Why Are LGBTQIA+ Populations Vulnerable to Addiction?

There are a variety of risk factors that can make individuals more vulnerable to using alcohol and other drugs and developing an addiction. Certain populations tend to be exposed to these risk factors at greater rates than others. For example, the LGBTQIA+ population is more vulnerable to addiction for various reasons. Since addiction is a chronic condition, professional treatment is often required to establish lasting sobriety. 

Becoming familiar with why LGBTQIA+ individuals are more likely to use substances is crucial for preventing it and encouraging treatment for loved ones that may require it. 

Substance Use and Abuse Among the LGBTQIA+ Population

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 

Studies have shown that, when compared with the general population, gay and bisexual men, lesbian, and transgender individuals are more likely to:

Use alcohol and drugs,Have higher rates of substance abuse,Not withhold from alcohol and drug use, andContinue heavy drinking into later life.

No one is safe from addiction. However, LGBTQIA+ individuals are more likely to use alcohol and other drugs because they are often exposed to risk factors more severely than others. Understanding why this population is uniquely vulnerable to addiction can help loved ones better support LGBTQIA+ family members and friends who may be struggling.

Identifying Risk Factors for LGBTQIA+ Individuals

There are genetic, environmental, and developmental risk factors that can increase one's risk for risk-taking behaviors, including substance use and abuse. The CDC highlights several notable risk factors, including:

Family history of substance useFavorable parental attitudes towards the behaviorPoor parental monitoringParental substance useFamily rejection of sexual orientation or gender identityAssociation with delinquent or substance using peersLack of school connectednessLow academic achievementChildhood sexual abuseMental health issues

Although anyone can be exposed to these risk factors, LGBTQIA+ individuals are even more likely to be exposed due to rejection and other forms of discrimination. 

Self-Medicating Practices

First and foremost, sexual minorities may turn to alcohol and other drugs at greater rates in an attempt to self-medicate. LGBTQIA+ individuals may self-medicate personal feelings and emotions when confronted with homophobic comments or situations, especially when confronted by family members. 

Unfortunately, this population is exposed to greater trauma incidents, including violence and assault. Therefore, LGBTQIA+ individuals may turn to substance use as it can be a subconscious reaction to working through other forms of discrimination or violence that they may experience as a result of their sexual orientation. However, it is important to understand that using substances for this purpose would still be a form of self-medication, whether or not an individual does so consciously. 

Compared to the LGBTQIA+ population, individuals who are not LGBTQIA+ may be more likely to use alcohol and other drugs to ease curiosity or social pressures. While LGBTQIA+ individuals may use substances for these reasons, they are much more likely to use them to numb, dull, or manage painful emotions. This may also be because this population experiences reduced social support in addition to increased discrimination. Hiding one's sexual orientation by remaining "in the closet" to avoid judgment can feel isolating and overwhelming, worsening one's overall mental health. 

Treatment and Recovery for LGBTQIA+ Individuals

When it comes to treatment and recovery for addiction and other substance use disorders (SUDs) among the LGBTQIA+ community, individualized treatment is essential. As LGBTQIA+ populations are exposed to unique risk factors, treatment must work to help them work through underlying traumas and other factors contributing to their substance use or abuse. 

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) explains, "LGBTQ individuals often enter treatment with more severe SUDs." Additionally, "Sexual minorities with SUDs are more likely to have additional (comorbid or co-occurring) psychiatric disorders." Individualized treatment ensures that each individual's needs are met throughout treatment and long-term recovery. This is especially true for those working to recover from co-occurring disorders, such as depression and SUD.

Why Social Support Is Vital for Lasting Recovery

A publication by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) explains, "These [LGBTQIA+] youth frequently encounter numerous challenges and may feel isolated, alienated, depressed, and fearful as they attempt to navigate their emerging awareness of their sexual or gender identity. The same can be said for these individuals as they work to navigate treatment and recovery. Likewise, social support plays a central role for LGBTQIA+ individuals in establishing and achieving long-term sobriety. 

Engaging with support groups and other group therapies throughout treatment–in addition to individual psychotherapy sessions–can help LGBTQIA+ individuals feel supported and empowered by others who may be experiencing similar life circumstances. As many of these individuals experience rejection from family and other support systems, it is essential that they have peers that can walk alongside them throughout their healing journey. 

Our team at Next Level Recovery Associates understands the many reasons why LGBTQIA+ individuals are more vulnerable to substance use, abuse, and addiction. Our purpose is to provide individuals with the support and knowledge that they need to sustain lasting recovery from substance use disorders, co-occurring disorders, and other types of addictions. We have recovery coaches and sober companions who want to walk with you and motivate you to continue healing. We offer a wide range of treatment services that can be individualized to fit your unique needs and goals for treatment. These include individual and family coaching, interventions, consulting educational groups, and more. For more information, give us a call today at (561) 735-2590.