Andrew Addie on the importance of queer affirming care
What to listen for
Andrew Addie’s story brings attention to the shame and fear that can surround getting help with your relationship with alcohol.
In this episode, Pia chats with Andrew to unpack his journey to maintained recovery, and learn about his experience of finding queer-affirming care as a patient at Clean Slate Clinic.
You’ll also hear from Dr Chris Davis, Co-Founder & Chief Medical Officer at Clean Slate Clinic, for his perspective of Andrew’s journey as his detox clinician.
Key takeaways
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The importance of queer affirming care: Accessing queer affirming care is crucial for individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community who face additional stigma and barriers to seeking help.
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How to create queer affirming care: Healthcare providers must take accountability for delivering queer affirming care. Andrew discusses the need for providers to create safe spaces, be trauma-informed, and committed to learning and understanding the unique needs of the LGBTQIA+ community - highlighting that negative experiences can deter individuals from accessing necessary healthcare services.
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Taking the first step: Those contemplating a change in their relationship with alcohol are encouraged to focus on taking the first step, rather than worrying about long-term decisions right away.
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Understanding your dependence: Recovering from alcohol dependence can help individuals address underlying mental health conditions, obtain accurate diagnoses, and gain a better understanding of their behaviour and dependence, as Andrew experienced with his Bipolar disorder diagnosis.
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The future of queer affirming care: Dedicated services and accreditation for queer affirming providers could help address the specific needs and challenges that LGBTQIA+ individuals face when accessing healthcare.
Learn more
Head to Andrew's Linkedin to connect.
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A reminder
Clean Slate Clinic is a regulated health service, but the Clean Slate podcast is an educational resource and not a substitute for professional health advice, treatment or assessment. If you are struggling with any of the issues raised in this podcast, please see a healthcare professional or call Lifeline on 13 11 14.