Why Is Substance Abuse And Addiction So Prevalent Among The LGBTQI+ Community?

Even in the face of its seriousness, suicidal ideation often goes undiscussed because of the stigma that can surround it. But, as we're talking more and more openly about mental health, it's essential that we approach the subject of suicidal thoughts with as much empathy, openness, and support as possible. If you find yourself grappling with these thoughts, or if you're trying to understand and support someone you care about who is, this guide is for you.  Suicide prevention support If you're thinking about acting on suicidal thoughts, reach out for help immediately.  Call 911 if you’re having a mental health emergency. Text HOME to 741-741 if you're emotionally distressed and need immediate support. Call 988 for the National Suicide Prevention Hotline. What is suicidal ideation? Suicidal ideation transcends mere fleeting thoughts about death; it's a whole range of thinking that might start with not wanting to wake up and can go all the way to planning how to end one's life. Often accompanied by a sense of hopelessness, these intrusive thoughts can be potentially dangerous. Despite the severity, feeling this way doesn't have to be permanent. Instead, these thoughts can be a signal that indicates deeper psychological distress and emotional pain that need to be addressed.  The prevalence of intrusive thoughts  While it can feel isolating to experience, this mental health condition affects many. Every year, millions of people report these thoughts to medical professionals. Between 2015 and 2019, the CDC found that an estimated annual average of 10.6 million U.S. adults had thoughts of suicide in the past year, which accounted for about 4.3% of the adult population. Intrusive thoughts don't discriminate — depression can affect individuals of any age, gender, education level, socioeconomic status, or background. Suicidal ideation is part of a broader mental health landscape; it’s not a ‘character flaw.’  What causes suicidal thoughts? The causes of suicidal ideation are as varied as the individuals who experience it. They often stem from life circumstances, mental health disorders, or personal resilience levels. Common underlying conditions can include:  Major depressive disorder Bipolar disorder Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Social isolation Chronic pain Substance use disorder Understanding the warning signs of suicidal ideation in others For friends and family, recognizing the warning signs for suicide is paramount for timely intervention. The signals can look similar to the signs of depression and anxiety, but are typically more severe. Look for these behaviors: Withdrawal from social circles  Giving away possessions Sudden calmness after a period of depression Statements of feeling hopeless or having no purpose  Remember: Not everyone exhibits clear ‘red flags,’ and a person at risk might go to great lengths to hide their pain. How is suicidal ideation diagnosed? Identifying suicidal ideation typically occurs during a supportive conversation with a mental health expert. These caring professionals will talk with a patient, sometimes using questionnaires, to better understand their feelings and the severity of the thoughts they're facing.  They will also look for any underlying mental health conditions or life experiences that may be contributing to or exacerbating the intrusive thoughts. The recognition of suicidal ideation is less about certainty and more about concern. The presence of suicidal ideation often prompts an immediate need for intervention, regardless of other diagnoses. It's about recognizing that these feelings are a call for help and responding with the urgent care and support needed. What to do if you are experiencing suicidal ideation When you’re experiencing suicidal ideation, seeking help and taking action are crucial. Getting urgent help Seek help immediately if you're thinking about acting on suicidal thoughts. The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free, confidential support and crisis resources. Your options also include calling 911 or going to the nearest emergency room. No matter what course of urgent help is seen as the best fit at the moment, you will want to seek the support of a mental health professional as soon as possible. That also can be your first step when experiencing distress. Steps to take when it isn’t an emergency If you’re not in immediate danger, these are the first steps you could take toward getting the judgment-free help you deserve. 1. Make an appointment with a mental health professional Professional intervention is crucial in managing the risk of suicide or self harm. A mental health professional will provide a safe space to explore the thoughts and feelings you are experiencing. They can guide you to understanding the factors and strategies to manage your mental well-being effectively. 2. Identify and remove triggers Start by identifying the triggers that lead to these intrusive thoughts. They might be certain places, people, or events that consistently lead to distress. It might not necessarily mean avoiding them permanently, but it can allow for a safer environment while you address this mental health condition. 3. Reach out to a close friend or loved one  You’ll need a strong support system. You may be nervous about opening up, but doing so with a trusted, supportive connection can be a critical step in alleviating the burden, finding relief, and embarking on recovery. 4. Call a suicide hotline If you don’t feel comfortable talking to someone close to you at the time, a suicide hotline can be an invaluable mental health resource. Specialists on these hotlines are trained to support and assist those in crisis.  Managing suicidal ideation is a process; there will be ups and downs. The most crucial thing is to keep moving forward and continue seeking help from mental health resources. Treatment options for suicidal ideation There is no one-size-fits-all approach to treating suicidal ideation. Treatment will vary based on the individual’s needs but may include psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of the two. Hospitalization or intensive outpatient programs may be necessary for those at immediate risk of self-harm.  Additionally, new approaches to reducing suicidal ideation are continually being explored and implemented, often creating expanded access to care.  Treatment goals Regardless of the course of treatment, the focus will be on achieving several key goals. Address the underlying factors contributing to the intrusive thoughts.  Build coping strategies for preventing suicide. Create a support network for the individual.  Individuals will be actively involved in their treatment plan, working collaboratively with their care team. The path to recovery Recovery from suicidal thoughts comes with its own challenges, but many individuals who have once experienced these thoughts have gone on to live fulfilling lives. Recovery often involves finding the right treatment, building a solid support system, and learning healthy coping mechanisms. We know that each person's road to recovery is unique, but it’s important to avoid projecting set timelines or expectations. Celebrating the small victories can make a world of difference. Whether it’s practicing a new coping skill or continuing to seek help, these concrete steps signify resilience and strength. Remember: Patience and consistency in support are key if you’re standing by someone in recovery.  The myth and reality of suicidal thoughts and creativity There is a common misconception that suicidal ideation is a byproduct of creativity. While individuals with artistic inclinations might be predisposed to deeper emotional experiences, it’s crucial not to romanticize or normalize the suffering that comes with suicidal thoughts. The art lies in expressing your emotions in a healthy manner that supports your well-being rather than harming it. Art, writing, and other creative outlets can be a powerful force in recovery. However, these outlets should be harnessed under the guidance of a mental health professional so their benefits can enhance structured therapy and/or medication like anti-depressants or mood stabilizers. The role of community in suicide prevention Support can take many forms, from suicide prevention organizations and support groups to simply being there for someone in need. By building a community that is educated on the warning signs of suicide and the steps to take to support someone in crisis, we can provide a safety net for those who are in need.  Engaging in open, honest conversations about mental health and suicide removes the stigma that often surrounds these topics. Creating a safe space to talk makes it easier for people to seek help and for those around them to provide support. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please know that there is hope and help available. Reach out to a mental health professional, call the national suicide prevention hotline at 988, or talk to someone you trust.  Remind yourself: You are not alone — there are people who care and want to help.  Working to stop suicidal thoughts Cerebral is continuing to make strides in improving clinical quality and safety for those experiencing suicidal ideation. With systems in place to connect you to care quickly in crisis situations, not only can unnecessary emergency room visits and hospitalizations be avoided, but meaningful improvements in symptoms can be made in a short period. Of the patients who come to Cerebral considering suicide, half of the individuals stopped having thoughts of suicide within an average of 6 months of treatment. This highlights the powerful impact of seeking support and the real possibility of regaining a sense of hope and purpose. Critical resources 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline offers free and confidential support via phone, text, or chat. Crisis Text Line allows one to text with a trained crisis counselor for free by texting TALK to 741-741. Veterans Crisis Line enables veterans to get help via text by sending one to 838255. Vets4Warriors provides free, 24/7 peer support for veterans via phone at 855-838-8255 or by email. The Trevor Project offers immediate crisis support for LGBTQ+ youth via phone at 1-866-488-7386 or by texting START to 678-678. Image by rawpixel.com on Freepik.

40 million Americans suffer from a substance use disorder according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Unfortunately, many are not receiving the care they need: 82% of Americans with opioid use disorder do not receive potentially life-saving treatment, and only 7% of adults with alcohol dependence are receiving treatment. The consequences of not receiving treatment are devastating - 75% of overdoses in 2021 were opioid-related and an estimated 99,000 people died from alcohol-related causes in 2020. Substance use disorders also impact the workplace. 75% of employers say their workplace is impacted by opioid misuse, but only 17% feel prepared to deal with the issue. Alcohol use disorder is linked to 232 million missed work days annually.  Substance use disorder is a growing problem that further exacerbates poor mental health, this is why Cerebral is getting involved. Cerebral offers high-quality care for multiple substance use disorders, including opioid use disorder and alcohol use disorder. Cerebral developed these programs in partnership with in-house and external psychiatrists specializing in addiction treatment, and in close collaboration with Cerebral’s CEO and Chief Medical Officer, Dr. David Mou.  Since substance use is highly comorbid with mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, Cerebral has ensured its care programs treat patients comprehensively for all conditions.   “As a high-quality mental health company, it’s critical for us to be able to treat substance use disorders in addition to mental health conditions so that our patients can access a comprehensive solution,” said Dr. David Mou, Cerebral CEO. Further details on Cerebral’s substance use disorder programs are below: Cerebral’s Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) Plan Cerebral’s Opioid Use Disorder plan is a Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) plan with regular care counseling. It is specifically tailored to treat those struggling with opioid dependence. In the MAT plan, patients will be treated for their opioid use with FDA-approved medication like Suboxone, if clinically appropriate. Patients will have a high degree of interaction with their dedicated care team, including an initial 60-minute evaluation, weekly meetings with a prescriber to start, all with the flexibility and convenience of telehealth. 90% of Cerebral’s Opioid Use Disorder members who have been enrolled for at least 3 weeks attended their weekly prescriber sessions on time. 100% of Opioid Use patients who were prescribed medication were able to get their prescriptions filled on time. This is imperative to preventing relapse.  Cerebral currently offers Medication-Assisted Treatment for opioid use in Colorado, Florida, and Washington, and has plans to continue the expansion of this program throughout 2022. Cerebral’s Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) Plan Cerebral’s alcohol use disorder treatment program includes therapy and/or medication management. All members are connected with licensed clinicians to develop a personalized treatment program. These programs include regular appointments with the patient’s care team, as well as in-app messaging, self-guided CBT exercises, and prescription management. Cerebral takes particular care to tailor its treatment to the individual. Cerebral offers care for alcohol dependence in 36 states: Alabama, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, and Wisconsin, and will continue the expansion of this program throughout 2022. If you're in a state that offers Cerebral's OUD or AUD program, start a free assessment to get started.

June is Pride Month! All across the globe  LGBTQ+ communities are coming together to celebrate their decades long struggle to overcome prejudice and be accepted for who they are.. Pride month honors the 1969 Stonewall Uprising in Manhattan, which was a major turning point in the Gay Liberation Movement. Throughout the month, we celebrate those fighting for equality. In addition, we remember those who’ve lost their lives to injustice. Ultimately continuing  to push for the end of discrimination in regard to gender fluidity. Discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community Despite being a deeply personal and individual matter, non-heterosexuality remains under the microscope as a deviation from the standard, an abnormality. Those who identify as LGBTQ+ often find themselves in a place in which they  lack equality, freedom and basic human rights. Many states still offer little to no protection from discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. LGBTQ+ people can still face inequality in employment, housing and public accommodation. Surveys confirm that LGBTQ+ workers face discrimination at work. LGBTQ+ workers of color have reported an increased likelihood of being denied a job. They also experience more verbal harassment and many LGBTQ+ employees still feel the need to “disguise” themselves in the workplace to avoid being mistreated. It can be harder for same-sex couples to adopt children. While reports  reveal horrific discrimination against transgender people. In addition, LGBTQ+ persons often find healthcare providers treat them differently and they receive less access to necessary care.  And this is only the tip of the iceberg… We live in a melting pot of a country, where diversity should ideally be celebrated. And yet, anyone who identifies as something other than heterosexual—as well as gender-fluid people—are at an automatic disadvantage. The ramifications of such can be life altering and have a negative impact on said persons. Sexual minorities have an increased risk for behavioral health issues, often times more leading to increased risk of experiencing  depression and anxiety . Data shows  that adults in the sexual minority  report higher substance use patterns compared to heterosexual adults. Often it is found that use of marijuana, opioids and cigarettes are consumed at a higher rate, which can often lead to more severe substance use disorders.  Ways to support LGBTQ+ individuals There are many simple, practical, yet powerful ways to be an ally for the LGBTQ+ community. Educate yourself. Become  aware of the anti-discrimination laws in your state. In your workplace. Research how local businesses promise to enforce equality. Become aware of the difference between gender and sex. Knowledge is power and the first step in supporting the LGBTQ+ crowd. Use your voice. Demolishing the negative stigma means speaking up when you see something wrong. Have you heard someone use a slur? Offer education on the topic and kindly correct them with the inclusive term. Is a coworker being harassed at work? Don’t sit idly by but bring the situation to the attention of someone in charge. In addition, make sure your coworker is ok and knows you are a safe space for them.. Do you feel like your workplace policies could be improved? Voice your thoughts. Silence is compliance.  Start a group. Does it feel like there’s a lack of safe, supportive places for your LGBTQ community? Take the initiative to start a group yourself. Even a monthly meeting at a coffee shop, restaurant or local library can make a world of difference to people who need the community. Do groups in your area already exist? Attend their events! LGBTQ+ Mental Health Resources While we’ve made strides as a society in providing more support for the LGBTQ+ community, we still have a long way to go but help is available. Here are just a few suggestions of resources available. The It Gets Better Project is a global non-profit. It aims to uplift, empower and connect LGBTQ+ youth across the world. The site provides support, education and a list of events you can attend. There’s also The Trevor Project, which is the world’s largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for young LGBTQ+ people. They offer counseling for the LGBTQ+ community. Get help by calling, texting or chatting with one of their crisis counselors. Connect with others online through their community and read through a plethora of  resources to support you on your journey. Their Crisis Text Line is another safe option! Q Chat Space hosts live chat groups for teens, where they can connect with other people who have shared  interests and gather new information. If you want to know how you can better support a loved one who is LGBTQ+, that’s what PFLAG is for. They provide information and resources not just for LGBTQ+ people but also for anyone who wants to be an ally. There are more than 400 chapters across the US and over 200,000 members. For trans mental health resources specifically, Trans Lifeline can help. It’s run by and for trans people, to provide peer support. For LGBTQ+ friendly therapists, Cerebral is just a few clicks away. Our caring team provides LGBTQ+ therapy online for individuals who might be struggling with their mental health. We take mental illness in the LGBTQ+ community seriously. Cerebral offers different monthly subscriptions to make mental healthcare more affordable and accessible. Should you need medication, we’ll deliver it right to your doorstep. We know that finding therapy for LGBTQ+ issues might feel challenging. Often times people struggle finding care where they know they’ll be accepted, understood and included. Our goal at Cerebral is to remove the stigma surrounding mental health treatment. In order to live the life you want, “healthcare” demands a holistic approach—mentally, physically and emotionally, which you’ll find with Cerebral. If you or a loved one is ready to talk to someone, Cerebral is ready to listen! Start by taking our free emotional assessment so we can get to know you better. This Pride Month—and every month—we send all of our love, support and companionship to the LGBTQ+ community.