The LGBTQ community faces greater challenges in overcoming the addiction epidemic. Factors such as isolation from family and peers, a history of mental health issues, substance use disorders, and victimization such as bullying and violence put members of the LGBTQ community at significant risk (Haas et al., 2010).
In addition, the LGBTQ community continues to struggle with harassment, discrimination and bias by peers, family, colleagues, workplaces, houses of worship, schools, places of public accommodation and health care settings (GLAAD, 2018).
It is estimated that 15.1 % of LGBTQ adults had an alcohol or illicit drug use disorder in the past year compared with 7.8 % of heterosexual adults (SAMHSA, 2015).
LGTBQ adults are 2 times more likely to attempt suicide compared to other adults (King et al., 2008).
The National Center for Transgender Equality states that among transgender adults, the lifetime prevalence of suicide attempts is 40% (Herman et al., 2016).
In 2015, more than 4.5 times as many LGBTQ-identified high school students reported attempting suicide in the past 12 months compared to non-LGB students (29.4% vs 6.4%). In addition, 42.8% of LGBTQ youth seriously considered suicide. (Kann et al., 2015).
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At Jade, we effectively serve our LGBTQ community through understanding the cultural dynamics and diversity that makes each one of us unique. Through positive, inclusive treatment and an affirming staff, Jade ensures that LGBTQ clients receive the superior care that everyone deserves.
Jade utilizes “minority stress treatment principles” when helping LGBTQ individuals. This minimizes the impact of stigma and discrimination that often antagonizes mental health and substance abuse.
At Jade, we strive to provide gender-affirming treatment to the Trans Community. Many transgender people experience gender dysphoria at some point in their lives.
While gender dysphoria is a diagnosis listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), transgender identity is not in the DSM-5, and should not be considered a form of psychopathology.
For most transgender people with or without mental health issues, gender dysphoria is alleviated by achieving a satisfactory level of affirmation of their gender identity through social, legal, and/or evidence-informed gender-affirming health services (Fenway Institute, 2018).
Fluctuations in gender identity and expression are common. Some individuals in the process of discovering their gender identity will eventually identify a single identity; others will have a non-binary gender identity with expression and identity that may or may not vary over time (Fenway Institute, 2018).
Our programming offers support as you begin to conceptualize your identity in a safe and supportive environment.
