People cope with hardships in many ways. Some methods may be helpful but only provide temporary relief. Take alcohol consumption as an example. At first, it seems like everything’s under control – alcohol eases the pain, and life somehow feels more manageable. However, this honeymoon phase doesn’t last forever. Relying heavily on alcohol as a coping mechanism can lead to the development of alcohol use disorder (AUD).
It’s a well-known fact that many people in LGBTQ+ communities face certain obstacles in adapting to a society that – depending on its cultural norms – isn’t always so welcoming. Some of them may turn to substances or alcohol as a way to cope with their pain on a personal level when broader acceptance simply feels out of reach. If you know someone like that, someone considering alcohol recovery or is already there, this one’s for you.
Today, we’ll explore how to support LGBTQ+ friends through alcohol recovery. Stay tuned!
Understanding the scope of alcohol use
To understand the importance of discussing alcohol addiction within LGBTQ+ communities, we should first consider the available data: what do we know about alcohol consumption among LGBTQ+ individuals?
According to this study on gender, sexual orientation, and alcohol use, research shows higher rates of alcohol use and related concerns among individuals belonging to LGBTQ+ communities compared to their cisgender, heterosexual peers, with the gap being more significant between LGBTQ+ women and heterosexual women than between men (men, regardless of orientation, tend to consume more alcohol on average).
What about cultural/geographical distribution?
While there’s still a lack of research on alcohol use by LGBTQ+ individuals in many parts of the world (particularly in lower- and middle-income countries), understanding how alcohol use impacts LGBTQ+ individuals and why they can be vulnerable to it is crucial for guiding effective support, wherever these individuals happen to be.
Why is alcohol abuse more prevalent in LGBTQ+ individuals?
Several factors might explain these differences, and understanding them – as we said – is key to better prevention, treatment efforts, and support.
An indirect consequence of discrimination
The unique struggle with alcohol use people in LGBTQ+ communities face is deeply tied to the discrimination they endure, sometimes on a daily level. This stigma is especially tough for older LGBTQ+ individuals or those living in areas that tend to be less accepting. The constant bigotry they’re surrounded by often leads to (severe) emotional pain, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Thus, some LGBTQ+ people tend to self-medicate using alcohol. This self-medication often only worsens the negative feelings and creates a harmful cycle of increased drinking and dependency.
A bit of history
Throughout the 20th century, alcohol was one of the key elements of some LGBTQ+ cultures. For many years, gay bars were among the few places where LGBTQ+ people could freely express their identities and feel safe while doing so. Drinking often became central to socializing within LGBTQ+ communities. Many key moments in the history of LGBTQ+ communities, like the revolutionary Stonewall Riots, are tied to these spaces. Unfortunately, there is a bad side: all of the above led to a normalization of heavy drinking within some communities, more so than in the general population.
A genuine lack of support systems
On top of everything, many LGBTQ+ individuals lack the support systems that are often available to cisgender, heterosexual individuals. Here’s one of the more obvious examples: even though being a part of LGBTQ+ communities doesn’t automatically make you an atheist, faith-based groups often exclude them; LGBTQ+ people may have to hide their true selves to participate. Additionally, many LGBTQ+ individuals may lose family support after coming out, and LGBTQ+ youth are particularly vulnerable, with some ending up unhoused after being rejected by their families.
Supporting LGBTQ+ friends through alcohol recovery
Let’s remember the tune of that good old Beatles number, “With a Little Help from My Friends,” and explore how you, as a friend, can support your LGBTQ+ loved one(s) through their journey to alcohol recovery.
Help them seek and find proper treatment
Just like anyone else with alcohol use, LGBTQ+ individuals might struggle with the decision to seek recovery. There are many reasons. Because of the nature of addiction, it can be incredibly hard to even imagine quitting, regardless of the fact that alcohol is deteriorating their health (addiction often means drinking despite knowing the harm it causes). You can talk to your LGBTQ+ friends who are struggling with addiction. Help them understand the impact it’s having on themselves and those around them (while, of course, keeping an open mind and avoiding judgment).
Additionally, you can introduce them to various alcohol treatment options. Help them see that there are many kinds of treatment, and not all involve a 24/7 stay at a rehab center. For instance, if their situation’s not so alarming, they might consider partial hospitalization programs, as they often require hospital care for a minimum of 3 to 5 days a week, 4 to 6 hours a day.
Let them know you’re always there
Now, while we’ve all heard the phrase “Call me if you need me” and instantly thought, “Okay, yeah, right.” It’s important to show your LGBTQ+ friends in alcohol recovery that you genuinely mean it. Ensure that your words and actions are sincere. They should know you’re truly there for them if they need someone to talk to or hang out with.
Learn more about alcohol use and your friends’ unique experiences as LGBTQ+ individuals
To be a better support, you can start by learning about alcohol use and what leads to addiction (you’ve already done a little by reading this article). If your friends are open to it, talk to them about their struggles and what might have contributed to their situation. You may learn more about their alcohol use, your friends’ distinct experiences as LGBTQ+ people through these discussions, and a variety of “offline” (meaning books) and online resources.
Conclusion
Supporting LGBTQ+ friends through alcohol recovery is a vital commitment. You’ll need to help them stay on track, and it might be challenging at times. However, you can offer the best support possible with love and understanding. It’s highly important to remain patient and non-judgemental and always remember that you can make a great difference in their path to healing.
Author’s bio:
Pat Crilley is the Executive Director at Harmony Ridge Recovery Center. When he’s not ensuring his center’s operations run smoothly, he enjoys taking time to craft articles that can serve as a guiding light in the dark.
