The LGBTQ community continues to evolve with how they enter the world. While most people focus on accepting their new identity, for many this is not the case. Significant swaths of the community’s population struggle to accept their true identities and are often forced to cling to traditional understandings.
The emotional pain, mental anguish and isolation it causes often force healthy people to seek refuge in substance and alcohol addiction. Certain Los Angeles sober living centers are dedicated to helping people in the community reclaim their lives, identify and find purpose in life. However, it is important to understand that LGBTQ people often experience harsh judgment from society, rejection from family and peers, and bullying.
Here are more reasons for these conditions:
early emotional trauma
People begin to realize that they are “different” from childhood. This feeling is often uncomfortable for many people, considering that most people don’t understand why their bodies feel “alien” and why they are unable to see and express themselves in the same way as others.
Parents are often aware of the discomfort and behavioral changes their children are experiencing but don’t know how to handle this sensitive conversation, causing tension within the family. As a result, individuals end up growing up feeling neglected, unwanted, and misunderstood.
Stressful life situations
Most closeted people live under tremendous pressure, fearing that their true identity will emerge at any time and be rejected by society. Fear persists regardless of an individual’s age and location. Most people must work hard to hide their true selves to prevent their identity from being revealed.
It could be dressing according to gender norms, not engaging in relationship-related discussions, or feeling uncomfortable with physical contact (such as hugging). Covering up one’s true identity and suppressing emotions ultimately causes stress in the individual, making them susceptible to using alcohol and other substances to manage their health.
party lifestyle
As a way to connect and socialize with like-minded people, networking becomes an important part of an individual’s LGBTQ life. Unfortunately, most of these parties are also targeted by people with malicious intent who try to attract individuals by offering support, pretending to understand their concerns, and providing a shoulder to cry on.
Over time, disadvantaged people are exposed to substances and alcohol as a way to fit into society and find their voice. In fact, MDMA, GHB, ketamine, methamphetamine and other substances are widely present in these parties and can easily attract new members to consume.
internalized homophobia
Unfortunately, homophobia is a common problem faced by many members of the LGBTQ community. Hatred and rejection can come from family, friends, or even relatives. When a person is continually subjected to such negative and stressful experiences, they eventually internalize their hatred of themselves.
It may include indulging in self-harm, not eating healthy meals on a regular basis, or relying on substances or alcohol to punish yourself. Internalized homophobia prevents a person from seeing themselves with love and kindness. Religious beliefs, family and upbringing, influences, media coverage, and stereotypes are common reasons behind this internal self-disregard.
lack of support
Many people choose to remain anonymous for fear of being discriminated against, mistreated or rejected by family, friends and society at large. Lack of support and neglect can force a person to hide their reality while integrating into a community filled with members who are going through similar experiences.
Substance and alcohol use ends up being part of a coping mechanism and an element of bonding. The situation becomes complicated when abuse and emotional neglect are involved.
bottom line
Unfortunately, addiction among LGBTQ people is a serious concern for many families. The stigma surrounding both of these subjects often results in individuals not knowing where to seek refuge when feeling lost or in need of support and love. However, it is important to realize that help is available and there is no shame in seeking support when you need it.
