Several different addiction treatment plans are available for you and your loved ones. Intensive outpatient programs for addiction (IOPs for addiction) are options for patients who do not require a residential program. For many, IOPs can be a step-down after completing a residential program. Luckily, several LGBTQ-inclusive IOPs are available for those who may benefit from them. If you have any questions about La Fuente Hollywood Recovery’s queer-inclusive IOPs, reach out today at 888.903.9898 to have them answered.
What Is an IOP?
Intensive outpatient programs are treatment programs designed to address and treat addictions, eating disorders, or other issues that do not require constant surveillance. IOPs allow patients to go about their daily lives while also giving them the tools to succeed. There are many benefits to IOPs, but they are not for everybody. IOPs mainly help those who have a safe home environment, one without drugs or alcohol, and do not require the intensity of a residential program.
LGBTQ and Recovery
Those in the LGBTQ community are at a statistically higher risk for substance use disorder development than those who do not claim to be part of the community. Even though it has changed substantially over the years, sexual minorities are still an underrepresented group both socially and politically and therefore continue to experience bigotry and stigma. Some LGBTQ-specific issues need to be addressed within a treatment program. Some examples are:
Co-Occurring Disorders
Research has shown that sexual minorities diagnosed with substance use disorder are more likely to have a co-occurring disorder. Examples of co-occurring disorders in LGBTQ patients are depression, self-harm, suicidal ideations, low self-esteem, and anxiety. Transgender youth have higher rates of depression, suicidality, and eating disorders than those who are not transgender.
Discrimination
Discrimination and stigma can include exclusionary government policies, social rejection from family or friends, hate crimes, harassment, interpersonal violence, and barriers to access to healthcare or housing and employment. Substance use is one of the most stigmatized health conditions globally, forcing patients to feel even more isolated than they already did.
Healthcare Inequalities
LGBTQ individuals are more likely to receive poor quality care due to stigma, lack of healthcare providers’ awareness or training, and insensitivity to an individual’s unique needs. At La Fuente Hollywood, we ensure that nobody is discriminated against during their time with us.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
LGBTQ individuals can be at a higher risk of sexually transmitted disease and infection. LGBTQ intensive outpatient programs should avoid further stigmatizing infections or diseases.
Homelessness
An estimated 20-40% of youth who run away from home are part of the LGBTQ+ community. Being homeless often places youth in high-risk environments for substance abuse.
Why Choose an LGBTQ Inclusive Intensive Outpatient Program?
There is an extremely high number of LGTBQ individuals who have experienced physical and verbal abuse because of their identity. Because of this, queer-inclusive IOPs can be an excellent place for individuals to feel safe and supported during their recovery. LGBTQ-inclusive IOPs can connect you to other individuals going through similar struggles and even help you find safe environments to live in if you do not already have access to one. A safe environment allows you to focus on your addiction treatment and recovery.
There can also be sensitivity around gender and pronouns. Awareness around gendered spaces can facilitate a sense of security and acceptance that is necessary for somebody to allow themselves to recover fully.
LGBTQ-Inclusive IOP at La Fuente Hollywood Recovery
Finding a space where you feel safe and supported can be difficult when undergoing an addiction. At La Fuente Recovery, we are committed to ensuring that our patients feel safe and respected on their journey to recovery. Reach out to us today to discuss our LGBTQ-inclusive IOP options at 888.903.9898.
