Unfortunately, due to the stigma surrounding mental health and substance use disorders, many LGBTQ folks don’t seek treatment. In addition, many mental health and substance abuse treatment providers are not trained to deal with the unique needs of the LGBTQ community. As a result, the LGBTQ community has a higher rate of untreated mental health and substance use disorders. Mile High Recovery dual diagnosis treatment center is a reference in the LGBTQ community. Get help today- call 303-268-2144 for LGBTQ dual diagnosis.
What Is Dual Diagnosis?
Dual diagnosis is the term used to describe when someone suffers from both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder.
With dual diagnosis, the mental health disorder and the substance use disorder are both diagnosed and treated at the same time. This is important because the two disorders often feed off of each other.
Symptoms of Dual Diagnosis
The symptoms of dual diagnosis can vary depending on the individual’s specific mental health disorder and substance abuse disorder. However, there are some common symptoms that are associated with LGBTQ dual diagnosis, such as:
- Withdrawal from friends and family
- Loss of interest in hobbies and activities
- Changes in eating or sleeping habits
- Increased anxiety or depression
- Irritability or mood swings
- Difficulty concentrating
- Engaging in risky behaviors
Why Is LGBTQ Dual Diagnosis More Common?
There are a number of factors that contribute to the higher prevalence of mental health disorders and substance abuse disorders in the LGBTQ community. Let’s go over some of the most common causes of LGBTQ dual diagnosis.
Discrimination
One reason is that many LGBTQ folks suffer from mental health disorders and substance abuse is because of the discrimination and bigotry they face on a daily basis. In addition, many LGBTQ folks turn to substances to cope with the pain of living in a heteronormative and cis-normative society.
Social Isolation
Social isolation can occur when an individual feels like they don’t belong to any social group or when they feel like they are not accepted by their family, friends, or community. Social isolation can also occur when an individual cannot find or maintain a romantic or sexual relationship.
Lack of Social Support
The fear of a reaction from family members and friends can make LGBTQ folks feel isolated and alone. A lack of social support/network can occur when individuals don’t have anyone to talk to about their problems or don’t feel like anyone understands them, leading to substance abuse and mental health disorders.
What Are the Benefits of Dual Diagnosis LGBTQ Treatment?
Dual diagnosis LGBTQ treatment is important because it can help individuals struggling with both a mental health disorder and a substance abuse disorder.
Some of the benefits of dual diagnosis LGBTQ treatment include:
- Improved mental health
- Reduced substance abuse
- Increased sense of social support
- Greater access to resources
- Improved physical health
- Reduced stigma
Mile High Recovery: The Right Dual Diagnosis Center for the LGBTQ Community
When it comes to LGBTQ dual diagnosis treatment, it is crucial to find a dual diagnosis center that understands the unique needs of the LGBTQ community and provides affirming care.
Mile High Recovery is a dual diagnosis center that specializes in treating the unique needs of the LGBTQ community. Our treatment center is LGBTQ-friendly and provides:
- Safe and welcoming environment: Our staff is trained in LGBTQ-competent care, and the center has policies that are inclusive of LGBTQ folks.
- Access resources: We have extensive programs and services designed to meet what is necessary for you to live a healthy and happy sober life.
- Affirming care: The care you receive at the dual diagnosis center should affirm your LGBTQ identity. That is why we are welcoming you to start your sobriety journey with us.
If you or someone you know is struggling with a dual diagnosis, please contact Mile High Recovery at 303-268-2144.