Why the LGBTQ community is more vulnerable to addiction

The LGBTQ community is constantly evolving as they make their way into the world. While most people focus on accepting their new identity, many do not. A significant community population struggles with accepting themselves as they are and is often forced to adhere to traditional views.

The emotional pain, mental anguish and isolation it causes often causes a healthy individual to turn to drug and alcohol addiction. Certainly Sober living in Los Angeles centers focus on helping individuals from the community reclaim their lives, identify and find purpose in life. However, it is crucial to understand that the LGBTQ community is often subjected to society’s harsh judgment, rejection from family and peers, and bullying.

Here are more reasons that contribute to these cases:

Early emotional trauma

Individuals begin to realize that they are ‘different’ from early childhood. This feeling is often uncomfortable for many to process, as most people do not understand why they feel ‘alien’ in their bodies and why they cannot see and express themselves like everyone else.

Parents often realize the discomfort and behavioral changes their children are going through, but don’t know how to navigate such sensitive conversations, what they can lead to tensions within the family. As a result, the individual feels unheard, unwanted, and misunderstood throughout their adult years.

Stressful life situations

Most incarcerated individuals live in extremely stressful situations, fearing that their real identity may emerge at any time and they will be rejected by society. The fear persists regardless of the individual’s age and location. Most people have to work extensively to hide their true selves to avoid losing their cover.

It could be by dressing according to gender norms, not participating in relationship discussions, or feeling uncomfortable with physical touch (hugs, for example). Masking one’s true identity and suppressing emotions ultimately causes a person to experience stress, leaving him or her vulnerable to using alcohol and other substances to manage their well-being.

Party lifestyle

Socializing becomes an important part of an individual’s LGBTQ life as a way to network and socialize with like-minded people. Unfortunately, most of these parties are also targeted by people with malicious intent who try to woo an individual by offering support, pretending to understand their concerns, and providing a shoulder to cry on.

Over time, vulnerable individuals are exposed to substances and alcohol as a means to adapt and find their voice. In fact, substances such as MDMA, GHB, ketamine and methamphetamine are widely present in these parties, easily enticing new members to consume.

Internalized homophobia

Homophobia is unfortunately a common problem that many members of the LGBTQ community face. Hatred and rejection can come from family members, friends, and even relatives. When an individual is constantly exposed to such negative and stressful experiences, he eventually internalizes hatred towards himself.

It may involve indulging in self-harm, not eating healthy meals on time, or relying on substances or alcohol to punish oneself. Internalized homophobia hinders an individual’s ability to view themselves with love and kindness. Religious beliefs, family and upbringing, influences, media representation and stereotypes are common reasons behind such internalized disdain for oneself.

Lack of support

Many people choose to remain in the closet for fear of discrimination, abuse, or rejection by their family, friends, and society in general. The lack of support and contempt drives one to hide their reality while participating in a community full of members undergoing similar experiences.

Substance and alcohol use ultimately becomes both a part of the coping mechanism and an element of bonding. Situations are complicated when there is abuse and emotional neglect.

In short

Addiction in the LGBTQ community is unfortunately a serious problem for many households. The stigma surrounding both topics often leaves people unsure of where to turn when they feel lost or need support and love. However, it is crucial to recognize that help is available, and there is no shame in seeking help when you need it.