GLBT Cocaine Addiction
Within the GLBT community, cocaine use remains at an all-time high. Not surprisingly, GLBT cocaine addiction is one of the key concerns of counselors and health professionals working in the gay and lesbian community. Once considered a staple of American night life (both straight and gay) cocaine has finally been universally recognized for its true nature: a dangerously addictive drug with multiple potential health hazards.
The aim of GLBT cocaine addiction treatment is to help the individual understand the reasons why they take the drug – and develop decision-making skills to help keep them off the drug in the future. Because of the stigma placed on many members of the GLBT community, receiving proper addiction treatment from people who really understand the needs of these men and women is absolutely essential.
What are the Symptoms of Cocaine Addiction?
Individuals in and out of the GLBT community exhibit several key signs and symptoms when they use cocaine habitually, including:
- Increase in energy
- Running nose and constant sniffing
- Paranoid behavior
- Blood shot eyes
- Rapid talking
- Hallucinations
What are the Long Term Health Consequences of Cocaine Addiction?
Few drugs carry as many harmful side effects after prolonged use as cocaine. Some of the most dangerous of these potential health hazards include:
- High blood pressure
- Permanent damage to the nasal cavities
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Convulsions
Cocaine Addiction and the GLBT Community
The demographic with the highest incidence of cocaine addiction within the GLBT community is gay men. Cocaine use continues to be a problem in the gay community because of the increased energy and heightened self-confidence individuals experience when using the stimulant. Cocaine is a sought-after party drug because individuals can stay up later and experience a more pronounced state of consciousness.
The Fallout of Cocaine Addiction in the Gay Community
In addition to the health hazards listed above, many men see their financial good standing collapse as a result of cocaine addiction. The drug is expensive, and in a brief period of time, people can lose everything – their house, their car or the savings – in their pursuit of the drug.
Also, law enforcement officials confirm that many gay men may turn to prostitution in an effort to finance their cocaine habit. Although this occurs in only a small percentage of the GLBT community, the behavior is dangerous enough to merit mention in this article. With HIV/AIDS still casting a long shadow over the community, unprotected sex with multiple partners still carries a heavy potential price.
Success Stories
Many individuals who enter GLBT-friendly addiction treatment are able to break the cycle of addiction, and gain a better understanding of their own sexuality. This is the dual-benefit of working with counselors at a gay/lesbian drug rehab facility.
Michael's House is a drug rehab facility that understands the special needs of GLBT patients. From a beautiful residential facility in Palm Springs, California, Michael's House offers care and understanding to their GLBT patients. Contact Michael's House today at for more information.
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