Understanding substance use disorders among LGBTQ+ teens

Context

Recent research has found that LGBTQ+ youth are statistically more likely than their straight classmates to use alcohol and drugs. There are a number of risk factors that are influencing these statistics and impacting our community, from bullying and harassment, family conflict and rejection, to stress, stereotyping, and peer influence. It is imperative that we understand the resources that are available to us if we or someone we know is navigating a substance use disorder.

Resources

What is substance use disorder?

This research page from John Hopkins Medicine describes what substance use disorder is, the substances that are often connected to misuse, and what causes a substance use disorder to develop.

What are the signs of a substance use disorder?

This self-assessment questionnaire developed by the American Addiction Center can be useful in determining for yourself whether you may be dependent on a substance.

Who can I talk to about substance misuse?

You can connect to a qualified counselor in a free and confidential call to discuss any of your questions, concerns, or feelings. These trained counselors can also refer you to resources in your area. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Hotline is available at any time and can be reached by calling 1–800–662–4357.

Where can I find in-person care?

If available to you, your school nurse or doctor can be a useful first point of contact to refer you to longer-term in-person care in your area. This MAPalso allows you to search the nearest LGBTQ-affirming treatment and rehabilitation center for substance misuse in your area.

Where I can find peer-to-peer support?

There are also a number of support groups for teens navigating substance use. While not specific to LGBTQ-youth, they are also here to support you.

Smart Recovery offers both in-person and online support groups with resources specific to young people navigating substance abuse recovery

Alcohol Anonymous offers information and programming specific to young people navigating alcohol misuse

Narcotics Anonymous offers information and programming specific to young people navigating narcotic misuse