According to the Trevor Project, the rates of suicide deaths and substance use have both increased among LGBTQ youth in the last 10 years.1 Offering adolescent treatment programs specifically for young people who identify as LGBTQ is a significant step in supporting youth who feel uncomfortable in heteronormative communities.
LGBTQ adolescent residential treatment centers provide a safe place for gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans, and queer youth to share their unique struggles with others who understand. To learn more about our LGBTQ adolescent treatment programs, call Foothills at Red Oak Recovery® at 828.519.5047.
The Need for LGBTQ Adolescent Residential Treatment
The fear of discrimination can discourage anyone from receiving necessary mental health help. This is even more true for young people who don’t have the life experience or confidence of adults. One reason for the higher rate of mental health and substance use concerns among LGBTQ youth is the stigma and discrimination they experience.
Young people in this community may turn to substance use as a way to cope with discrimination. The isolation and anxiety that sometimes shape the life of an LGBTQ youth can lead to mental health concerns like depression.
When a young person does experience a mental health downturn, reaching out for help is difficult. Finding a therapist or a program where they feel accepted, safe, and cared for is an extra obstacle that can feel insurmountable.
The treatment professionals at an LGBTQ mental health residential treatment center are already familiar with the struggles their clients have faced, including the following:
- Judgment from peers
- Rejection by family of origin
- Exclusion from social groups and activities
- Rejection from church or spiritual community
- Public ridicule
- Physical abuse
- Violence based on sexual orientation or gender identification
Programs specializing in providing LGBTQ adolescent treatment services have staff who are trained to address these areas. In some cases, staff members are also part of the LGBTQ community themselves and can directly connect with their clients’ fears and struggles.
Incorporating discussions and finding solutions to these types of issues is a critical element of the overall therapeutic process. It’s also part of what makes LGBTQ programs so essential.
What to Expect From LGBTQ Mental Health Residential Treatment
The ability to build rapport with staff and peers at a residential program can increase a client’s chances of recovery. LGBTQ youth are more likely to accomplish that when they feel safe, accepted, and understood.
An LGBTQ adolescent treatment program allows young people to feel more at ease. This can lead to a greater level of honesty and introspection during the treatment process.
In addition to emotional comfort, parents and young clients can expect the same high level of medical and mental health care that is provided in general residential programs. Our LGBTQ adolescent residential treatment program includes:
- Psychological testing
- Meals
- Lodging
- Continued education
- Individual, group, and family therapy
- Experiential therapy, such as equine therapy
- Treatment for co-occurring issues
- Trauma treatment
Every client, regardless of gender identification or sexual orientation, is given a customized, comprehensive treatment plan that addresses the needs of the whole person, not just their mental health concern.
Speak With an Admissions Expert About Adolescent Treatment Programs at Foothills at Red Oak Recovery®
Do you know an LGBTQ youth who is struggling with a mental health or addiction disorder? Finding a program that is specifically for LGBTQ adolescent treatment could literally save their lives.
At Foothills at Red Oak Recovery®, we understand that young people who identify as LGBTQ have unique needs. Our programs have helped thousands of young people overcome their addiction disorders and embrace the bright futures they deserve. Use our online contact form or call Foothills at Red Oak Recovery® at 828.519.5047 today to speak with an admissions expert.
Source:
1. The Trevor Project – Substance Use and Suicide Risk Among LGBTQ Youth
