In 1978, Gilbert Baker designed the first rainbow flag at the request of Harvey Milk — the first openly gay man to be elected to office in the United States. The flag made its debut at the San Francisco Gay Freedom Day Parade that same year, and quickly became a symbol of pride, unity, and diversity for the LGBTQIA+ community. For those who aren’t familiar, LGBTQIA+ stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, intersex, and asexual with the “+” symbol at the end signifying that there are many other gender identities and sexual orientations that are not specifically listed within the acronym. Pride Month is a time to recognize the resilience, strength, and wide spectrum of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Pride Month is a time to recognize the struggles the LGBTQIA+ community faces. Unfortunately, these individuals face disproportionately high rates of Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) and mental health challenges compared to their heterosexual and cisgender counterparts. According to The Trevor Project’s 2023 U.S. National Survey on the Mental Health of LGBTQ Young People, 67% of LGBTQIA+ aged 13 to 24 reported experiencing symptoms of anxiety, and 54% reported symptoms of depression. Alarmingly, 41% seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year, with rates even higher among transgender and nonbinary youth.
These mental health challenges are exacerbated by external factors. The same survey found that 60% of LGBTQIA+ young people reported feeling discriminated against due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. Additionally, nearly one in three said their mental health was poor most of the time or always due to anti-LGBTQ policies and legislation.
Consequently, SUDs are also more prevalent in the LGBTQIA+ community — predominantly as a way to cope with mental health struggles. Data from the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health indicated that more than one in eight male youths and one in seven female youths had a drug use disorder — rates significantly higher than their heterosexual peers. Transgender and gender-diverse individuals face similar challenges. A study published in the journal Substance Abuse Treatment, Prevention, and Policy highlighted that LGBTQIA+ individuals have higher rates of opioid use and disorders, as well as co-use of stimulants and other similar substances. Despite the heightened need, LGBTQIA+ individuals often encounter obstacles when seeking mental health and substance use treatment. Approximately 8% of LGBTQ+ individuals and nearly 27% of transgender individuals reported being denied needed health care outright. Stigma, lack of cultural sensitivity, and discrimination within healthcare settings further hinder access to effective care, underscoring the need for accessible mental health services.
At Hickory Recovery Network, we recognize the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community with mental health and substance use. We are committed to providing compassionate, customized, and evidence-based care for all. If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out to Hickory Recovery Network today at 800-604-2117. Our team is available 24/7 to assist you in paving the path toward healing. You are never alone.
