LGBTQ+ Addiction Treatment

LGBTQ+ Mental Health and Its Connection to Addiction 

The complex relationship between mental health and addiction in a person who identifies as LGBTQ+ results from a variety of interrelated elements that influence how members of this community experience life. Increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression can result from social stigmatization, discrimination, and a lack of acceptance. As a result, some people use drugs or alcohol to help them deal with their emotional issues. This interplay is a complex phenomenon that is influenced by both inner identity struggles and societal forces from the outside. It is crucial to understand these dynamics to customize support and interventions to meet the specific needs of those in the LGBTQ+ community. 

Addiction can affect anyone, but the LGBTQ+ community, in particular, seems to struggle with substance abuse at a higher rate than the general population. One study found that sexual minorities have a higher frequency of both using illicit drugs and having a substance abuse disorder in the past year than their heterosexual counterparts. They are also more likely to drink and smoke cigarettes on a regular basis. Along with higher instances of substance abuse, there are also mental health problems in the LGBTQ+ community, as the two are often related.  

Contributing elements can include: 

• Stigma and discrimination: Suffering discrimination can leave one feeling lonely and emotionally burdened for a long time. Some people may use substances for solace due to this load. 

• Internalized homophobia and transphobia: The internalization of societal prejudices can result in extreme humiliation and self-doubt. As people try to deal with these harmful emotions, this internal struggle makes them more susceptible to addiction. 

• Isolation and loneliness: Deep feelings of isolation might result from being rejected by family or community. Lack of a social network can make mental health issues worse, making drugs and alcohol an alluring haven. 

• Access to LGBTQ inclusion in healthcare: A lack of LGBTQ+ inclusive healthcare professionals can make it difficult to receive effective mental health therapy. Individuals may turn to alcohol or drug self-medication due to this care gap. 

• Heteronormative: The pressure to conform to traditional gender and sexual norms and expectations can lead to feelings of alienation and internal conflict, which can exacerbate mental health problems and drug usage. 

• Lack of family support: A person is more likely to turn to drugs or alcohol for comfort if their family does not embrace them or understand them, which can strain relationships and worsen feelings of loneliness. 

With all of these factors in mind, it is crucial that members of this community have access to capable and compassionate LGBTQ+ rehab services. Otherwise, they run the risk of falling deeper into the pit of addiction. 

Addictions in the Transgender Community 

Minority stress is one of the most challenging contributing factors to substance abuse among the LGBTQ+ community. Minority stress occurs in communities that are often marginalized, and transgender men, women, and nonbinary individuals are often the most marginalized out of LGBTQ+ communities. Transgender individuals struggle with substance abuse and alcoholism in varying degrees and substance types, and a unique approach is needed to help them heal. 

Common Addictions for Gay and Bisexual Men 

Though the acronym LGBTQ+ is always changing to include more members of these communities, there are many subsets of the LGBTQ+ community that face their own challenges. Homosexual men who are gay or bisexual may face their own difficulties with substance abuse. There are some common drugs abused by gay men that are prevalent in their communities. Studies show that gay and bisexual men are at an increased risk of abusing illicit drugs. 

The more common drugs abused by gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer men include: 

• Meth 
• Amyl nitrates, aka poppers 
• Ecstasy 
• Cocaine 
• Stimulants 

The CDC also notes that LGBTQ+ men are also susceptible to struggling with alcohol abuse, often drinking in attempts to cope with societal judgments or difficulties towards their sexual orientation. Therapy programs for LGBTQ+ who use drugs can help gay, queer, and homosexual men treat their drug addiction in a supportive environment. 

Common Addictions for Gay, Bisexual, and Lesbian Women 

Women in the LGBTQ+ community also face challenges when it comes to substance abuse. Gay bisexual women are at a greater risk for alcohol abuse, but they are also susceptible to additional struggles. Specifically, lesbians, bisexual, and gay women are reported to drink more frequently, in larger amounts, and for longer durations. Following medical alcohol detox, patients at Banyan Detox can enter specific LGBTQ substance abuse treatment tracks to address the personal and social factors that contributed to their active drug or alcohol addiction.