Substance use disorder is rampant in the United States. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 19.7 million Americans (aged 12 and older) battled a substance use disorder in 2017.
Prevalence Among LGBT+ Community
Due to increased social stigma, discrimination and a much higher risk of being victims of harassment and violence, substance use disorder is especially high among the LGBT+ population. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) estimates that 20% - 30% of the LGBT+ population has experienced substance use disorder compared to about 9% of the general population.
According to Human Rights Campaign, LGBT+ teens may be more than two times as likely to be bullied, excluded or assaulted at school. They’re also 40% less likely to have an adult at home in whom they can confide or ask for help and twice as likely to turn to drugs and alcohol, which can lead to a lifetime of struggling with substance use disorder.
It is important that family and friends of LGBT+ people understand the signs of substance use disorder and to offer nonjudgmental help and a pathway to support and sobriety. Look for signs such as frequently missing school or work, changes in behavior toward family or friends, loss of energy/motivation, neglecting physical appearance/hygiene, financial trouble and physical symptoms such as red eyes, sudden weight gain or loss and lack of appetite.
Getting the Right Treatment
Current research from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, says treatments need to address the unique factors in LGBT+ patients' lives that may lead to substance use disorder. Factors that may include homophobia/transphobia, family problems, violence and feelings of social isolation.
Gay and bisexual individuals report experiencing mental distress and depression more often than their heterosexual counterparts. Transgender children and adolescents have higher levels of depression, thoughts and attempts of suicide, self-harm and eating disorders than non-transgender children. This all means that it is critical that LGBT+ people in substance use disorder treatment get assessed for other psychiatric problems and are treated for all conditions at the same time.
Infusion/Medication Options
Revan Health offers NAD+ IV therapy infusions, which help with detox and withdrawal symptoms. Additionally, we advocate for naltrexone, disulfiram and other medications to help with addiction and withdrawal. We are here to help monitor our patients’ overall health and refer them to appropriate mental health professionals, support groups and treatment centers as needed.
If you are struggling with substance use disorder, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Our partner, The Diversity Center of Oklahoma is a great place to start to find the support you need.
Revan Health provides welcoming, respectful family medicine for all from infants to geriatrics. We understand the pain and frustration that comes with not feeling heard by your family care provider. We believe access to respectful care is key to improving medicine adherence and overall life satisfaction for our patients. Like us on Facebook or visit us at revanhealth.com.
Treatment Resources
https://findtreatment.samhsa.gov/
SAMHSA National Helpline 1-800-662-4357