Understanding the relationship between the LGBTQ+ community and addiction

Jun 12
3 min read

Addiction can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, ethnicity or sexual orientation yet, research shows that members of the LGBTQ+ community experience higher rates of addiction compared to the general population.

Around one in six LGBTQ+ people said they drank alcohol almost every day
9% of the LGBTQ+ community in Britain took drugs at least once a month for a year compared to 2.6% of non-LGBTQ+ people
29% of lesbian and bisexual women binge drink at least once a week compared to 15% of non-LGBTQ+ women
59% of LGBTQ+ adults gambled in the past year
62% of transgender people report drinking outside of standard government guidelines to help them cope

*Of course, this data is unlikely to be fully representative or tell the full story.

Why are addiction rates higher in the LGBTQ+ community?

The reason behind this community’s relationship with addiction is complex and multi-faceted and of course, every individual has a unique story. Some significant contributing factors include:

Stress, anxiety and depression

Some LGBTQ+ people face minority stress – experiencing pressures such as discrimination, prejudice, rejection and stigma regularly. The resulting feelings of anxiety and depression can often lead people to look for a way to escape which can be satisfied in the short term through alcohol, substance use or the thrill of gambling. However, in the long term all these outlets cause mental health to decline, and an addictive cycle can often take hold.

Isolation

Being true to who you are can feel lonely. It can unfortunately isolate people from family and friends and have a negative impact on mental health. To cope with this feeling, some turn to addictive habits.

Social factors

Finding acceptance and belonging is important to everyone and for this community certain bars and clubs have become a haven. Whilst providing a welcoming social environment, increased exposure to alcohol and substances can, in some cases, lead to addictive behaviours.

Why do addictive substances and activities provide escapism?

The quest for escapism can be a reaction to pain and trauma. Some coping mechanisms are healthy such as spending time with loved ones, enjoying nature and exercise. These activities provide a real dose of dopamine – something our minds and bodies crave. Conversely, habits such as drinking alcohol, taking drugs and gambling provide an intense flood of fake dopamine, providing an immediate and effortless escape. However, this relief is always short-lived and in the long term worsens mental health struggles and causes people to chase that fake dopamine feeling, thus leading to addiction.

Difficulty seeking support

When you are part of a minority group it can be hard to reach out for help. Feelings of isolation, worries about confidentiality and fear of discrimination can all raise barriers between a person and the support they need. However, recovery is possible for everyone and talking to someone is the first important step to making a change.

What to do if you are worried about your addictive habits

Try feel-good activities such as exercise, a new hobby, spending time outdoors, volunteering and mindfulness
Connect with others - spend time with friends & family, join a new club to meet new people, attend your nearest Pride event
Be honest with yourself and identify triggers – whether it be stress, loneliness, anxiety or low mood. This can help address the root cause
Talk to someone you trust about how you are feeling
Seek support early

CADAS is a safe space for everyone

CADAS is a safe space for anyone impacted by addiction – adults, young people and affected others. We are a lived experience charity with around 70% of our trustees and staff having been affected by their own or someone else's harmful addictions. We approach all our service users with acceptance, compassion and empowerment and we are proud to help people across Cumbria.

Helpline: 0800 254 5658 (available weekdays 9am-5pm)

Email: contact@cadas.co.uk

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