Substance use disorders (SUDs) are fairly widespread among all American adults. However, some of the nation’s
communities suffer from these disorders more than others. The list of excessively affected communities includes LGBTQ+ adults. What’s more, many LGBTQ+ Americans are in need of more than one form of substance use disorder treatment. That’s true because they’re affected by polysubstance abuse. In other words, they have multiple drug or alcohol problems. Effective treatment for polysubstance abuse requires targeted help for each problem affecting you.
Looking for LGBTQ+-focused polysubstance addiction treatment in greater Minneapolis? Talk to the local professionals at Pride Institute. We specialize in providing high-quality rehab services to the LGBTQ+ community. That includes extensive resources for the treatment of polysubstance abuse disorders. We’re committed to helping you recover from each SUD affecting you. For more information about your treatment options, call Pride Institute at 952.934.7554 or connect with us online.
Defining Polysubstance Use and Abuse
On any given day, tens of millions of Americans drink or take addictive drugs or medications. Some people only use one such substance. But the use of multiple substances is also common.
What are the potential consequences of polysubstance use? Excessive intake of even one addictive substance can leave you affected by an SUD. It also introduces the possibility of experiencing a drug or alcohol overdose. Risks for both of these issues are magnified by polysubstance use and abuse. Not only can you develop multiple forms of SUD. In addition, you can:
- Heighten your overdose risks by exposing yourself to certain substance interactions
- Boost your chances of experiencing other kinds of serious side effects
- Expose yourself to unpredictable changes in your physical or mental function
- Decrease your ability to notice the actual harmful effects of any given substance
You may be fully aware that you’re using multiple substances. However, it’s also possible to unknowingly involve yourself in polysubstance use/abuse.
The Scope of the Substance Abuse Problem in the LGBTQ+ Community
LGBTQ+ Americans have unusually high risks for dangerous polysubstance use. What explains this reality? Research shows that several underlying factors are involved, including:
- The impact of discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community
- A lack of adequate support networks
- High levels of food insecurity
- A relative lack of income
Not everyone is affected by all of these issues. However, they’re common enough to increase risks within the community as a whole.
The Importance of Polysubstance Abuse Treatment
Some people who abuse multiple substances are affected by clinical addiction. Others are not addicted. Still, their substance use causes them serious distress and disrupts their ability to function. Both of these issues fall under the general heading of SUD.
Polysubstance addiction treatment typically begins with drug and alcohol detox. Detox helps you withdraw from the substances in your system. It also helps you avoid any potential withdrawal setbacks.
Whether or not you’re addicted, recovery also requires active rehab. The rehab process includes therapy that helps you return to stable sobriety. If you have opioids or alcohol in your system, it may also include medication. Effective polysubstance abuse treatment is fully individualized. It provides targeted help for every SUD affecting you. This is essential to helping you regain your daily function.
Seek LGBTQ+ Polysubstance Abuse Treatment at Pride Institute
Polysubstance abuse treatment is a crucial resource for many Americans. That includes a significant percentage of the LGBTQ+ community. Effective treatment not only helps you recover from SUDs. It also helps you limit your overdose risks.
At Pride Institute, we feature LGBTQ+ polysubstance abuse treatment. Our inclusive approach allows you to recover in a welcoming, supportive environment. It also upholds our overall goal of providing quality care. Do you or your loved one need help? Just call us today at 952.934.7554. You can also complete our online form.
