June is Pride Month, a time when minority groups come together to celebrate the freedom to be themselves. For decades, sexual minorities have struggled to overcome prejudice and be accepted for who they are. While things are certainly far from perfect, society is making progress in achieving equal justice and opportunity for members of the LGBTQ+ community.
If you just completed drug or alcohol rehab in Arizona, you might be wondering how you can celebrate without compromising your recovery. Below you’ll find more information about substance use in the LGBTQ+ population and sober ways to celebrate.
Substance Use in the LGBTQ+ Community
People who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or questioning often face discrimination, stigma and other challenges that others do not. Due to these stressors, sexual minorities are at an increased risk for behavioral health issues, including substance use.
In the U.S., 18.7 million people age 18 or older have a substance use disorder. People who identify as gay or lesbian are more than twice as likely as heterosexuals to have a severe alcohol use disorder. People who identify as bisexual are three times as likely to have a substance use disorder. And those who are unsure how to identify are five times as likely to struggle with substance use.
It’s clear that the LGBTQ+ population has a higher prevalence of substance use due to the social stigma and harassment they face. Fortunately, more Arizona rehab centers are offering tailored tracks of care for sexual minorities who are dealing with substance use problems. These programs take into the account the unique challenges that LGBTQ+ individuals face.
How to Celebrate Pride Month – Sober!
If you recently completed drug rehab in Arizona, you may be worried about balancing Pride Month celebrations and your recovery. Don’t worry – there are plenty of ways that you can celebrate this month while staying true to your goals!
- Find local Pride events. Communities all over the world hold Pride events during the month of June. Find local parades, festivals, guest speakers, etc. in your area. While these events may not be exclusively sober, they are structured and tend to have fewer influences.
- Attend virtual events. If you’re more comfortable staying home, attend a virtual event instead. There are workshops, speakers, team building activities and more – and the temptation to drink will be far less.
- Host your own party. If you want to celebrate without temptation, consider hosting your own Pride party! You’re in control, so you can choose your guest list carefully.
- Volunteer. Now that you are sober, you can give back to your community during Pride Month. Look into volunteer activities where you can support other members of the LGBTQ+ community, including people who are just coming out.
Our Rehab Centers in Arizona Support LGBTQ+ Individuals
Wolf Creek Recovery is an outpatient rehabilitation center that helps individuals overcome their substance use and mental health problems. We strongly support the LGBTQ+ community and know how to treat the unique challenges that they face.
Our team is aware that many sexual minorities find their safe haven in gay and lesbian bars and clubs, but this can unfortunately start the cycle of substance use. To get the help and support you need to accept your sexual orientation and stop the cycle of self-medication, contact Wolf Creek Recovery. Our treatment center in AZ is here for you!
Finding purpose in pain is what Jonathon does best. He is a strong advocate for those suffering from substance use disorders. As a person in recovery, Jonathon knows how important it is to receive empathy and compassion. He recognizes that each person comes from a different set of circumstances and deserves to be valued and respected.
With a fresh perspective and compassionate attitude, Jonathon works closely with clients to help them let go of the past and know when to take necessary risks. The recovery process is ongoing, which means people need to move forward while applying the skills learned in treatment. Jonathon is a great motivator when it comes time for this!
Jonathon also places emphasis on the family unit and how it can make or break the recovery experience. Individuals with active, supportive families have far better outcomes. Jonathon realizes that it’s impossible to move mountains overnight, but with the right support team and positive attitude, anything is possible.
