During Pride Month in June, the focus is on how to better support health and wellbeing for the LGBTQ+ community. LGBTQ+ youth may experience stress that their heterosexual peers do not. This can stem from concerns that family and friends will not accept them, harassment at school or in the workplace, or anti-LGBTQ+ legislation passed across the country.
Often, youth may turn to substance use as a way to cope with these stressors. Statistics from The Trevor Project show that in 2021, nearly half of LGBTQ+ youth under age 21 surveyed used alcohol in the past year.
Families can best support their LGBTQ+ loved ones by making sure they know they are loved, accepted, and supported - no matter what. Try actively listening to their concerns and taking an interest in their life. Find affinity groups and other activities to connect them to the community. When help is needed, assist them in finding mental healthcare and treatment for substance use. These actions can help significantly decrease an LGBTQ+ teen's likelihood of substance use and improve their mental health.
Partnership to End Addiction offers helpful resources to learn more about
how to be a stronger ally in support of loved ones in the LGBTQ+ community
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