While society has made great progress with regards to the advocacies of the LGBTQ community, it can’t be denied that substance abuse and addiction are also big problems for them. Drug addiction poses great risks and dangers for people in the LGBTQ community.
Let’s take a closer look.
Psychological Factors
People in the LGBTQ community experienced different kinds of trauma and abuse throughout their lives. This is due to the stigma attached to being LGBTQ. As a result, many from the community resort to substance use in order to cope with shame, guilt, bullying, violence, harassment, family problems, peer pressure, depression, anxiety, and inner conflict.
Culture
The LGBTQ community has a unique culture. Many in the community tend to party a lot and many friendships and relationships are formed through this so-called party culture. These parties provide opportunities for like-minded people to meet and get to know each other.
What many don’t know, however, is there’s still an underground subgroup of drug users who seek solace from each other through alcohol and mind-altering substances.
At Bridges of Hope, we acknowledge the need for people in the LGBTQ community to be heard. This is especially true for those who are struggling with drug and alcohol addiction. This is because they have to battle not just the stigma of addiction but also that of being LGBTQ.
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