Why American LGBTQ Teens Are More Likely to Abuse Drugs

Extensive research spanning decades has revealed a concerning trend: LGBTQ+ teens face a significantly higher risk of substance abuse compared to their heterosexual peers. A 2008 study highlighted this disparity, indicating that LGBTQ+ teens were, on average, 190% more likely to engage in substance abuse than heterosexual youth.1 This alarming correlation between sexual orientation and substance use among adolescents demands attention and targeted support.

Why Are Teens Using Drugs?

Illicit drug use in adolescents has dropped in recent years. 31% of adolescents admitted to using drugs in 2001. This figure fell to 24% in 2009, and it reached only 20% in 2017. These statistics show that teens are now more aware of the dangers of drugs than before.  

But you might be wondering why teens abuse drugs in the first place. Well, adolescents experiment with drugs for several reasons, including:

• To experiment – Adolescents are often trying to find new pleasurable experiences, particularly those they perceive as daring or thrilling. Many adolescents experiment with alcohol and/or drugs at one point in their lives.
• To fit in – Adolescents might use drugs because they fear being rejected by their drug-using peers if they don’t.
• To feel euphoria – Drugs interact with the brain, leading to feelings of euphoria. The intensity of the euphoria experienced is different for every drug and individual.
• To feel better – Some adolescents are unhappy and they use drugs to feel better. Teens suffer from physical pain, stress-related disorders, anxiety, and depression, just like adults. According to a study published in February 2019, 2.3 million adolescents aged 12 – 17 suffered at least one major depressive episode in 2017.² This number represented 9.4% of the entire U.S. population of that age.
• To perform better – Teens live in a very competitive society, in which their athletic and academic performances might influence the rest of their lives. Some adolescents use certain drugs in an attempt to enhance or improve their performances.

Are LGBTQ Teens More Likely To Abuse Drugs?

LGBTQ teens are often stigmatized, harassed, or even rejected by their families and peers. The stress brought on by these events might wrongly convince sexual minority teens that using drugs can be an effective coping mechanism.

A study published in 2018 showed that LGBTQ teens are 12% more likely to abuse drugs than their heterosexual peers.³ LGBTQ youth were also three times more likely to experiment with drugs such as ecstasy, cocaine, methamphetamines, or heroin.

Unfortunately, even experimentation with these drugs can derail an adolescent’s life and negatively influence their future.

How Can You Act?

Supporting an LGBTQ+ teen who’s struggling with substance use requires a multifaceted approach. Open communication, creating a safe and accepting environment, and seeking professional guidance are vital steps.

Here are some valuable resources that can help:

• The Trevor Project: This organization provides crisis support and suicide prevention services specifically for LGBTQ+ youth.
• SAMHSA’s National Helpline: SAMHSA offers confidential support and referrals to treatment centers.
• GLSEN: This organization works to create safe and inclusive K-12 schools for LGBTQ+ students.

Remember, recovery is possible. By combining family support, professional help, and community resources, LGBTQ+ teens can overcome addiction and thrive.