THE OPIOID EPIDEMIC’S HIDDEN VICTIMS: HOW LGBTQ+ INDIVIDUALS ARE DISPROPORTIONATELY AFFECTED

THE OPIOID EPIDEMIC’S HIDDEN VICTIMS: HOW LGBTQ+ INDIVIDUALS ARE DISPROPORTIONATELY AFFECTED 

It appears that as long as mankind has been present on this earth, our species has sought several forms of escapism. A lot of times, this urge to escape manifests in the use of drugs. Whether it be marijuana, hallucinogenic drugs, or even opioids. The opioid epidemic has ravaged several countries across the world, leaving a trail of devastation in its staggering statistics, a critical story has remained hidden in plain sight: the disproportionate impact on LGBTQ+ people. This community faces several external traumas that put them at greater risk of addiction and overdose. Discrimination, stigma, and isolation can drive LGBTQ+ people to seek solace in substances, while limited access to inclusive healthcare and support services hinders their ability to find help. As a result, LGBTQ+ people are more likely to struggle with opioid use disorder and face dire consequences. It’s time to shed light on this overlooked crisis and confront the systemic issues that drive LGBTQ+ people to perpetuate it.

MINORITY STRESS: HOW STIGMA AND DISCRIMINATION CONTRIBUTE TO LGBTQ+ OPIOID ADDICTION

Starting at a young age, LGBTQ+ individuals face daily stigmatization, victimization and marginalization because of their sexual orientation and gender identities. The stress caused by such high levels of stigma can alter the individual’s psychological processes, including their ability to deal adaptively, manage emotions and maintain strong interpersonal relationships. The stigma can become internalized, resulting in identity concealment, self-hatred, feelings of worthlessness, and fear of rejection. To escape or mute these difficult emotions, some LGBTQ+ people turn to opioids, marijuana and other hallucinogens that provide a sense of relief.

THE ROLE OF INTERNALIZED HOMOPHOBIA IN LGBTQ+ OPIOID ADDICTION

In the LGBTQ+ community, a lot of people face triggering issues including internalized homophobia, regardless of whether their families or friends accept them. As a result of self-identifying with anti-gay or anti-lesbian stigmas, they experience this. This further results in their feeling uncomfortable and self-loathing under their own skin. They fall back on opioids as an effective mechanism for silencing the thoughts of internalized homophobia. With these drugs, they are able to live their true selves when they are high.

HOW HEALTHCARE DISPARITIES CONTRIBUTE TO LGBTQ+ ADDICTION

LGBTQ+ people are often denied healthcare services because of who they are or who they love. The discrimination and lack of access to affordable healthcare leaves many of them depressed and unable to look after their health. Without access to affordable care, they turn to opioid use as a coping mechanism for the stress and trauma they face. Even when they do have insurance, some healthcare facilities and professionals refuse to attend to them. Their health deteriorates day in and day out, and they keep falling back to opioid use. This cycle of suffering continues for a long time till they are unable to cope and eventually die.

HOW TO HELP AN LGBTQ+ INDIVIDUAL STRUGGLING WITH OPIOID ADDICTION

If you notice that your LGBTQ+ family member or friend is struggling with opioid use addiction, here are some ways you can help;

• Observe the person’s behavior for some days or weeks to determine what the reason could be (whether it be external trauma). This information will be useful if you choose to discuss the reason with other family members, seek professional help or speak directly to the person.
• Share your observations with other welcoming and accepting family members and friends to know how they see the situation. If they also agree that there is trauma, figure out who will speak to the person about getting help.
• Contact a substance use professional, counselor or mental health professional or other helping professional to help you. Be sure that whoever you are contacting is very welcoming and accepting, and non-discriminant of the LGBTQ+ community. Describe your loved one’s opioid use pattern to the person to see whether the professional would deem it a good reason for help. Provide details such as: type of opioid, how much the person is using, how long the pattern has continued, negative consequences, and the person’s response to discussions or confrontations about opioid use.
• Ensure that you and other of your family members and friends are safe from potential physical or emotional harm if the person shows signs of threat, or if there is possibility of physical violence.

 

CONCLUSION

As we confront the opioid epidemic’s devastating impact on LGBTQ+ people, we are reminded that addiction knows no boundaries, but neither does hope. By acknowledging the struggles and strengths of this community, we can tailor our support towards a more inclusive recovery. Although a difficult process to endure mentally, physically and emotionally, withdrawal is certainly worth it. If you or someone you love is struggling with opioid use disorder, know that help is within reach. Call 1-562-525-5501 or visit Pride Detox to connect without our support services designed specifically for LGBTQ+ people.  Every call, every conversation, and every connection can be a lifeline.