![]() ![]() Research has found an association between victimization against LGBTQ+ students in schools and increased likelihood of substance misuse. Physical and verbal harassment toward LGBTQ+ youth – often in school settings – takes a significant toll on mental health. Up to 40% of the homeless youth population identify as LGBTQ+, and this population uses substances at a higher rate and more frequently than other homeless youth. LGBTQ+ youth are at heightened risk of experiencing homelessness due to family rejection, which puts them at significant risk for using substances. Social anxietyĪnxiety among LGBTQ+ youth in social situations, such as when they first begin socializing within the community or when they are around others who may not be accepting of their identity, can fuel substance use. Research from the Family Acceptance Project found that sexual minority young adults who experience family rejection during adolescence are more than three times as likely to use illicit drugs as those who are accepted by their family. A poor relationship can interfere with the type of open and honest communication that protects against substance use. Parents and caregivers are the biggest influence on their children’s decisions to use nicotine, alcohol or other drugs. LGBTQ+ youth often encounter additional circumstances – likewise stemming from stigma and a lack of acceptance – that increase their risk for substance use. Research conducted by the Human Rights Campaign explores the greater challenges faced by transgender youth and the consequences of growing up in unsupportive home, school or social environment. ![]() One research study shows that transgender youth have a 2.5 to 4 times higher risk of substance use relative to their cisgender peers. Transgender youth face even higher levels of stigmatization and discrimination, corresponding to higher rates of mental health challenges and suicidality. ![]() Special considerations for transgender youth Being LGBTQ+ is not a mental illness, nor is it a choice, and should not be referred to as such. The heightened risk comes from the stigma and discrimination they face as a result of their sexual orientation and/or gender identity. Note that being LGBTQ+ is not inherently a risk factor for experiencing a mental health or substance use disorder. Approximately 60-75% or adolescents with mental illness have a co-occurring substance use disorder. Youth who suffer from one are more likely to experience the other. Mental health and substance use disorders are linked. Sexual minority youth are also at increased risk of using multiple substances (polysubstance use), which exacerbates the harms. Youth who identify as a sexual minority (LGBTQ+) are about twice as likely to use substances as youth identifying as heterosexual. The fact that LGBTQ+ youth are at increased risk of experiencing mental health problems helps explain their increased risk of substance use and addiction. A 2019 national survey of mental health among LGBTQ+ youth found they continue to face numerous mental health challenges despite societal progress. LGBTQ+ individuals are about twice as likely to suffer from a mental health disorder as those who identify as heterosexual.
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