The gay community faces many struggles which can in turn lead to substance use. Some people have a hard time coming out to their friends and family and this may cause a lot of stress for that individual. When people are stressed, they tend to turn to drugs or alcohol to comfort them. Because Americans as a whole have a harder time accepting the LGBT community, people who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender are at a higher risk for substance use disorder.
Bullying and Addiction
Bullying is looked at as a negative but the LGBT population still struggles with being made fun of for who they are which leads to social isolation and can even lead to depression. It can be hard enough to make friends but when you add sexuality to the mix and you are looked at as different, it is even harder to form and keep relationships. When people are faced with sexual discrimination, this can quickly lead to substance use due to the stress of not having friends or being socially accepted. Not only can they feel depressed but LGBT’s can feel anxiety, fear, anger, and mistrust in those around them. If comments are made about the way you walk, talk, or dress, this can really affect ones self-esteem. All of these factors can turn one stressful situation into chronic stress for the person experiencing discrimination.
When people feel isolated or hated for being themselves, they may turn to alcohol and drugs for a certain level of comfort or to forget. Substance use in the LGBT community is extremely high because of what they face on a daily basis. One drink after a long day can easily turn into one bottle a week and drinking alone every single day due to depression or anxiety issues.
It is important to remember that no matter what anybody says, always be yourself. As long as you are not hurting yourself or other people, you have every right to show the world who you are. If you are experiencing depression or isolation and are using substances to ease your pain, seek help right away. There is help out there for those feeling like alcohol and drugs are the only answer. Having a clear and positive mind will guide you towards a positive life.
Substance Abuse Treatment for the Gay Community
Royal Life Centers is a network of full-service drug and alcohol medical detox, residential inpatient, and outpatient treatment centers. We treat dependence on alcohol, benzodiazepines, cocaine, methamphetamine, and opioids through a holistic approach to addiction treatment that targets the mind, body, and spirit. If you or a loved one has a substance use disorder and is ready to begin a life free of addiction, please reach out to us at (877)-RECOVER for help. Our admissions team is available 24/7 to answer any questions you may have about your treatment options.
