LGBTQ+ individuals face unique challenges when it comes to living with bipolar disorder. Many of these challenges can be addressed through specialized treatment, including therapies tailored to LGBTQ+ needs and medication management plans that account for potential interactions between hormones and psychiatric medications. Additionally, providers should strive to create a comfortable space where LGBTQ+ individuals feel accepted and respected.

If you or a loved one is experiencing a mental health condition, you may benefit from understanding more about LGBTQ+-centered co-occurring disorders treatment. Contact Pride Institute today at 888.408.1625 or online for more information.

Bipolar Disorder, Substance Use Disorder, and Co-occurring Disorders: What You Need to Know

When searching for help for yourself or a loved one, you may run into many terms being used to describe aspects of mental health, behavioral health, and treatment. Understanding these terms can help you feel empowered to make choices that will work for you and your family. Some of these terms are:

• Bipolar disorder – Bipolar disorder is a serious mental health condition that is characterized by significant mood swings that are not necessarily connected to external events. There are several different types of bipolar disorder, meaning that not every person will experience the disorder in the same way.
• Substance use disorder – Substance use disorder is a complex condition in which a person struggles to control their use of a substance (such as drugs or alcohol) even though the substance use is disruptive and causes negative consequences.
• Co-occurring disorders – This is a term used in the mental and behavioral health field to describe a situation in which a person is experiencing a mental health condition as well as a substance use disorder.

No matter the severity of the condition, help is available through professional treatment.

Treatment for Bipolar Disorder and Substance Use Disorder

Both bipolar disorder and substance use disorder are chronic but treatable conditions. People who are living with both of these conditions at the same time can best benefit from treatment that addresses both conditions. Although one or the other may seem to be most dominant at a particular moment, mental health and substance abuse can feed into each other. Clients that are receiving treatment for co-occurring disorders need help to stabilize and manage their conditions, as well as support and care that can help them get into and maintain recovery.

LGBTQ+ Bipolar Disorder Treatment: How Is It Different?

Although now more than ever, treatment centers are welcoming to people of all orientations and identities, members of the LGBTQ+ community have special, unique needs when it comes to mental health and recovery care. Seeking treatment at a program that has been specifically designed with the needs of the LGBTQ+ community in mind can allow clients to focus on their recovery while feeling comfortable being their authentic selves. At an LGBTQ+ bipolar disorder treatment center, staff and peers understand the experiences and circumstances unique to the community and are inclusive to all.

Pride Institute: Offering LGBTQ+ Bipolar Disorder Treatment in Minneapolis

Since 1986, Pride Institute has been serving the recovery care needs of the LGBTQ+ community at our treatment centers in Minneapolis and Eden Prairie, Minnesota. Our clients have access to a wide range of programming, including treatment for co-occurring disorders, at every level of care. We are proud of our clients, especially our vibrant alumnx community, who are living proof that, with appropriate treatment and support, recovery is possible. If you or a loved one has been living with a mental health condition, and substance use is also an issue, don’t wait to get help. The best time to seek treatment is right now, so reach out to our caring and compassionate staff today at 888.408.1625 or online and learn how we can help you start your journey back to well-being.