The information presented in this blog is take from Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMSHA). I recently read one of their free PDFs An introduction to substance abuse treatment for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender individuals.
I found that this publication presented helpful and insightful information. I believe that I am very supportive of LGBT individuals, but reading this publication allowed me to have further insight into their unique experiences, and how to counsel someone with a substance issue who identifies as LGBT. Being an LGBT individual does not automatically mean that you will experience a substance abuse issue: This publication looks at the unique difficulties faced by someone is identities as LGBT.
This publication explores that sociocultural aspect of the that are unique to each group of individuals. For example, the publication has two separate chapters for Transgender and Lesbian individuals. I think that too often LGBT are group together as if they are a homogenous group. I postulate that the experience of a Transgender Man, and a Lesbian women are two separate experiences.
Additionally, this publication is helpful in addressing ethical and legal issues. Self-disclosure of substance abuse treatment, gender identity, or sexual idenitity can be detrimental. This publication explores different hypothetically scenarios, and explains the best course of action to take in each case.
I highly recommend this publication to my fellow and prospective colleagues.
