In terms of a person’s sense of identity, sexual orientation refers to their sexual preference as heterosexual, gay, or bisexual. For instance, the most common designations in the United States are lesbians, gay men, and men or women who are attracted to both sexes. In counseling, a therapist who is skilled, compassionate, and nonjudgmental works with those individuals to help them solve issues or help them abstain from drug abuse (Baams et al., 2018). However, in substance abuse counseling, a counselor should be very mindful while handling sexual orientation individuals due to the upcoming reasons.
Firstly, lesbians, gay men, and bisexual (LGB) people receiving substance abuse treatment have significant differences in their mental and physical health. Sexual orientation is a determinant of mental and physical health status. Thus higher percentages of LGB people had previously been diagnosed with mental illness, and more LGB people admitted to taking psychiatric drugs. Additionally, it was more common for gay and bisexual men and women to be receiving mental health care (Baams et al., 2018). Therefore, LGB people should consequently receive treatment that addresses their co-occurring mental health needs as well as continuity of care within drug and alcohol rehab.
Secondly, the fact that more than half of lesbian and bisexual women started their treatment with a mental health diagnosis emphasizes how crucial it is to address co-occurring mental health issues in this group. Since almost two-thirds of gay and bisexual men started treatment with a mental health diagnosis, the rates of prior mental health issues among this population were indeed notable (Baams et al., 2018). As a result, for between half and two-thirds of LGB individuals seeking substance abuse treatment programs, the requirement for counseling and treatment that addresses both substance use and co-occurring illnesses is crucial among this demographic and is a necessary service rather than a supplementary one (Baams et al., 2018).
In conclusion, sexual orientation affects both physical and mental health status, and LGB people in drug and alcohol rehab suffer from serious physical and mental health issues. As a result, LGB individuals should receive treatment that takes into account their co-occurring mental health needs and provides continuity of care within drug and alcohol rehab. Furthermore, they need counseling and care that addresses both substance abuse and co-occurring diseases.
Reference
Baams, L., De Luca, S., & Brownson, C. (2018). Use of mental health services among college students by sexual orientation. LGBT Health, 5(7), 421-430.