There are several factors that can increase your risk of addiction. Genetics is a big one. If you have a close relative who has struggled with addiction, you are more likely to struggle with addiction too. Mental illness is another major risk factor. Depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other mental health issues are major contributors to addiction. Another major risk factor is if you identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgendered, or LGBT. If so, you are about twice as likely to suffer from a substance use disorder or mental illness as the general population. Why are LGBT people at such higher risk?
Stress
It’s very difficult to identify as LGBT. Although we’ve come a long way in accepting different lifestyles, and protecting the rights of LGBT people, there is still a very long way to go. Although laws have changed, personal prejudices remain. Many LGBT people grow up feeling broken, wrong, sinful, or perverted. Those who come out risk discrimination, ostracism, and even physical attack, while those who keep their sexual orientation a secret fear exposure and bear the burden of living falsely. Studies have found that the burden of keeping a secret can actually impair mental functions like concentration and memory. LGBT people are also frequently victims of physical and sexual assault. In short, LGBT people live with a lot more stress just because of who they are. This often leads to feelings of shame, anxiety, and depression, which are major risk factors for addiction.
Lack of treatment options
Studies have shown that specialized treatment for gay and bisexual men leads to much better outcomes than non-specialized programs. Unfortunately, very few treatment centers offer specialized treatment for LGBT people. According to one study, only about seven percent of programs offered these specialized services. Even worse, some treatment facilities claim to offer specialized LGBT treatment but don’t. Specialized programs should address specific problems typically encountered by LGBT patients, such as homophobia, family problems, abuse, and social isolation.
Party culture
Because substance use is more widespread in the LGBT community in general, it can be challenging for people in recovery to stay sober without becoming socially isolated. Gay men are 3 times more likely than straight men to use marijuana, 12 times more likely to use amphetamines, and nine times more likely to use heroin. While about 10 percent of the general population has an alcohol use issue, the figure is closer to 25 percent among the LGBT community. LGBT people are typically more dependent on their community because of outside prejudice. Staying sober is that much harder when the people you depend on are very likely to drink and use drugs.
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction or mental illness, we can help. Recovery Ways is a premier drug and alcohol addiction treatment facility located in Salt Lake City, Utah. We have the resources to effectively treat a dual diagnosis. Our mission is to provide the most cost-effective, accessible substance abuse treatment to as many people as possible. Request information online or call us today at 1-888-986-7848.
