LGBTQ+

Research suggests that members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ+) community are at higher risk for mental illness and substance abuse, but are less likely to reach out and receive assistance. In an effort to educate the community about addiction in the LGBTQ+ community, below are facts to help reduce stigmatization and increase awareness of this issue.

• As many as of 30% of gay, non-binary, and transgender people abuse substances, compared to about 9% of the general population.
• Gay, lesbian, and bisexual individuals are roughly 18% more likely to have alcohol addiction,  20% more likely to have drug use disorder, and 9% more likely to misuse prescription medications.
• Approximately 21.8% of LGBTQ+ adults had an alcohol use disorder in the past year, compared to 11% in the overall population.
• Young adults who are lesbian, gay, bisexual or queer have 1.3 times the odds of heavy alcohol use, 1.6 times the odds of marijuana use, 2.9 times the odds of injection drug use, and 3.3 times the odds of cocaine use.
• Men who have sex with men are 3.5 times more likely to use marijuana, 12.2 times more likely to use amphetamines, and 9.5 times more likely to use heroin than men who do not.
• LGBTQ+ individuals often enter treatment with more severe substance use disorders than their heterosexual counterparts.

Addiction can be caused by a multitude of factors, yet the risk of substance abuse is higher within the LGBTQ+ community. Societal discrimination and prejudice produce. social, economic, and health disparities between individuals in the LGBTQ+ community and their heterosexual cisgender counterparts. The challenges that this community faces have contributed to a higher risk of risky behavior and substance use disorders. Below details some of the common factors putting this population at an increased risk of addiction:

Stress from Discrimination and Social Stigma

• The negative effects associated with the adverse social conditions experienced by individuals of a marginalized social group—is something that gay and transgender people will inevitably face. This stress is triggered by general social prejudice against being gay or transgender, as well as discriminatory laws and policies.
• When compared to heterosexual and cisgender individuals, those in the LGBTQ+ community have higher occurrence of stressful childhoods, school victimization, and hate crimes. Each of these stressors has been linked to an increase risk of substance and alcohol addiction

Co-Occurring Conditions/ Mental Disorders

• 1 in 3 LGBTQ+ adults experience mental illness.
• This rate is 1.5-2.5 times higher than their heterosexual or cisgender counterparts. Dealing with these medical issues can interfere with one’s ability or inclination to seek addiction treatment.
• Sexual minorities with substance use disorders are more likely to live with co-occurring psychiatric disorders

Party Culture

• The prevalence and normalization of drug use in party culture increases the addiction risk for LGBTQ+ individuals. In a society where they are not always accepted, bars and nightclubs are considered safe havens for members of the LGBTQ+ community. As a result, the use of alcohol and drugs has become a widely accepted part of the social culture. For many individuals, the fear of distancing themselves from an environment where they feel comfortable makes getting sober increasingly challenging.
• Many LGBTQ+ individuals turn to drugs and alcohol in an attempt to cope with their daily stressors and experience with discrimination. The effects of drugs and alcohol help to dull their pain and relax.

Overcoming an addiction and living an alcohol and drug-free life is a difficult journey requiring time and work. Managing substance abuse disorders is a lifestyle change and lifelong job. To help maintain a lifestyle free of drugs and alcohol, Mountainside offers a wide variety of programs and offerings that address all of your needs, whether it is creating a strong community, educating yourself, or building healthier habits.

Support Groups

One of the key components in addiction recovery is creating a strong sober network for yourself with people who are there to support you through your successes and challenges throughout the process. We offer a range of support groups, both in person and virtual, so you can build connections and get access to a caring group of people who can offer you the support and guidance you need. All of our substance abuse support groups foster a caring and safe environment, and are free and open to the public.

Holistic Treatment

At Mountainside, we understand that the road to recovery is unique to each individual.  We provide a wide variety of programs and offerings to aid in the recovery process for any individual struggling with drug and alcohol addiction. From the start of your journey to the end, Mountainside will be with you every step of the way.