Abstract
The LGBTQ+ community faces higher rates of substance abuse compared to their heterosexual counterparts, a phenomenon well-documented in numerous research studies. This paper explores the factors contributing to this disparity, including discrimination, social stigma, violence, lack of support, and peer pressure within the LGBTQ+ community. By synthesizing existing literature, this review aims to deepen understanding of the challenges faced by sexual minorities, shedding light on the societal factors that contribute to substance abuse among LGBTQ+ individuals. Therefore, this research seeks to inform policies and interventions that can support healthy coexistence between LGBTQ+ individuals and the heterosexual majority.
Introduction
Substance abuse is a critical issue within the LGBTQ+ community, affecting a significant portion of its members. The term LGBTQ+ encompasses individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or questioning. Research consistently shows that sexual minorities are disproportionately affected by substance abuse compared to their heterosexual counterparts. According to statistics, LGBTQ+ individuals are more than twice as likely to use illegal substances and nearly twice as likely to develop substance abuse issues as heterosexuals.
This paper explores the underlying factors contributing to the elevated rates of substance abuse among LGBTQ+ individuals. Key among these factors are discrimination and social stigma. LGBTQ+ individuals often face prejudice and discrimination throughout their lives, which can lead to increased stress and mental health challenges. Coping with these stressors often involves turning to substances such as alcohol and drugs.
Moreover, the LGBTQ+ community is at a greater risk of violence and harassment, both of which contribute significantly to substance abuse. The prevalence of verbal and physical violence against LGBTQ+ individuals remains disturbingly high, resulting in elevated levels of psychological distress and subsequent substance use as a coping mechanism.
Additionally, the lack of support from families, friends, and even healthcare providers further exacerbates the problem. LGBTQ+ individuals who do not receive acceptance and support from their immediate social circles are more likely to engage in substance abuse as a means of dealing with feelings of rejection and isolation.
Furthermore, peer pressure and the cultural norms within LGBTQ+ communities also play a role in the increased substance abuse rates. The community’s social activities often revolve around venues where substance use is prevalent, fostering an environment where substance abuse may be normalized.
In light of these challenges, understanding the contributing factors to substance abuse among LGBTQ+ individuals is crucial. By doing so, there can be better support for this marginalized group and work towards creating a society where all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, can thrive without resorting to harmful coping mechanisms. This paper reviews existing literature to offer insights into the issues surrounding substance abuse within the LGBTQ+ community, providing a foundation for future research and policy initiatives aimed at reducing substance abuse and promoting the well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals.
Literature Review
Substance abuse within the LGBTQ+ community is a significant public health concern, with numerous studies highlighting higher rates of substance use and addiction among sexual minorities compared to heterosexual individuals. This section reviews existing literature to explore the impact of the factors contributing to substance abuse within the LGBTQ+ community.
Discrimination and Social Stigma
Discrimination and social stigma are pervasive stressors experienced by LGBTQ+ individuals throughout their lives. These stressors are closely linked to increased rates of substance abuse within this community. Anderson (2018) defines social stigma as the process of labeling, stereotyping, and discrimination based on differences, which serves as a means of social control. LGBTQ+ individuals frequently encounter stigma in various forms, including employment discrimination, verbal harassment, and physical violence (Rosner et al., 2021; Ackermann, 2019; Anderson, 2018).
Research has consistently shown that these stressors contribute to higher levels of psychological distress among LGBTQ+ individuals compared to their heterosexual peers (White Hughto et al., 2015, as cited in Anderson, 2018). This distress, in turn, increases the likelihood of engaging in substance use as a coping mechanism (National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2020).
According to Demant et al. (2018), LGBTQ+ individuals are more sensitive to the negative impacts of discrimination and social stigma, which are significant risk factors for substance abuse. The stressors associated with stigma and discrimination can lead LGBTQ+ individuals to use substances to alleviate distress and manage their emotions (Demant et al., 2018).
Violence and Harassment
Violence and harassment directed at LGBTQ+ individuals are significant contributors to substance abuse within this community. Studies have consistently shown that LGBTQ+ individuals are at a higher risk of experiencing verbal and physical violence in various settings, including at home, in the workplace, and in public spaces (Medley et al., 2016; Ackermann, 2019).
Rosner et al. (2021) highlight that violence and harassment exacerbate the mental distress experienced by LGBTQ+ individuals, contributing to higher rates of substance abuse. The fear of violence and harassment may lead individuals to use substances as a way to cope with the stress and anxiety caused by these experiences (Karakaya & Kutlu, 2021).
According to Demant et al. (2018), the disproportionate rates of violence and harassment experienced by LGBTQ+ individuals significantly increase their vulnerability to substance abuse. The literature underscores the urgent need for interventions aimed at reducing violence and creating safer environments for LGBTQ+ individuals to mitigate the risk of substance abuse.
Lack of Support
Lack of support from family, friends, and healthcare providers is another critical factor contributing to substance abuse among LGBTQ+ individuals. Research indicates that many LGBTQ+ individuals face rejection and lack of acceptance from their immediate social circles, which can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness (Ackermann, 2019).
The absence of support networks often compels LGBTQ+ individuals to seek solace in substances, as documented by Karakaya and Kutlu (2021). The fear of encountering negative attitudes and discrimination within healthcare settings further deters LGBTQ+ individuals from seeking help for substance abuse and other health issues (Karakaya & Kutlu, 2021).
Anderson (2018) argues that culturally insensitive care exacerbates the sense of isolation experienced by LGBTQ+ individuals, contributing to their reluctance to access healthcare services. The literature highlights the importance of creating inclusive and supportive environments to reduce substance abuse and promote the well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals.
Peer Pressure and LGBTQ+ Culture
Peer pressure and the cultural norms within LGBTQ+ communities also play a significant role in the higher rates of substance abuse observed in this population. Research indicates that LGBTQ+ social venues, such as bars, clubs, and parties, often revolve around the use of substances (Demant et al., 2018).
Demant et al. (2018) found that substance use is normalized within LGBTQ+ culture, with peer pressure playing a crucial role in perpetuating this behavior. The need to fit in and be accepted within the community may lead individuals to engage in substance use, despite the associated risks.
Furthermore, the socialization patterns within LGBTQ+ communities often involve activities where substance use is prevalent. This “bar culture” and the associated social norms contribute to higher rates of substance abuse among LGBTQ+ individuals compared to their heterosexual counterparts (Demant et al., 2018).
Conclusion
Substance abuse among LGBTQ+ individuals is a critical issue influenced by various social, cultural, and environmental factors. Discrimination, social stigma, violence, lack of support, and peer pressure within LGBTQ+ communities contribute significantly to elevated rates of substance abuse.
The literature reviewed in this section demonstrates that LGBTQ+ individuals are more likely to use substances as a coping mechanism for the stressors associated with their sexual orientation or gender identity. Addressing these underlying factors is crucial for developing effective interventions aimed at reducing substance abuse and promoting the well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals.
Future research should continue to explore the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and identify strategies to create supportive environments that mitigate the risk of substance abuse. Policy initiatives should prioritize the reduction of discrimination and stigma, the promotion of supportive social networks, and the creation of culturally competent healthcare services to address the substance abuse disparities within the LGBTQ+ community.
References
Ackermann, K. (2019, September 10). Why substance abuse is higher within the LGBTQ Community. American Addiction Centers.
Anderson, S. (2018, March 26). Mental health disparities in the LGBT community: The role of stigma. Handle Proxy.
Demant, D., Hides, L., White, K. M., & Kavanagh, D. J. (2018, September 27). LGBT communities and substance use in QUEENSLAND, Australia: Perceptions of young people and community stakeholders. PLOS ONE.
Karakaya, S., & Kutlu, F. Y. (2021). LGBT individuals’ opinions about their health care experiences: A qualitative research study. Journal of nursing management, 29(1), 24-31.
Medley, G., Lipari, R.N., Bose, J., Cribb, D.S., Kroutil, L.A., &McHenry, G.. (2016). Sexual Orientation and Estimates of Adult Substance Use and Mental Health: Results from the 2015 National Survey on Drug Use and Health.
National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2020, August 25). Substance use and suds in lgbtq* populations. National Institute on Drug Abuse.
Rosner, B., Neicun, J., Yang, J. C., & Roman-Urrestarazu, A. (2021). Substance use among sexual minorities in the US–Linked to inequalities and unmet need for mental health treatment? Results from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH). Journal of Psychiatric Research, 135, 107-118.
Scannapieco, M., Painter, K. R., & Blau, G. (2018). A comparison of lgbtq youth and heterosexual youth in the child welfare system: Mental health and substance abuse occurrence and outcomes. Children and Youth Services Review, 91.
