Addiction In The LGBT Community
The LGBT community has rates of substance addiction and abuse that are worryingly higher than other parts of the population. Some probable triggers for addiction in this population are discrimination, pressure from society, and other disorders that might be present. The high rate of addiction amount the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer) community is in part due to the challenges the members face. The possible causes of the dependence are considered by special rehab programs that are designed exclusively for them. This is a critical component of the process of recovery.
While only 9% of the people abuse drugs, about 20 to 30% of the LGBT does.
Problems The LGBT Community Faces
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. Drugs can offer temporary reprieve from uncomfortable feelings such as fear, anger and depression.
Some of what they face are
- Their sexual life exposes them to segregation and bullying
- Emotional abuse, threats, public mockery and embarrassment, and even hate crimes
- Being rejected or shunned by loved ones after coming out
- Losing their job or not advancing at work
- They develop strong lack of affection for themselves
Typical Reoccurring Disorders Among LGBT Community
LGBT community members are frequently forced to live their lives hiding their true nature, which is a situation that might cause internal friction. They often lead a double life in regards to their sexual orientation as they hide their sexuality for fear of judgement. Psychological or emotional disorders and illness can come as a consequence of mental suffering that is a big part of hiding your true nature.
Some emotional or psychological disorders in the LGBT community are
- Intense sadness
- They tend to express unusual worries about everything around them
- Stress levels increases
- Suicide attempts or self-harming
Besides the societal difficulties they undergo, an LGBT person may be witnessing health or physical challenges connected to their sexuality. These may as well add to their dependence and they include
- Compulsive sexual behaviour
- Sexual dysfunction
- Sex or HIV-associated anxiety
- Sexual assault or abuse
Experiencing both mental and sexual problems that triggers drug abuse or complicates an addiction is common to LGBTs. To successfully overcome an addiction, the first step is to identify whether the addict has some co-occurring health problems when planning a program that will help an LGBT overcome his addiction.
Drugs Chosen By The LGBT Community
Of the many substances that can be abused, five are used most frequently in the LGBT community.
- Forms of tobacco
- Gay and Transgender people consume tobacco up to 200 percent greater than individuals who identify as straight.
- Alcohol
- A moderate to severe alcohol problems are present in 20-25 percent of the LGBT community.
- Marijuana
- Gay men are 3.5 times more probable to exploit Cannabis than heterosexual males.
- Amphetamines
- The likelihood that they will use Amphetamines multiplies 12.2 times.
- Heroin
- Heroin use increases by 9.5 times n LGBT members than in heterosexuals.
LGBT Community Treatment Facilities
Since their case is unique and they don't have the right tools to help them out, most of them prefer not to seek any assistance.
Luckily, there are several programs that provide support to the LGBT community by focusing on the isolation the may experience, the long term effects of living as a "closeted" person, or being discriminated against.
Rehab facilities that specialize with LGBT treatment can identify co-occurring mental disorders and this contributes to a full and permanent recovery. There is a far greater chance for relapse if these underlying issues are not addressed.
Acquire The Help You Need
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.
You will be in the company of people that can offer you support and motivation and you will feel that you belong if you go to a treatment facility that offers rehab and care to LGBT individuals in their fight against addiction.
Whether you or an individual you truly adore is fighting with dependence, contact us on 0800 246 1509.