Dependency Within The LGBT Community
The rate of addiction and drug abuse within the LGBT society is significantly higher when compared to other groups. There are many reasons for these statistics for substance abuse in this group, like discrimination and peer pressure for example. Members of LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer) community come across several difficulties that have lead to a great rate of dependence. LGBT specific healing bases are very sensitive to the requirements of that community and quickly tackle any basic issues that may have lead to dependence. Breaking an addiction becomes easy with this.
While 9 percent of the general population suffers from substance abuse, it's estimated that it affects between 20-30 percent of the LGBT community.
Challenges People In The LGBT Community Face
When compared to the general population it is obvious that LGBT community is susceptible to drug abuse at much higher levels.
This is partly due to several obstacles imposed by society that they face nearly on a day to day basis that are typically not faced by heterosexual individuals.
Often, LGBT people will avert to substances or alcohol as a method of self-medicating from the bias they witness in the everyday society. Depression, anger, anxiety, and fear can all be numbed temporarily with these substances.
Some of those challenges are
- Stigmatization and discrimination due to their sexual orientation
- Hate crimes; emotional ill-use, warnings, public humiliation or ridicule
- Shame and rejection from friends and family after coming out
- There is the problem of inequality at work, loss of employment and not receive pay rises
- They develop strong lack of affection for themselves
Ready to Get Help?
CALL US NOW ON
Disorders That Are Commonly Reoccurring Among The LGBT Community
Having to live a closet life is one aspect that often causes internal conflict for LGBT community members. That leads them to have double identities when it comes to their sexual orientation and to even hide their real sexuality from people because they are afraid of being rejected. Different health problems may arise from hiding one's sexual inclination.
Some emotional or psychological disorders in the LGBT community are
- Dejection
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Elevated stress
- Suicide attempts or self-harming
The sexual lifestyle they choose is another problem that may affect them both bodily and otherwise, apart from the problems they face from their neighbours. Their dependence on drugs may stem from these
- Compulsive sexual activity
- Sexual dysfunction
- Sex or HIV-associated anxiety
- Sexual abuse or attack
Co-occurring psychological or sexual disorders are common among a lot of LGBT community members, which are either the cause of substance abuse or its continuation. When thinking about treatment options for people who identify as LGBT, there needs to be a focus on any co-occurring disorders so as to increase the chances of long term sobriety.
Substances Of Choice Among The LGBT Community
Of the many substances that can be abused, five are used most frequently in the LGBT community.
- Tobacco
- Transgender and gay people use different forms of tobacco, 200% more than heterosexual individuals.
- Alcohol
- A moderate to severe alcohol problems are present in 20-25 percent of the LGBT community.
- Marijuana
- Heterosexual males are 3.5 times less likely to use Marijuana than members of LGBT community.
- Amphetamines
- Those who identify as LGBT are 12.2 times more likely to use Amphetamines.
- Heroin
- LGBT people are 9.5 times with high chances to utilize heroin than straight people.
Treatment Places For LGBT People
Not enough resources that can deal with LGBT community members' specific requirements is one of the reasons these individuals might hesitate to ask for help.
The challenges that LGBT members face and the negative consequences of rejection are the main problems that some recovery centres are out to address.
Recognizing any co-occurring mental health problems is in the focus of treatment facilities for LGBT individuals, which can raise the chances of recovery for a longer time. Chances that a relapse might happen are much bigger if these underlying causes of substance abuse or addiction are not properly dealt with.
Obtain The Support You Require
There is a disturbing rate of addiction in the LGBT community along with a number of issues and hurdles that they are confronted with on a day to day basis that could lead to substance abuse and addiction.
By entering an LGBT specific facility, you will be in the majority instead of the minority, surrounded by people who can provide understanding and support.
Get in touch with us on if your or your family and friends have problems with abuse of drug.