I have been thinking recently in relation to local projects within the LGBT community that would be assisted by the uptake of Open Dialogue or indeed by training in Open Dialogue ideas and theories. The individuals that access these services are often misusing substances to self medicate and are concerned about issues pertaining to sexuality and gender.
The misuse of substances is more of a problem in the LGBTQ community particularly as the lifestyle for the young can revolve around clubs, alcohol and recreational drug use which helps to facilitate confidence but which can rapidly pose a problem. The misuse of drugs is increasing with younger people in the UK whilst alcohol use is decreasing. Unfortunately substance misuse can be lethal and certain drugs such as ketamine and cannabis increase mood disorders and may lead to the development of more serious mental health conditions.
Young people who identify as LGBTQ often feel alienated and different at some point in their lives and “ coming out” can be difficult within certain cultures, religious groups, family structures and thinking. Fore instance at the university we have young people who originate from countries where it is illegal to have same sex relationships. A young man from Kenya was frightened to discuss his attractions to other men because there were people from his own country at the university and rumours of him being gay would result in social ostracism and him being unable to work in his own country.
Open Dialogue ideas are being encouraged to be promoted at the university. Even if we cannot work with the families in the room, we can work with the idea of the family network……., who would be included and what their roles and contributions would be.
About Author: I am Jane Hetherington Principal Psychotherapist and Operational Lead with Early Intervention Services in Kent. I trained as an integrative psychotherapist and have worked in substance misuse, primary care and psychosis services. I have completed the Open Dialogue training and will be involved in the new Open Dialogue Service, in addition I am on the APOD UK Board and completing the International Train the Trainer Open Dialogue course in Helsinki.
