support may aid in reducing isolation and stigma associated with the LGBTQ community and substance use treatment.

Group therapy also provides emotional support for individuals while they undergo treatment and provides crucial support after the completion of the initial treatment stages.

Group therapy may be provided as an inpatient treatment program, outpatient treatment, or as part of residential treatment plans.

Learn About Addiction Treatment For LGBTQ+ People In Massachusetts

If you or a loved one want to learn more about treatment providers that specialize in addiction treatment for LGBTQ+ individuals, we can help.

Contact Bedrock Recovery Center to learn more information about our treatment centers, LGBTQ+ groups, and our approach to treatment.