Nar-Anon is a support program based on the 12-steps, that helps people who have an addicted friend or family member. It is not a religious program, but it does focus on a Higher Power and a spiritual way of life. Nar-Anon is similar to Narcotics Anonymous; they have 12 steps, 12 traditions, and 12 concepts of services. The 12-steps of Nar-Anon are similar to the 12-steps of NA except the steps do have slight changes in the phrasing. For instance, step 1 states “We admitted we were powerless over the addict – that our lives had become unmanageable.” Nar-Anon is a good place that offers support to anyone that is struggling with a friend or family member with an addiction issue. Members can be assured that they are not alone in this fight with their loved ones. They can offer advice and support to each other and attempt to offer solutions to the problems that loved ones of addicts face.
Treatment of LGBT Addicts by Recovery Community
Statistics show that addiction and substance abuse is higher among people in the LGBT community. In the past, people that do identify as LGBT have been discriminated against both personally and in the public light. For this very reason, a lot of people in this community fear judgment and therefore do not feel comfortable disclosing personal information. Thankfully there has been a huge shift in the perception and attitudes towards people that identify as LGBT, so treatment for substance abuse in this community has gotten a lot better. Also, more facilities are now offering programs specifically designed to help those in the LGBT community. Addicts and alcoholics that identify as being LGBT are stigmatized much less than in years past, and many people welcome them into twelve-step meetings with open arms. Families of LGBT addicts have unique challenges to deal with and Nar-Anon and Al-Anon put resources in place to assist these communities. According to the National Institute of Health:
Substance abuse is a major public health problem in the United States (US). A recent study released by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) indicates that the prevalence of illicit drug use among Americans increased between 2008 and 2010. Almost 9% of the population, representing over 22 million individuals 12 years of age or older are current illicit drug users. Yet, the substance abuse treatment needs of Americans have generally gone unmet, with only 11.2% of those needing substance abuse treatment receiving treatment. The unmet treatment needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered (LGBT) substance users are thought to be disproportionately high, although it is difficult to determine given that many large scale surveys and treatment studies do not inquire about sexual orientation and many LGBT individuals may not be comfortable reporting their sexual orientation status at treatment entry. (NIH)
Nar-Anon Supports LGBT Families
The only requirement for membership to Nar-Anon is that there be a problem of substance abuse or addiction in a friend or family member. Nar-Anon provides support to anyone that is struggling and needs support for their loved ones. Nar-Anon offers help by sharing experience, strength, and hope. You are not alone. The best way to find Nar-Anon groups in your area is by doing an online search. With the pandemic the world is currently facing, there are virtual meetings available to those who don’t feel comfortable in a crowded setting. For more information about Nar-Anon meetings in your area, you can visit www.nar-anon.org.
Treatment for Addiction Regardless of Gender Identification
If you or someone you love is struggling with an addiction, our addiction specialists are available around the clock to assist you. Evoke Wellness at Cohasset offers evidence-based addiction treatment. Our solution-focused addiction treatment will lead you on a road to long-lasting recovery. You don’t have to suffer any longer, call us today.
