Addiction and alcoholism affect individuals across all lines of age, race, sexual identity, religion, and socio-economic status. An estimated 88,000 deaths each year are related to alcohol use and the LGBTQ+ community is especially vulnerable.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), studies show that gay and bisexual men, lesbian, and transgender individuals are more likely to use alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs.
Lack of acceptance is one reason that young members of the LGBTQ+ community often battle mental health challenges. They often turn to drugs and alcohol to help lesson emotional stress and fear of rejection from family and friends. Other stressors, such as fear of harassment, discrimination, and violence, further increase the risk for sexual minorities to suffer from mental and behavioral health issues.
June is Pride Month to support equal rights for those who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community and encourage greater acceptance in society at large. Family acceptance can help decrease the risk of suicide, depression, and substance abuse for LGBTQ+ youth.
Learn more and find resources from Mental Health America at https://mhanational.org/pride
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