Resources for the LGBTQ+ Community

Individuals in the LGBTQ+ community face unique risk factors that can increase the likelihood of struggling with mental health issues and substance use. These factors include early childhood trauma, harassment and bullying, heightened stress, feelings of isolation, and a culture that sometimes normalizes a party lifestyle. Research shows that mental health disorders and substance use are more prevalent among LGBTQ+ individuals, which can lead to devastating outcomes like overdose or suicide. Co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders are also common.

Unfortunately, LGBTQ+ individuals often encounter barriers to accessing the care they need. This is why it’s essential to promote resources tailored to the LGBTQ+ community. Even when professional treatment isn’t accessible, resources provide vital support and assistance. Let’s explore the importance of these resources and highlight some of the available options for LGBTQ+ individuals.

The LGBTQ+ Community and Substance Abuse

Substance use is significantly higher among LGBTQ+ individuals compared to the general population. While the average rate of substance use is around 9 percent, between 20-30 percent of the LGBTQ+ community struggles with substance use disorders. LGBTQ+ individuals face unique challenges that often leave them feeling isolated in their struggles, including daily experiences of discrimination, homophobia, rejection, and harassment.

Many are also cut off from the support of family and friends. For some, substances offer a temporary escape or a way to numb emotional pain, a pattern known as self-medication, which ultimately causes more harm than relief. Additionally, substance use is prevalent in the LGBTQ+ community due to the party culture, which offers a means to release emotions and connect with others, creating a sense of belonging and a safe space to unwind.

But as a result, substance addiction is a prevalent issue. Popular substances of abuse among members of the LGBTQ+ community include:

Alcohol
Marijuana
Stimulants
Opioids
Prescription drugs

Addiction Resources for the LGBTQ+ Community

If you think you have a substance abuse problem, you aren’t alone in your struggle. There are many valuable resources for individuals in the LGBTQ+ community to offer you hope and support. Resources offer information, education, and human connection (such as support groups and hotlines).

Take a look at these resources that are specifically for LGBTQ+ people who battle substance addiction.

Gay & Sober – Sobriety resources and meeting directory for LGTBQ+ members in recovery programming for substance addiction
GaL-AA – Gays and Lesbians in Alcoholics Anonymous – GaL-AA is a resource for members of the LGBTQ+ community who participate in Alcoholics Anonymous for extra support to stay sober
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Intersex (LGBTQ+I+) – SAMHSA – SAMHSA has many programs and initiatives for people in the LGTBQ community and their loved ones.
Pride Institute – LGBTQ+ Addiction Treatment – The Pride Institute offers LGBTQ+-tailored addiction recovery programming

The LGBTQ+ Community and Mental Health

LGBTQ+ community members face mental health challenges at higher rates than heterosexual people. Anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, and substance use disorders (SUD) are three of the most common issues in this population. In fact, LGBTQ+ people are 2.5 times more likely to experience these issues than their straight peers. Co-occurring disorders are ones that occur simultaneously, like when an individual has a mental disorder or substance use disorder. They are common among LGBTQ+ individuals. Amongst this population, between 30 and 60 percent experience mood disorders like depression and anxiety. This statistic is 1.5 to 2.5 times higher than the prevalence amongst straight people. Other disorders they face include phobic disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and suicidality.

There are a number of experiences non-hetero people may encounter that can increase their risk of mental disorders. Common ones include family rejection, harassment or victimization, and discrimination. Such events, especially during childhood or adolescence, can lead to the development of mental illness. For instance, one study found that the mindset of perceived danger and homophobia in gay men increased their symptoms of depression.

Mental Health Resources for the LGBTQ+ Community

If you think you might have a mental health issue, these resources are for you. Even if you don’t think your mental health concerns are serious, it’s important that you get help. Mental health resources are for all people, whether they are diagnosed with a disorder or are facing struggles with stress and overwhelm.

These resources offer a sense of community and collaboration. Know you can turn to any of them for support.
Anti-Violence Project – AVP – A resource for LGBTQ+ members who have experienced violence or are affected by HIV
LGBTQ+ Crisis and Support Resources – American Foundation of Suicide Prevention – A list of hotlines, support services, and organizations that support the LGBTQ+ community and their mental health
The Trevor Project – The Trevor Project is a crisis prevention non-profit and suicide helpline for young LGBTQ+ members.
LGBT National Help Center – LGBT Hotline – A comprehensive resource for peer support, information, online programs, and national hotlines for the LGBTQ+ community and their loved ones
National Queer and Trans Therapists of Color Network – NQTTCN – A network of therapists and counselors for LGBTQ+, Black, Indigenous, and POC members
Human Rights Campaign – An organization dedicated to creating change for the LGBTQ+ community

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Where Else Can Members of the LGBTQ+ Community Go for Help?

In addition to resources for the LGBTQ+ community, professional treatment from a qualified provider can offer crucial support for those dealing with substance abuse and/or mental health issues. Co-occurring disorders often amplify each other, making it essential to treat both to prevent further harm. Rehab facilities like ours provide the care needed to address both challenges. At Footprints to Recovery, we offer LGBTQ+-specific programming with a trauma-focused approach. Our holistic recovery model includes therapy, counseling, and medication management, all within a non-judgmental and supportive environment. Our compassionate and experienced staff is dedicated to helping you heal from whatever you’re facing.

Don’t wait to learn more about recovery—your well-being matters, and you deserve the support you need. We’re here to help you find strength in overcoming substance abuse and mental health challenges today!