Substance Abuse and LGBTQ People

This entry examines substance use among LGBTQ individuals. To illustrate trends of substance use within these populations, prevalence rates are presented. Mood-altering substances commonly used within these populations are described. Next, explanations for the disproportionate rates of substance use among LGBTQ individuals are discussed. The entry concludes with a review of LGBTQ-affirming substance abuse treatment.

Prevalence Rates

Lifetime prevalence of substance use disorders among the general U.S. public is approximately 14.6%. Research focused on substance use among lesbians and gay and bisexual men is limited. Even less is known about substance use among bisexual women and transgender individuals. Overwhelmingly, studies show substance use to be disproportionately higher among LGBTQ individuals than their heterosexual counterparts.

Although LGBTQ people share experiences of societal stigma and oppression, as it relates to ...

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